Easy Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot Recipe

If you’re searching for an incredibly flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth dinner that’s easy to prepare, look no further than this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot recipe. This dish brings together tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce that cooks low and slow to perfection. Whether you’re juggling a hectic schedule or just craving comfort food, this recipe is guaranteed to become one of your favorite go-tos.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless cooking: Simply toss ingredients in the crock pot and let it work its magic while you relax or get other tasks done.
• Tender, juicy beef: Slow cooking breaks down the meat fibers, resulting in a super tender and flavorful steak every time.
• Vibrant colors and textures: Bell peppers add a fresh, crunchy contrast to the rich sauce and tender meat.
• Perfect for busy weeknights: Minimal prep means you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• Versatile and satisfying: This pepper steak pairs effortlessly with rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes for a hearty dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot recipe are straightforward and focus on maximizing flavor with simplicity. Each component plays a unique role in creating a balanced and delicious dish—from the savory beef and crisp peppers to the robust sauce.

• Beef sirloin or flank steak: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and tenderness when slow-cooked.
• Bell peppers (red, green, yellow): A colorful mix that adds crunch and sweetness to the dish.
• Onion: Sliced to bring subtle sweetness and depth.
• Garlic cloves: Minced to infuse the sauce with aromatic warmth.
• Soy sauce: Adds savory umami and saltiness to the rich sauce base.
• Beef broth: Enhances the meatiness and creates the perfect slow-cooked sauce.
• Black pepper: Freshly cracked to highlight the pepper steak theme with a mildly spicy kick.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity and a tangy depth to the flavor profile.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce and give it a luscious texture.
• Olive oil or vegetable oil: For a quick sear of the beef to lock in juices (optional but recommended).

Variations for Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

One of the best parts about this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot recipe is how easy it is to adjust based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative while keeping the dish comforting and delicious.

• Spicy twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili flakes for some heat without overpowering the original flavors.
• Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice to keep it light and keto-friendly.
• Vegetarian take: Swap beef with hearty mushrooms like portobello or shiitake for a satisfying meatless meal.
• Asian-inspired flavors: Incorporate fresh ginger and a splash of sesame oil for an extra umami punch.
• Extra veggies: Toss in sliced carrots, snap peas, or broccoli florets to boost nutritional value and color.

How to Make Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Beef

Start by thinly slicing your beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. Optional but highly recommended: heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet and quickly sear the beef slices until browned on both sides. This step locks in juices and adds deeper flavor.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Aromatics

Slice your bell peppers and onions into strips, and mince the garlic cloves. Place these fresh ingredients in the crock pot, layering the peppers and onions over the beef for a perfect meld of flavors.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and a generous amount of freshly cracked black pepper. Stir until well mixed, then pour the sauce evenly over your beef and vegetable layers in the crock pot.

Step 4: Cook Low and Slow

Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 5 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The low-and-slow method melts the beef to tender perfection and allows the flavors to blend fully.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the crock pot to thicken the sauce, giving it that nice, glossy finish.

Pro Tips for Making Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

• Thin slicing: Slice the beef as thinly as possible to speed up cooking and enhance tenderness.
• Sear for flavor: Browning the meat before slow cooking boosts depth and complexity.
• Fresh black pepper: Use freshly cracked pepper for a more vibrant and aromatic heat than pre-ground.
• Don’t skip thickening: Adding cornstarch slurry at the end ensures the sauce clings beautifully to the steak and veggies.
• Stir carefully: Gently mix before serving to keep the slices intact and maintain texture.

How to Serve Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions add a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for a subtle nutty flavor and a lovely crunch.

Side Dishes

This rich and savory Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot pairs beautifully with steamed white or brown rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even simple egg noodles. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the pepper steak over a cozy bed of creamy polenta or inside a warm pita wrap for a fun twist. Another crowd-pleaser is layering it into a stuffed bell pepper or serving it over garlic fried rice to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any remaining Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually develop even more after a day!

Freezing

This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help revitalize the sauce and keep the beef moist.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes! While sirloin or flank steak work best for tenderness, you can also use skirt steak or even stew meat if you prefer—just adjust cooking times slightly.

Do I need to brown meat before putting it in the crock pot?

Searing the meat isn’t mandatory but highly recommended. It enhances the flavor and seals in juices, resulting in richer, tastier beef.

Can I prepare this recipe without a crock pot?

Absolutely! You can cook this on the stovetop in a covered skillet or in a Dutch oven using low heat, though the slow cooker makes the process truly hands-off.

How long does Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot take to cook?

Cooking on low usually takes about 5 to 7 hours, while high heat shortens it to 3 to 4 hours, depending on your slow cooker model.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce, and double-check your Worcestershire sauce ingredients to ensure it’s gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot recipe is a game-changer when it comes to easy, delicious weeknight dinners. With its simple ingredients and cozy flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. Grab your crock pot and give it a try—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

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