Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Discover a simple, flavorful Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot recipe perfect for busy days. This dish combines tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce that slowly melds together during hours of gentle cooking, resulting in a comforting meal that’s packed with taste and incredibly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss all ingredients in the crock pot and let it do the work while you focus on your day.
• Tender, Juicy Steak: Slow cooking guarantees melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s bursting with flavor.
• Vibrant Vegetables: Colorful bell peppers add both freshness and crunch, enhancing the dish’s texture.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch for leftovers or freeze portions for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Simple flavors everyone loves, making it a go-to comfort food for any age.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each component plays a key role in balancing flavors, from tender beef to the sweetness of the peppers and the savory sauce that ties everything together.

• Beef sirloin or flank steak: Thinly sliced for quick, even cooking and a tender bite.
• Bell peppers: Use a mix of red, green, and yellow for color and natural sweetness.
• Onion: Adds depth and mild pungency to enrich the sauce.
• Beef broth: Creates a rich base for the slow-cooked sauce and keeps the meat moist.
• Soy sauce: For umami and salty balance, elevating the overall savory profile.
• Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and complexity.
• Black pepper: The star seasoning that delivers the signature kick to the dish.
• Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce, giving it that perfect glaze-like consistency.
• Olive oil or vegetable oil: For browning the steak before slow cooking, boosting flavor.

Variations for Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Customizing your Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a breeze! Whether you prefer to add extra veggies or tailor it to fit dietary needs, this recipe welcomes changes while maintaining its hearty appeal.

• Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery version.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute beef with portobello mushrooms or tofu for a meatless variety.
• Low sodium: Use a reduced-sodium soy sauce and broth to cut down on salt.
• Sweet and tangy: Incorporate a splash of pineapple juice or a tablespoon of honey for a subtle sweetness.
• Additional veggies: Toss in snap peas, carrots, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

How to Make Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by thinly slicing your beef against the grain for maximum tenderness. Chop the bell peppers into strips and slice the onion so everything is ready to layer into the crock pot.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat a bit of oil in a skillet and quickly sear the beef strips just until browned on the edges—this step enhances the flavor with a delicious caramelized crust.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Place the browned beef, bell peppers, and onions in the crock pot. In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, and cornstarch to create the sauce, then pour over the ingredients.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours. The slow heat lets the flavors meld together perfectly and ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender without drying out.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Before serving, give the mixture a gentle stir to coat everything evenly in the flavorful sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then dig in!

Pro Tips for Making Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

• Slice beef thinly: This prevents toughness and helps cooking evenly throughout the slow process.
• Don’t skip browning: It adds depth and more complex flavor to your finished dish.
• Add cornstarch last: Thickening the sauce towards the end provides the perfect silky texture.
• Use fresh vegetables: For the best flavor and color, avoid canned or frozen when possible.
• Keep lid closed: Resist the urge to peek during cooking to maintain steady heat and timing.

How to Serve Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions or a handful of chopped cilantro on top to brighten the flavors and add a fresh pop of color.

Side Dishes

This pepper steak goes beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, fluffy mashed potatoes, or even simple buttered noodles to soak up that savory sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For an unexpected but delightful twist, serve the pepper steak over a bed of quinoa or cauliflower rice. Alternatively, stuff it inside warm pita bread for a satisfying sandwich flavor experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer leftover pepper steak into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days, which helps preserve flavor and tenderness.

Freezing

This dish freezes exceptionally well—portion it out into freezer-safe containers and enjoy within 2 to 3 months for optimal taste and quality.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much, to keep it moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot?

Yes! Cuts like chuck roast or round steak work well because slow cooking breaks down tough fibers to yield tender meat.

Is it necessary to brown the steak before slow cooking?

While optional, browning adds flavor and a beautiful color contrast that enhances the final dish.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead?

Absolutely! Use the sauté function to brown the beef first, then pressure cook on high for about 20 minutes.

How spicy is this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot?

The basic recipe has a mild black pepper kick that can be easily adjusted by adding more pepper or chili if you like heat.

What can I serve with Pepper Steak for a balanced meal?

Pair it with a side of steamed greens or a simple salad alongside rice or noodles for a filling, nutritious plate.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the ease and warmth of Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot to make busy days feel a little more special. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you get a homemade meal that’s tender, flavorful, and full of comforting goodness. Give this recipe a try and watch it become your new slow cooker favorite!

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