Name: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: PT-480746H28M17S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef sirloin strips or sirloin steak cut into slices; 3 large colorful bell peppers sliced thick; 1 large onion sliced; 3 garlic cloves; ¾ cup beef broth; 3 beef bouillon cubes; ¼ cup soy sauce; 2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoon cornstarch or flour

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Crockpot Pepper Steak is the epitome of a set-it-and-forget-it meal, offering a blend of rich flavors, ease, and comfort. This recipe, inspired by Chinese cuisine, becomes an instant favorite when served atop rice, noodles, or your choice of side.

Transforming the traditional stir-fry into a slow cooker delight, this Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe envelopes slices of beef and sweet bell peppers in a savory beef sauce that’s utterly irresistible. The slow cooker not only simplifies the cooking process but also enhances the beef’s tenderness far beyond what is achievable on the stovetop.

This dish, with its savory depths and straightforward preparation, will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Its ease of preparation and the tender, flavorsome result will have you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

It epitomizes convenience with a dump-and-go approach, requiring no pre-cooking.
The beef emerges incredibly tender and full of flavor, effortlessly melting in your mouth.
Its hands-off nature means you can set it and forget it, with no need to add ingredients midway through cooking.
Preparation is quick and easy, demanding only a few minutes to slice up the veggies.
On evenings when time is scarce, this slow cooker pepper steak will be your culinary savior.

List of ingredients needed for the recipe

For this hearty and flavorsome Crockpot Pepper Steak, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 pounds beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
2 bell peppers, preferably one red and one green, sliced into strips
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
1/2 cup beef broth (or water if broth is not available)
1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the flavors)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (if browning the beef prior to adding to the crockpot, optional)
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, perfect for serving over your choice of rice or noodles. The combination of tender beef, crisp peppers, and a savory sauce makes for a meal that’s sure to please any palate.

Step-by-step preparation instructions

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe 2

To create a delicious and comforting Crockpot Pepper Steak, follow these step-by-step instructions:

Ingredients Preparation:

Slice the Beef: Start by slicing 2 pounds of beef sirloin into thin, bite-sized strips. This ensures the beef cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well.
Prepare Vegetables: Slice 2 bell peppers (one red and one green for a colorful dish) and 1 large onion into strips. Mince 3 cloves of garlic.

Cooking Process:

Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/2 cup beef broth, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and salt to taste. This mixture will be the base of your sauce.
Brown the Beef (Optional): Although this step is optional, browning the beef in a skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat can add depth to the dish’s flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and place the beef directly into the crockpot.
Layer Ingredients in Crockpot: Place the sliced beef at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic on top. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables.
Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender, and the vegetables cooked yet still slightly crisp.

Finishing Touches:

Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by mixing an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stirring it into the crockpot. Increase the heat to high and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.
Serve: Serve your Crockpot Pepper Steak over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal. The dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

Tips:

Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Add Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or carrots to the dish in the last hour of cooking for added color and nutrition.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

Author: Eliza Nooman
Prep Time: 10 Mins
Cook Time: 6hours
Total Time: 6HRS 10min
Category: Main Course
Method: crockpot
Cuisine: American, Chinese

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Description

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy, delicious, and packed with tender beef and flavorful bell peppers. A foolproof meal that’s bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs beef sirloin strips or sirloin steak cut into slices
3 large colorful bell peppers sliced thick
1 large onion sliced
3 garlic cloves
¾ cup beef broth
3 beef bouillon cubes
¼ cup soy sauce
2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoon cornstarch or flour

Instructions

Make the sauce. Combine hot beef broth, bouillon cubes, soy sauce, worchestire sauce, honey, ground ginger, black pepper, salt and cornstarch/flour in a mixing glass. Stir well, crushing the bouillon cubes.
Place beef strips into the slow cooker. Pour sauce on top. Add peppers, onions and garlic on top of the beef.
Set to LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. If possible, stir the ingredients halfway through.
When finished, stir well and transfer to a serving dish. Serve over rice or noodles or as a side with mashed or baked potatoes.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 8oz
Calories: 267kcal
Sugar: 11g
Sodium: 1229mg
Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0.2g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 92mg

Serving Suggestions

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe

Serving your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak in appealing and delicious ways can transform a simple meal into a memorable dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Pepper Steak meal:

Over Rice: The classic choice. Serve your Pepper Steak over a bed of steaming white, brown, or jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
With Noodles: For a twist, lay your Pepper Steak over a plate of cooked noodles. Egg noodles, udon, or even spaghetti work well, adding a different texture and taste to your meal.
Grain Alternatives: For a healthier option, consider serving over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a mix of wild grains. These alternatives offer additional nutrients and can cater to various dietary preferences.
In a Wrap: Take a more casual approach by spooning the Pepper Steak into tortillas or lettuce wraps. Add some sliced avocado or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.
Alongside Vegetables: Complement the Pepper Steak with a side of steamed, roasted, or stir-fried vegetables. Broccoli, carrots, snow peas, or a mix of seasonal veggies will add color, nutrition, and balance to your meal.
As a Pepper Steak Sandwich: Use the Pepper Steak as a filling for a hearty sandwich. Pile it onto a crusty baguette or hoagie roll, maybe with some melted cheese and sautéed mushrooms, for a delicious twist on the traditional recipe.
With a Side Salad: A crisp, fresh salad makes an excellent side for Pepper Steak. Choose a simple green salad or something more elaborate like a Caesar or Asian-inspired salad to keep things light and refreshing.
Toppings and Garnishes: Finally, don’t forget the power of garnishes. A sprinkle of sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of sesame oil can add a final touch of flavor and presentation that elevates the dish.

Each of these serving suggestions allows you to customize your meal to fit the occasion, whether you’re seeking comfort food for a cozy night in or presenting a dish to impress guests. The versatility of Slow Cooker Pepper Steak ensures it can be the star of any meal, complemented by a variety of sides and serving styles.

Storage and Reheating Instructions:

Proper storage and reheating of your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak will ensure that it remains delicious and safe to eat for days after cooking. Follow these tips for the best results:

Storage Instructions:

Cool Down: Allow the Pepper Steak to cool to room temperature before storing. Do not leave it out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled Pepper Steak into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze for Longer Storage: For longer storage, freeze the Pepper Steak in a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label the container with the date, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

Reheating in the Microwave: Place the desired amount of Pepper Steak in a microwave-safe dish. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, allowing a corner to be open for venting. Reheat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Be cautious as the container and contents will be hot.
Reheating on the Stove: Transfer the Pepper Steak to a skillet or saucepan. Add a splash of water or beef broth to prevent drying out. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture of the vegetables and meat.
Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the Pepper Steak in an oven-safe dish and add a little water or broth to keep it moist. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for 10-15 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed. This method is great for larger portions.

Additional Tips:

Check Temperature: Ensure that the Pepper Steak reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating to ensure it is safe to eat.
Avoid Repeated Reheating: Try to reheat only the amount of Pepper Steak you plan to eat in one sitting. Repeatedly cooling and reheating can affect the quality and safety of the food.
Revive the Flavor: If you find the Pepper Steak has lost a bit of its flavor during storage, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of salt, pepper, or a splash of soy sauce after reheating to brighten up the flavors again.

FAQs:

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes, while sirloin is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can also use other cuts such as flank steak or chuck roast. Keep in mind that tougher cuts may require a longer cooking time to become tender.

Is it possible to overcook the beef in a slow cooker? While slow cookers are more forgiving, it is possible to overcook beef, especially on the high setting. Overcooking can lead to drier meat, so it’s best to adhere to the recommended cooking times.

Can I add more vegetables to the recipe? Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate additional vegetables such as mushrooms, snap peas, carrots, or broccoli. Add them according to their cooking times to ensure they don’t become too soft.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free? To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free, and double-check all your other ingredients for any hidden gluten. Cornstarch is naturally gluten-free and safe to use.

Can I make Pepper Steak spicy? Yes, you can easily adjust the spice level to your liking. Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapenos, or a bit of hot sauce to the mix to kick up the heat.

Conclusion:

This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe offers a delightful mix of tender beef, crisp bell peppers, and a savory sauce, all with the convenience of a slow cooker. Whether you’re looking to simplify your weeknight dinners or impress guests with minimal effort, this dish is sure to satisfy. Its versatility allows for customization to suit any palate, and the ease of preparation and cleanup makes it a practical choice for any occasion. Remember to store and reheat leftovers properly to extend the enjoyment of your Pepper Steak. With this recipe in your culinary arsenal, you’re ready to enjoy delicious, comforting meals anytime.

Crockpot Pepper Steak is the epitome of a set-it-and-forget-it meal, offering a blend of rich flavors, ease, and comfort. This recipe, inspired by Chinese cuisine, becomes an instant favorite when served atop rice, noodles, or your choice of side.

This dish, with its savory depths and straightforward preparation, will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Its ease of preparation and the tender, flavorsome result will have you coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

It epitomizes convenience with a dump-and-go approach, requiring no pre-cooking.

The beef emerges incredibly tender and full of flavor, effortlessly melting in your mouth.

Its hands-off nature means you can set it and forget it, with no need to add ingredients midway through cooking.

Preparation is quick and easy, demanding only a few minutes to slice up the veggies.

On evenings when time is scarce, this slow cooker pepper steak will be your culinary savior.

List of ingredients needed for the recipe

For this hearty and flavorsome Crockpot Pepper Steak, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 pounds beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips

2 bell peppers, preferably one red and one green, sliced into strips

1 large onion, sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)

1/2 cup beef broth (or water if broth is not available)

1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)

1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the flavors)

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Salt, to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil (if browning the beef prior to adding to the crockpot, optional)

Cooked rice or noodles, for serving

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, perfect for serving over your choice of rice or noodles. The combination of tender beef, crisp peppers, and a savory sauce makes for a meal that’s sure to please any palate.

Step-by-step preparation instructions

To create a delicious and comforting Crockpot Pepper Steak, follow these step-by-step instructions:

Ingredients Preparation:

Slice the Beef: Start by slicing 2 pounds of beef sirloin into thin, bite-sized strips. This ensures the beef cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors well.

Prepare Vegetables: Slice 2 bell peppers (one red and one green for a colorful dish) and 1 large onion into strips. Mince 3 cloves of garlic.

Cooking Process:

Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/2 cup beef broth, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and salt to taste. This mixture will be the base of your sauce.

Brown the Beef (Optional): Although this step is optional, browning the beef in a skillet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat can add depth to the dish’s flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step and place the beef directly into the crockpot.

Layer Ingredients in Crockpot: Place the sliced beef at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic on top. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables.

Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be tender, and the vegetables cooked yet still slightly crisp.

Finishing Touches:

Serve: Serve your Crockpot Pepper Steak over cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal. The dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad.

Tips:

Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

Add Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or carrots to the dish in the last hour of cooking for added color and nutrition.

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Nutrition

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak in appealing and delicious ways can transform a simple meal into a memorable dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your Pepper Steak meal:

Over Rice: The classic choice. Serve your Pepper Steak over a bed of steaming white, brown, or jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the savory sauce, making each bite a perfect blend of flavors and textures.

With Noodles: For a twist, lay your Pepper Steak over a plate of cooked noodles. Egg noodles, udon, or even spaghetti work well, adding a different texture and taste to your meal.

Grain Alternatives: For a healthier option, consider serving over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a mix of wild grains. These alternatives offer additional nutrients and can cater to various dietary preferences.

In a Wrap: Take a more casual approach by spooning the Pepper Steak into tortillas or lettuce wraps. Add some sliced avocado or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor.

Alongside Vegetables: Complement the Pepper Steak with a side of steamed, roasted, or stir-fried vegetables. Broccoli, carrots, snow peas, or a mix of seasonal veggies will add color, nutrition, and balance to your meal.

As a Pepper Steak Sandwich: Use the Pepper Steak as a filling for a hearty sandwich. Pile it onto a crusty baguette or hoagie roll, maybe with some melted cheese and sautéed mushrooms, for a delicious twist on the traditional recipe.

With a Side Salad: A crisp, fresh salad makes an excellent side for Pepper Steak. Choose a simple green salad or something more elaborate like a Caesar or Asian-inspired salad to keep things light and refreshing.

Toppings and Garnishes: Finally, don’t forget the power of garnishes. A sprinkle of sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or a drizzle of sesame oil can add a final touch of flavor and presentation that elevates the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions:

Proper storage and reheating of your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak will ensure that it remains delicious and safe to eat for days after cooking. Follow these tips for the best results:

Storage Instructions:

Cool Down: Allow the Pepper Steak to cool to room temperature before storing. Do not leave it out for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Refrigerate: Transfer the cooled Pepper Steak into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze for Longer Storage: For longer storage, freeze the Pepper Steak in a freezer-safe airtight container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. Label the container with the date, and it can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

Reheating on the Stove: Transfer the Pepper Steak to a skillet or saucepan. Add a splash of water or beef broth to prevent drying out. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method helps to preserve the texture of the vegetables and meat.

Additional Tips:

Check Temperature: Ensure that the Pepper Steak reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when reheating to ensure it is safe to eat.

Avoid Repeated Reheating: Try to reheat only the amount of Pepper Steak you plan to eat in one sitting. Repeatedly cooling and reheating can affect the quality and safety of the food.

Revive the Flavor: If you find the Pepper Steak has lost a bit of its flavor during storage, don’t hesitate to add a pinch of salt, pepper, or a splash of soy sauce after reheating to brighten up the flavors again.