Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Tender strips of beef slow-cooked in a savory soy-based sauce with colorful bell peppers and onions make this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot an irresistible dish. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this recipe offers the convenience of being hands-off while maintaining rich flavors. It’s a comforting meal that suits any occasion, from busy weeknights to weekend feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just a few steps and minimal hands-on time, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and spices creates a deep, savory taste that elevates the dish.
• Colorful Presentation: Vibrant bell peppers add not only flavor but also visual appeal, making your meal look as good as it tastes.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for varied meals throughout the week.
• Family-Friendly: This hearty dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this flavorful Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot, you’ll need some essential tools. Here’s what you’ll require:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show! It allows for low-and-slow cooking, which makes your beef tender and infused with flavor.
• Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for slicing your ingredients.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on your beef and vegetables for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine sauces and seasonings easily before adding them to the slow cooker.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Tender strips of beef slow-cooked in a savory soy-based sauce with colorful bell peppers and onions. This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is perfect for a hands-off, comforting dinner that bursts with flavor.

For the Beef

• 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced

For the Vegetables

• 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), cut into chunks
• 1 medium onion, sliced

For the Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

For Thickening

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

Seasoning

• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)

How to Make Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Slice the beef into thin strips and season it generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker

Place the seasoned beef at the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add bell peppers and onion on top of the beef layer.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, brown sugar, and optional red pepper flakes until well combined.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the sauce mixture over the meat and vegetables evenly.

Step 6: Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until everything is tender.

Step 7: Thicken the Sauce

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch with cold water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to thicken your sauce.

Step 8: Final Touches

Once thickened, add sesame oil if desired for an extra flavor boost.

Step 9: Serve

Serve hot over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for an enjoyable meal.

How to Serve Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Serving Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a delightful way to enjoy this flavorful dish. With its tender beef and vibrant vegetables, it pairs well with various sides and garnishes.

Over Rice

• Serve the pepper steak over fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty meal. The rice absorbs the savory sauce perfectly.

With Noodles

• Toss the beef and vegetables with cooked noodles, such as egg noodles or rice noodles, for a comforting pasta dish.

On Mashed Potatoes

• Spoon the pepper steak over creamy mashed potatoes. The rich sauce complements the smooth texture of the potatoes beautifully.

Garnished with Green Onions

• Top your serving with sliced green onions for an added crunch and burst of flavor.

With Fresh Herbs

• Add fresh cilantro or parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.

How to Perfect Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

To ensure your Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh beef sirloin or flank steak for tenderness and flavor. Thinner slices cook more evenly.

• Sear Before Cooking: For added depth of flavor, quickly sear the beef strips in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

• Add Veggies Towards the End: For firmer vegetables, add bell peppers and onions halfway through cooking rather than at the start.

Best Side Dishes for Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your plate.

2. Fried Rice: A quick fried rice dish with peas and carrots enhances the meal’s Asian flair.

3. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice seasoned lightly with salt.

4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers can add extra flavor and nutrition.

5. Crispy Spring Rolls: These provide a deliciously crispy contrast to the tender pepper steak.

6. Garlic Bread: Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your dish.

7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers a refreshing balance to the hearty pepper steak.

8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add freshness and crunch, making it an ideal side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is vital for the best results.

• Using thick beef slices: Cutting the beef too thick can lead to uneven cooking. Always slice the beef thinly for tender, juicy results.
• Not seasoning well: Skipping seasoning can make your dish bland. Make sure to add salt and pepper to enhance the flavor of the beef and vegetables.
• Overcooking or undercooking: Cooking for too long can dry out the beef, while not cooking enough may leave it tough. Follow the recommended cooking times carefully.
• Ignoring the sauce consistency: Not thickening the sauce properly can result in a soupy dish. Remember to mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Skipping the vegetables: Omitting bell peppers and onions will reduce flavor and texture. These ingredients add a lot of color and taste, so don’t skip them!
• Neglecting storage tips: Improper storage can ruin leftovers. Make sure to store your Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot correctly to maintain freshness.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
• Freeze for up to 2–3 months for best quality.

Reheating Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes or until hot.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (1-2 minutes), stirring between intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot.

What cut of beef is best for Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot?

The best cuts include sirloin or flank steak, as they are tender and cook well when slow-cooked.

Can I use other vegetables in my Pepper Steak?

Absolutely! Feel free to add mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots based on your preferences.

How do I make Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot spicier?

To spice it up, increase red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers when preparing your dish.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute chicken breast or thighs for a lighter version of Pepper Steak.

How do I thicken the sauce if I forget to add cornstarch?

If you forget to add cornstarch, you can simmer the sauce uncovered on high heat for additional time until it reaches your desired thickness.

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot recipe is not only easy but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables and spices based on your taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Give this hearty dish a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!