Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a hearty, flavorful dish that combines tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and a savory sauce infused with soy, garlic, and ginger. Slow-cooked to perfection, this dish is a comforting and satisfying option for busy weeknights, meal prep, or gatherings. By using a crock pot, the steak becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the flavors have plenty of time to develop, creating a dish that’s as delicious as it is effortless.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a low-maintenance way to prepare a flavorful dinner that pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes. With its vibrant colors and bold flavors, Crock Pot Pepper Steak will quickly become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Tender and Flavorful: Slow cooking ensures the beef becomes tender and absorbs all the savory flavors of the sauce.
One-Pot Wonder: All the ingredients cook together in the crock pot, minimizing cleanup and effort.
Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your tastes.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it in the morning and come home to a warm, ready-to-eat meal.
Perfect for Sharing: Great for family dinners or entertaining guests with minimal effort.

Preparation Time and Servings

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Serving Size: 1 cup

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Pepper Steak:

• 2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), sliced into strips
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Thickening (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Optional Garnishes:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Beef

1. Slice the beef sirloin or flank steak into thin strips against the grain for tenderness.
2. Toss the beef strips with flour or cornstarch in a large bowl to coat evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in batches and sear until browned on all sides.
2. Transfer the browned beef to the crock pot. (This step enhances flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.)

Step 3: Add Vegetables

1. Layer the sliced onions and bell peppers over the beef in the crock pot.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
2. Pour the sauce evenly over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot.

Step 5: Cook

1. Cover the crock pot with the lid and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

1. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to thicken.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Serve the pepper steak hot over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

Ingredient Background

Beef

Beef sirloin or flank steak works best for this recipe due to their tenderness and ability to soak up flavors during slow cooking. Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure it stays tender.

Bell Peppers

A mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers not only adds a variety of colors but also enhances the dish with a balance of sweet and slightly bitter flavors.

Soy Sauce

Soy sauce serves as the base of the savory sauce, adding umami and depth. Low-sodium soy sauce is recommended to control the saltiness.

Tomato Paste

Tomato paste contributes a rich, tangy flavor and helps to thicken the sauce.

Ginger and Garlic

Fresh ginger and garlic add aromatic, slightly spicy notes that complement the beef and vegetables.

Technique Tips

Sear the Beef: Browning the beef before adding it to the crock pot enhances its flavor, creating a rich, caramelized base for the dish.

Cut Uniform Strips: Slice the beef and bell peppers into uniform strips to ensure even cooking.

Layer Ingredients: Layer the beef, onions, and bell peppers in the crock pot for even distribution of flavors during cooking.

Adjust Cooking Time: Check the beef for tenderness after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high, as cooking times can vary based on the crock pot model.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

Rice Bowls: Serve the pepper steak over steamed white or brown rice for a classic presentation.

Noodle Stir-Fry: Toss the cooked pepper steak with cooked noodles for an Asian-inspired noodle dish.

Lettuce Wraps: Use the pepper steak as a filling for lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

Additional Tips for Success

Don’t Skip the Sauce: The sauce is the heart of this dish. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed before pouring it over the beef and vegetables.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ginger and garlic provide a more robust flavor than powdered versions.

Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the cooking time, as overcooking can cause the beef to become mushy.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Pepper Steak: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for extra heat.

Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for a plant-based alternative.

Teriyaki Pepper Steak: Substitute the soy sauce and brown sugar with teriyaki sauce for a sweeter flavor profile.

Honey Garlic Pepper Steak: Add 2 tablespoons of honey to the sauce for a hint of sweetness.

Freezing and Storing

Refrigeration: Store leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Freezing: Freeze the cooked pepper steak in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Healthier Twist Ideas

Lean Cuts: Use leaner cuts of beef, like sirloin, or substitute with chicken breast for a lower-fat option.

Low-Sodium Ingredients: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and broth to reduce the salt content.

Extra Vegetables: Add more vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini to increase the dish’s fiber and nutrients.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Family Dinner: Serve the pepper steak family-style with a side of steamed rice and a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

Potluck Favorite: Bring the pepper steak in the crock pot to a potluck, keeping it warm on the “keep warm” setting for easy serving.

Dinner Party: Plate the pepper steak with jasmine rice and garnish with fresh herbs for an elegant presentation that’s sure to impress guests.

Special Equipment

Crock Pot (Slow Cooker): A crock pot is essential for achieving tender, flavorful beef and a fuss-free cooking process.

Sharp Knife: Use a sharp knife to slice the beef and bell peppers into even strips for uniform cooking.

Mixing Bowl: A medium bowl is needed to whisk together the sauce ingredients before pouring them over the beef and vegetables.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   Yes, you can use chuck roast, stew meat, or any tender cut suitable for slow cooking.
2. Can I skip browning the beef?
   While browning adds flavor, you can skip this step to save time.
3. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
   Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
4. Can I make this recipe spicy?
   Yes, add more red pepper flakes, sriracha, or diced chili peppers for extra heat.
5. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
   Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to refresh the sauce.
6. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a crock pot?
   Yes, simmer the ingredients in a large skillet or Dutch oven over low heat for 1–2 hours, stirring occasionally.
7. What sides pair well with pepper steak?
   Steamed rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or stir-fried vegetables make excellent sides.
8. How do I thicken the sauce?
   Add a cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a thicker sauce.

Conclusion

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a comforting and flavorful dish that transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, allowing the beef to become tender and infused with the savory, umami-rich sauce while the vibrant bell peppers retain their subtle sweetness. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a dish to impress guests, or something warm and satisfying after a long day, this recipe is a perfect choice.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility and adaptability. Serve it over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal, or adjust the ingredients to make it spicier, sweeter, or even vegetarian. Plus, the make-ahead and reheating options mean you can enjoy the flavors of this Pepper Steak on your schedule, making it ideal for meal prep or potluck gatherings.

Try this recipe today and experience the joy of a fuss-free, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and rich sauce, this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot will quickly earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation!

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