Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a delicious and hearty dish that features tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce—all cooked together slowly to create a melt-in-your-mouth meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting, low-effort dinner, this recipe is sure to be a family favorite. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced into thin strips
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Cooked white rice, for serving
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Season and Coat the Beef: In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with flour, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Sear the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear for 2-3 minutes, or until browned on all sides. Transfer the beef to the crockpot.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Sauce
- Add Onion, Peppers, and Garlic: Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the crockpot on top of the beef.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and ground ginger. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the crockpot.
Step 3: Cook the Pepper Steak
- Cover and Cook: Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with water until smooth. Stir the cornstarch slurry into the crockpot, cover, and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve: Serve the pepper steak over cooked white rice, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Searing the Beef: Searing the beef before adding it to the crockpot adds extra flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but the dish may not have as much depth of flavor.
- Bell Peppers: Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for a vibrant and visually appealing dish.
- Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish, especially if you prefer a less salty flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Pepper Steak: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño for some heat.
- Ginger-Garlic Pepper Steak: Add extra minced ginger and garlic for a more intense flavor profile.
- Teriyaki Pepper Steak: Substitute the soy sauce and brown sugar with teriyaki sauce for a different take on this classic dish.
Serving Suggestions
- White or Brown Rice: Serve the pepper steak over white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Noodles: Serve over cooked egg noodles or lo mein noodles for a fun twist.
- Side Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans to round out the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like skirt steak or chuck roast. Just make sure to slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, just place it in the crockpot and cook as directed.
Can I Use Frozen Peppers?
Yes, frozen bell peppers work well in this recipe. They may add a bit more liquid, so you might need to adjust the sauce consistency by adding a little extra cornstarch.
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a savory sauce, this dish is sure to please the whole family. The crockpot does all the work, allowing you to come home to a ready-to-eat, delicious meal with minimal effort. Gather your ingredients, set up your crockpot, and enjoy this easy, tasty dish!
Happy Cooking!
