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Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Beijing Beef

Name: Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Beijing Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound flank steak (thinly sliced against the grain); 1/4 cup cornstarch; 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 tablespoons sugar; 1 tablespoon garlic (minced); 1 teaspoon ginger (minced); 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (cornstarch slurry); 1 bell pepper (cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 onion (cut into bite-sized pieces); 2 teaspoons olive oil (for sautéing); 1 teaspoon Red chili flakes (optional, for added heat)

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: July 21, 2025

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This Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Beijing Beef recipe delivers crispy, tender beef coated in a bold, sweet-and-tangy sauce—all made easily at home without deep frying. With red bell peppers and onions tossed in a flavorful glaze, it’s a lighter, faster version of the takeout favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Plate of crispy air fryer Beijing beef with red peppers and tangy sauce.

Copycat Panda Express Beijing Beef is the perfect homemade alternative to your favorite takeout dish—crispy strips of beef tossed in a bold, sweet-and-tangy sauce with just the right amount of heat.

Made in the air fryer for a lighter twist, this dish still delivers that signature crunch without deep frying. Paired with sautéed red bell peppers and onions, it’s a fast and flavorful dinner that tastes just like the original, only fresher and more budget-friendly. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal your whole family will love.

Air fryer Beijing beef with red bell peppers and onions in a glossy sauce.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

Crispy Without Deep Frying – The air fryer gives you that crunchy texture with less oil.
Bold Takeout-Style Flavor – Sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy just like Panda Express.
Quick Weeknight Dinner – Ready in under 30 minutes from prep to plate.
Family-Friendly Favorite – Kids and adults alike will love the saucy beef and veggies.
Budget-Friendly and Better Than Takeout – Skip the drive-thru and save money with homemade flavor.

Panda Express Beijing Beef Ingredients

Ingredients needed for Air Fryer Copycat Panda Express Beijing Beef on kitchen table.

Flank steak: Lean, tender beef slices ideal for quick air frying.
Cornstarch: Light coating creates a crispy texture when air fried.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance and balance the beef flavor.
Soy sauce: Salty, umami-rich base that defines the savory flavor.
Hoisin sauce: Thick, sweet-savory sauce adds bold Asian flavor.
Oyster sauce: Deep, savory richness with subtle seafood undertones.
Rice vinegar: Brings tangy brightness to balance the sweet sauce.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce perfectly.
Garlic: Infuses the sauce with rich, savory aroma.
Ginger: Sharp, zesty flavor that adds warmth and depth.
Bell pepper: Crunchy, sweet veggie that adds color and freshness.
Onion: Savory bite that pairs well with beef and sauce.
Red chili flakes: Spicy kick for those who like extra heat.

How To Make Panda Express Beijing Beef

Add diced flank steak in a large mixing bowl.

Step 1: Start by seasoning your thinly sliced flank steak with salt and pepper. Then, toss the beef in cornstarch until each piece is well-coated. This will help create that crispy exterior we all love.

Coat the diced flank steak with cornstarch, and toss well to coat.

Step 2: Preheat your air fryer temperature to 380 degrees F (193°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or brush it with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the beef slices in a single layer—work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Set cook time for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the beef is browned and crispy on the edges.

Place coated beef into the air fryer basket.

Step 3: While the beef is cooking, make the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, minced garlic, and ginger. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Once it starts to bubble, stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water). Continue stirring until the sauce thickens into a glossy glaze. Remove from heat and set aside.

Cooked Copycat Panda Express Beijing Beef in the air fryer basket.

Step 4: In a large skillet or wok, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Add the bell pepper and onion, and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, or until just tender but still vibrant.

Step 5: Add the crispy air-fried beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the thickened sauce over everything, and toss to coat the beef and veggies evenly. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red chili flakes to taste.

Crispy air fryer Beijing beef with peppers in glossy sauce on a plate.

Beijing Beef Panda Express Recipe Tips

Slice the beef thinly against the grain: This ensures tender, easy-to-chew pieces after cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: Cook beef in batches for even crispiness and proper airflow.
Use cornstarch for a crispy coating: It creates that signature crunchy texture without deep frying.
Make the sauce ahead of time: Prepare and refrigerate the sauce to save time on busy nights.
Sauté veggies just until tender: Keep bell peppers and onions crisp-tender for the best texture contrast.
Adjust the spice level: Add red chili flakes or sriracha if you prefer more heat.
Serve immediately: Beijing beef is best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness and flavor.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storing: Store leftover Beijing beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the best texture.
Freezing: Freeze cooked beef and vegetables in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Alternatively, warm in the microwave covered to keep moisture.

Crispy air fryer Beijing beef with bell peppers and onions in glossy sauce.

What To Serve With Beijing Beef From Panda Express

Panda Express Beijing Beef pairs perfectly with steamed white or jasmine rice, which soaks up the flavorful, tangy sauce beautifully. For a complete meal, add a side of simple stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy to balance the richness of the beef. You can also serve it with fried rice or lo mein for a heartier takeout-style dinner that’s easy to make at home.

Beijing Beef From Panda Express Recipe Faqs

Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, flank steak works best for tenderness, but sirloin or skirt steak can also be used if sliced thinly.

Do I have to use an air fryer? No, you can also pan-fry or oven-bake the beef, though the air fryer gives the crispiest results with less oil.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Absolutely! The sauce can be prepared and refrigerated for up to a week, making weeknight dinners quicker.

Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to include mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots to bulk up the dish.

How do I make it spicier? Add red chili flakes or a splash of sriracha when combining the beef and sauce for extra heat.

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