Pepper Steak In A Crock Pot Recipe

There's nothing quite like coming home to the savory aroma of Pepper Steak simmering in your slow cooker. This dish combines tender slices of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, flavorful sauce that perfectly balances sweet and savory.

I first tried this recipe on a cold winter evening when I wanted something warm and hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Since then, it’s become a staple in our household – especially on busy weeknights. Let’s dive into why this recipe will soon be your go-to comfort meal.

Why You'll Love This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Get ready to fall head over heels for this dish! This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is more than just a recipe – it’s a dinner revolution.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep work, you can toss everything into your slow cooker and let it work its magic. This hands-off approach makes it perfect for hectic days when you need dinner to take care of itself.

The beef turns out meltingly tender after slow cooking all day. You’ll love how the meat practically falls apart with every bite, soaking up the rich flavors of the sauce.

This recipe is also healthy and packed with nutrients. Colorful bell peppers add crunch, vitamins, and sweetness, while the sauce – a blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger – delivers depth without overpowering the dish.

Finally, it’s family-approved and versatile. Serve it over fluffy white rice, egg noodles, or even mashed potatoes for a hearty meal everyone will enjoy.

Ready to create this delicious dish? Let’s start with the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. A few key ingredients come together to create a dish that’s full of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Beef: Look for sirloin steak, flank steak, or chuck roast, sliced into thin strips. These cuts become irresistibly tender in the slow cooker.
• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for a pop of color and flavor. They bring sweetness and a slight crunch to the dish.
• Onions: A medium yellow onion, sliced thin, adds a savory base that complements the peppers.
• Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger bring aromatic depth to the sauce.
• Soy Sauce: This forms the base of the sauce. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Beef Broth: Adds richness to the sauce and keeps the beef moist while cooking.
• Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness balances the salty and savory elements of the dish.
• Cornstarch: Mixed with water, this thickens the sauce toward the end of cooking for that perfect glossy finish.

Equipment Needed

A large slow cooker (at least 6 quarts) is ideal for this recipe to ensure everything cooks evenly. A sharp knife and cutting board are also essential for slicing the beef and veggies.

How To Make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Making this dish is as easy as 1-2-3! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready in no time.

1. Prep the Ingredients
   Begin by slicing your beef into thin strips, ensuring even pieces for uniform cooking. Then, cut your bell peppers and onion into thin slices.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker
   In your slow cooker, add the beef strips first, followed by the onion and bell peppers. This layering ensures the beef absorbs maximum flavor from the sauce.
3. Mix the Sauce
   In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar. Pour this savory mixture over the beef and veggies in the slow cooker.
4. Cook Low and Slow
   Set your slow cooker to low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. As it cooks, the beef will become tender and soak up the rich sauce.
5. Thicken the Sauce
   About 30 minutes before serving, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and let it thicken.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the sauce is thickened, spoon the Pepper Steak over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for extra flair.

Storage Options

This Pepper Steak is just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooled Pepper Steak in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the sauce has thickened too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, and you can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs.

• Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef for firm tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.
• Extra Veggies: Add sliced carrots, snap peas, or broccoli for additional color and crunch.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a surefire hit. Experiment with different variations and make it your own – the possibilities are endless. Bon appétit!

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