Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a flavorful and comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With tender beef strips and vibrant bell peppers simmered in a savory sauce, this recipe is both easy to make and satisfying. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a delicious pepper steak in your slow cooker, even if you’re new to cooking!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
- 1 1/2 to 2 pounds beef round steak, cut into 1/4-inch thick strips: This lean cut becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used for browning the beef, which adds flavor.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: Adds a salty, umami flavor to the dish.
- 1 cup beef broth: Forms the base of the sauce, providing richness.
- 1/2 cup onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a robust garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the flavors and adds a slight sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds a subtle warmth and spice.
- 2 bell peppers, one green and one red for color, cut into strips: Adds sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce.
- 1/4 cup cold water: Mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening.
- Cooked rice: For serving alongside the pepper steak.
Instructions: How to Make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Slice the Beef:
- Start by slicing the 1 1/2 to 2 pounds of beef round steak into 1/4-inch thick strips. This ensures that the beef cooks evenly and becomes tender.
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and brown them on all sides. This step is optional but adds extra flavor to the dish. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Step 2: Assemble the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Add the Sauce Ingredients:
- In the slow cooker, add 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 1 cup of beef broth, 1/2 cup of sliced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger. Stir to combine the ingredients with the beef.
- Cook in the Slow Cooker:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. The beef should become tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Bell Peppers
- Prepare the Bell Peppers:
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, add the sliced bell peppers (one green and one red) to the slow cooker. Stir them into the beef mixture, allowing them to soften while still retaining some of their crunch.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- Make the Cornstarch Slurry:
- In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir well.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- Continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Serve the Pepper Steak
- Serve Over Rice:
- Once the sauce has thickened and the bell peppers are tender, your slow cooker pepper steak is ready to serve. Spoon the pepper steak over cooked rice and enjoy!
🍽 Cook’s Notes & Tips
- Browning the Beef: Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
- Pepper Choices: Feel free to use different colors of bell peppers for a more colorful dish.
- Thickening Tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
Variations of Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Here are some ways to customize your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak:
- Spicy Pepper Steak: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Ginger-Lime Pepper Steak: Add the juice of half a lime and a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger for a citrusy twist.
- Vegetarian Pepper Steak: Replace the beef with thick slices of portobello mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like flank steak or sirloin. Just make sure to slice it thinly so it cooks evenly.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, slow cooker pepper steak freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
5. What can I serve with pepper steak besides rice?
Pepper steak pairs well with noodles, quinoa, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
A Simple and Delicious Meal
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is an easy and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days. With tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is simple to follow and yields delicious results every time.
So gather your ingredients and enjoy the comfort of homemade pepper steak with minimal effort!
