Slow Cooker Pepper Steak: A Simple, Flavorful Comfort Meal
The Ultimate Easy Dinner Idea
When life gets busy, a slow cooker can be your best friend in the kitchen. This Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe is a delicious, low-effort meal that satisfies your craving for hearty, Chinese-inspired flavors. With tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce, it’s a go-to choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. Serve it over rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes for a wholesome and comforting meal.
Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak Recipe
- Minimal Prep: A true “dump-and-go” recipe, this dish requires minimal effort. Simply slice, mix, and let the slow cooker do the work.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein, fresh veggies, and rich flavors, this meal satisfies cravings while keeping you on track.
- Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with steamed rice, stir-fried noodles, or low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice for a custom meal.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep, this pepper steak tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
The Secret to Perfect Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
1. Choosing the Right Beef
For the best texture and flavor, use beef sirloin strips or steak cut into thin slices. Sirloin is tender, easy to cook, and absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce beautifully.
2. Vibrant Vegetables
Use colorful bell peppers (red, yellow, and green) to add natural sweetness and a pop of color. Sliced onions and garlic bring depth and a touch of spice.
3. The Flavor-Packed Sauce
The sauce is a delicious blend of savory soy sauce, beef broth, honey, and Worcestershire sauce, with hints of ground ginger for a slightly tangy, aromatic finish. Thickened with cornstarch or flour, the sauce coats every bite.
Key Tips for the Best Crockpot Pepper Steak
- Slice Thinly: Thin slices of beef cook evenly and absorb more flavor.
- Layering Is Key: Place the beef at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure it cooks thoroughly. Add veggies on top to retain their texture.
- Stir Halfway: If possible, stir the mixture halfway through cooking for even distribution of flavors.
- Customize the Heat: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Serve with Style: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for a professional touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this recipe low-carb?
Yes! Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative.
2. How can I store leftovers?
Store the cooled pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
3. Can I use frozen beef?
For best results, use thawed beef. Frozen beef may release excess water, diluting the flavors.
Easy Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Steak and Vegetables:
- 2 lbs beef sirloin strips (or thinly sliced sirloin steak)
- 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- For the Sauce:
- ¾ cup hot beef broth
- 3 beef bouillon cubes
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or flour)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl or large measuring cup, combine the hot beef broth, crushed bouillon cubes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, ground ginger, black pepper, salt, and cornstarch. Stir well until smooth.
- Assemble in the Crockpot:
- Layer the beef strips at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over the beef.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic on top.
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. If possible, stir halfway through for even cooking.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once the cooking time is complete, give the pepper steak a good stir to coat the beef and vegetables in the sauce.
- Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Don’t worry if the sauce seems minimal at the beginning; the beef and vegetables will release juices during cooking, creating a flavorful gravy.
- To thicken the sauce further, mix an additional teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the dish during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Enjoy this simple and satisfying Crockpot Pepper Steak, a homemade takeout favorite that’s perfect for any day of the week!
NUTRITION:
Serving: 8oz, Calories: 267kcal, Carbohydrates: 18g, Protein: 36g, Fat: 5g, Saturated Fat: 2g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g, Monounsaturated Fat: 2g, Trans Fat: 0.2g, Cholesterol: 92mg, Sodium: 1229mg, Potassium: 931mg, Fiber: 2g, Sugar: 11g, Vitamin A: 2571IU, Vitamin C: 108mg, Calcium: 30mg, Iron: 4mg