IHOP Steak Tips Recipe

Juicy, caramelized steak tips drenched in a rich glaze? This recipe is the reason IHOP’s steak tips are just SO good!

One secret here is the marinade packed with Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and garlic gives the meat an incredible balance of sweet and savory.

Cooking the steak tips over high heat locks in all the juices while creating that beautifully browned crust.

Using sirloin instead of tougher cuts helps keep every piece soft and easy to chew.

These steak tips get eaten up quickly, especially when you serve them with buttery mashed potatoes or grilled onions!

How to Make IHOP’s Steak Tips

Ingredients

• 1 lb Beef Sirloin (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1/2 cup Coca Cola
• 3 tbsp Soy Sauce
• 2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Onion (sliced)
• 1 Green Bell Pepper (sliced)
• 1 Red Bell Pepper (sliced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Combine beef sirloin pieces with Coca Cola, soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper in a bowl.

Marinate in the fridge for at least one hour.

This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, making it tender and flavorful.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper.

Sauté until they are soft and onions are translucent.

Step 3:

Remove the marinated beef from the fridge and drain it, discarding the marinade.

Add the beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables.

Cook the beef, stirring often until fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.

Step 4:

Reduce heat to low and ensure the beef and veggies are well combined.

Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

This helps meld the savory flavors together beautifully.

Step 5:

Serve these steak tips hot alongside your choice of sides.

They’re fantastic with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Marinate Longer for Richer Flavor

If you marinate the beef overnight, the flavors will be even more pronounced.

Planning ahead can make a big difference in the taste.

Cut Vegetables Evenly

Ensure vegetables are cut evenly to cook at the same rate.

That way, you avoid any pieces being over or underdone.

Let the Beef Rest

After cooking, let the beef rest for a few minutes before serving.

This allows the juices to redistribute and offers you a juicier bite.

Use Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh bell peppers and onions enhances the taste significantly.

Their natural sweetness complements the savory steak perfectly!

Adjust the Heat

If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or fresh chopped chilies.

Adjusting spices can tailor the dish to your preference.

What to Serve with IHOP Steak Tips Recipe

Classic Rice Pilaf

When serving IHOP steak tips, you can’t go wrong with a classic rice pilaf.

The fluffy texture and mild flavor of rice pilaf perfectly balance the rich, savory goodness of the steak tips.

It’s simple to make, and you can even prepare it ahead of time!

Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach offers a lovely creamy contrast to the hearty steak tips.

The creaminess adds richness without overwhelming the palate.

A warm serving of creamed spinach is truly comforting alongside steak tips.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a fantastic way to bring an earthy flavor to your plate.

When roasted to perfection, they have a lovely crispy texture that complements the soft steak tips.

Feel free to add a sprinkle of Parmesan for a cheesy touch!

Grilled Pineapple

For something unexpected, try serving grilled pineapple with your steak tips.

The sweetness of pineapple marries beautifully with the savory and sweet marinade of the steak.

A quick grill session enhances its flavors and adds a delicious char.

Saffron Couscous

Saffron couscous is another excellent side dish for those who love a hint of exotic flavor.

The light, fluffy texture of couscous goes great with steak tips, and the saffron gives it a unique aromatic twist.

It’s also quick to prepare, making it a fantastic last-minute option.

Variations and Substitutions

Alternative Vinegar Options

If you’re out of red wine vinegar, don’t worry about a thing.

Half the amount of sherry vinegar works fantastically in your mix and you’ll love the unique flavor it brings.

Sauce Swaps

Switching Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce is an excellent option.

You can use equal parts, which maintains the balance within your recipe.

Different Protein Choices

For a unique twist, try substituting with tofu for more plant-based goodness.

If you’re using tofu, make sure you scramble it well so it absorbs the flavors beautifully.

Low-Sugar Tweaks

Hold onto this tip if you’re watching your sugar intake.

Using maple syrup as a sugar substitute can seamlessly fit into your dish while keeping things sweet and flavorful.

Zero-sugar Coke also makes a fun ingredient switch, which mixes well with your steak tips.

Isn’t it exciting to try these variations?

How to Store Leftover IHOP Steak Tips

Storing leftovers properly is key to keeping them safe and delicious for later enjoyment.

You’ll want to cool those juicy steak tips promptly after serving.

Let them sit at room temperature only long enough to cool slightly, ideally no more than two hours.

Cooling and Container Usage

To maximize freshness, transfer the steak tips to an airtight container.

Air-tight containers help prevent bacteria and keep flavors from mixing with other foods in your fridge.

Glass containers with tight-fitting lids work well.

Refrigeration Timeline

Once your steak tips are secured, place the container in the fridge.

Keep them refrigerated at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius) to maintain quality.

You can safely store the leftovers for up to three to four days.

Freezing for Longevity

If you don’t plan to eat them soon, you can freeze the steak tips.

Use a freezer-safe bag, press out excess air, and label it with the date.

Frozen steak tips can last up to two to three months for the best taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Meat

One common mistake is leaving the steak tips on the heat for too long, which results in a tough, dry texture.

It’s crucial to know the desired doneness and keep a close eye on the cooking time.

Always remove the tips from heat a bit before they’re done since they’ll continue to cook from residual heat.

Ignoring Marinade Time

Many people fail to marinate long enough, resulting in bland steak tips.

Allow at least a couple of hours, or ideally overnight, for the marinade to infuse its flavors into the meat.

This step enhances the taste significantly, so don’t skip or rush it!

Choosing the Wrong Cut

Selecting the wrong steak cut makes it harder to achieve tender, juicy results with your steak tips.

Go for cuts like sirloin or ribeye to ensure tenderness and flavor.

Avoid tougher cuts unless you plan to marinate for an extended period or use a tenderizing technique.