Slow cooker pepper steak has been my go-to for those whirlwind weeknights when dinner feels impossible. I remember the first time I tried making it; I was convinced it would be tough and bland, but oh, was I wrong! The aroma of savory beef, sweet peppers, and garlic simmering away in my crock pot filled the house, promising a meal that was both comforting and incredibly flavorful. This easy slow cooker pepper steak recipe is a lifesaver, turning simple ingredients into a tender, delicious dish with minimal effort. Get ready to impress yourself and your family – let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
This recipe is a weeknight miracle! Here’s why you’ll be making this slow cooker pepper steak recipe again and again:
- Incredibly tender beef that melts in your mouth.
- Vibrant, colorful peppers add a fresh crunch and sweetness.
- Minimal prep means less time in the kitchen.
- The savory sauce is perfect for spooning over rice or noodles.
- It’s an easy slow cooker pepper steak that’s practically foolproof.
- Perfect for busy evenings when you need a delicious meal without the fuss.
- The aroma alone will have everyone gathering in the kitchen!
- This beef and pepper slow cooker dish is a crowd-pleaser for the whole family.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Gather these simple components for the best slow cooker pepper steak. You’ll be amazed at how these few ingredients transform into a delicious meal.
- 2 lbs (900 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced into thin strips – slicing against the grain is key for tenderness
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced – these add vibrant color and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor
- 1 medium onion, sliced – for a savory base
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that aromatic punch
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth – forms the base of our savory sauce
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce – brings that classic umami depth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar – balances the savory notes and adds a hint of sweetness
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water, for thickening) – this slurry will give our sauce that perfect, glossy consistency
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for searing the beef if you choose to
- 1 tsp ground ginger – adds a warm, zesty kick
- 1/2 tsp black pepper – for a little spice
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – for those who like a bit more heat
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds – for a fresh finish
How to Make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
This easy slow cooker pepper steak recipe is a game-changer for busy nights. You’ll love how minimal the effort is for such a delicious result. Let’s get started!
- Step 1: Start by preparing your beef. Slice the sirloin or flank steak into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick. Remember to cut against the grain for the most tender bite – this is a crucial step for the best slow cooker pepper steak.
- Step 2 (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef strips in batches for about 1-2 minutes per side until nicely browned. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want a good sear, not steam. Place the browned beef into your slow cooker.
- Step 3: Add the sliced bell peppers (both red and green) and the sliced medium onion to the slow cooker with the beef. Toss in the minced garlic. The aroma will start to build even at this stage!
- Step 4: In a separate bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the sauce: 1 cup beef broth, 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp ground ginger, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. If you like a little heat, add the optional 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes now. Pour this savory mixture evenly over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Step 5: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be fork-tender, and the vegetables soft. This slow cooking process is what makes this a truly tender slow cooker pepper steak.
- Step 6: About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the cornstarch slurry. In a small bowl, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker. This will thicken the sauce beautifully, giving your slow cooker steak and peppers that perfect glossy finish.
- Step 7: Once the sauce has thickened, give everything a final stir. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve your delicious slow cooker pepper steak with rice or your favorite side.
Browning the Beef: A Flavor Boost
While optional, searing the beef strips before adding them to the slow cooker makes a big difference. This Maillard reaction creates deeper, richer flavors that elevate your slow cooker pepper steak from good to absolutely amazing. It’s a simple step for a more complex taste. Learn more about the Maillard reaction.
Preparing the Vegetables
For this beef and pepper slow cooker dish, slice your bell peppers and onion into uniform strips. This ensures they cook evenly alongside the beef and become tender while still holding their shape. Aim for slices about 1/4-inch thick.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Want to guarantee a restaurant-worthy result every time? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make this slow cooker pepper steak recipe truly shine. Follow these tips for the most tender beef and flavorful sauce.
- Always slice your beef thinly against the grain. This is the most critical step for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Don’t overcook the peppers if you prefer them a bit crisp. Add them during the last hour of cooking on low, or the last 30-45 minutes on high.
- Taste and adjust the sauce before thickening. You might want a little more brown sugar for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.
- For an even richer flavor, use a mix of beef broth and a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
What’s the secret to tender slow cooker pepper steak?
The absolute secret to a tender slow cooker pepper steak is slicing the beef thinly against the grain. This breaks down the muscle fibers, ensuring every bite is succulent and easy to chew. Don’t skip this step!
Can I make this slow cooker pepper steak recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep all the ingredients, including slicing the beef and vegetables, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before you plan to cook. Just assemble everything in the slow cooker when you’re ready. For more make-ahead meal ideas, check out our recipes.
How do I avoid common mistakes with crock pot pepper steak?
A common pitfall is tough beef, usually from not slicing against the grain. Another mistake is overcooking the peppers, making them mushy. Finally, ensure you mix the cornstarch slurry well before adding it to prevent lumps in your sauce for the perfect crock pot pepper steak recipe.
Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
This versatile dish is wonderful served in so many ways! The rich, savory sauce of your beef and pepper slow cooker creation begs to be soaked up. My favorite way to enjoy this is over a bed of fluffy white rice, which perfectly complements the tender beef and crisp-tender vegetables. For a different texture, try serving it alongside al dente egg noodles or even creamy mashed potatoes. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, this slow cooker steak and peppers is also fantastic spooned over cauliflower rice.
Variations of Slow Cooker Pepper Steak You Can Try
This basic slow cooker pepper steak recipe is fantastic as is, but don’t be afraid to get creative! You can easily switch things up to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to inspire your next batch of this delicious oriental pepper steak slow cooker meal.
- Spicy Oriental Flair: Amp up the heat and exotic flavors by adding a few extra pinches of red pepper flakes or even some fresh sliced jalapeños or bird’s eye chilies. A splash of sriracha in the sauce can also provide a wonderful kick.
- Simple & Quick: For an even easy slow cooker pepper steak, consider using pre-sliced stir-fry beef and pre-cut bell peppers from the grocery store. This dramatically cuts down on prep time while still delivering a satisfying meal.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef for extra hearty vegetables like chunks of portobello mushrooms, firm tofu, or even thick slices of zucchini and eggplant. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
- Ginger-Garlic Boost: If you adore those classic Asian flavors, feel free to double the garlic and ginger in the sauce for an even more potent aromatic profile in your slow cooker pepper steak.
Making it Spicy: Oriental Pepper Steak Slow Cooker
To transform this into a truly zesty oriental pepper steak slow cooker dish, don’t shy away from heat! Add more red pepper flakes, a few slices of fresh chili pepper, or even a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce to the main sauce mixture. This will give your slow cooker pepper steak an exciting, fiery kick.
A Simpler Approach: Easy Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Looking for the ultimate shortcut? This easy slow cooker pepper steak can be made even simpler with a few smart swaps. Buy pre-sliced beef strips and pre-cut bell pepper strips from the produce section. You can even find pre-minced garlic. It genuinely makes assembly a breeze!
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Leftovers of this delicious slow cooker pepper steak are a gift for future meals! Once your meal is finished, allow it to cool slightly before storing. For the best results and to maintain freshness, transfer the cooled pepper steak to airtight containers. This is key for proper storage and preventing freezer burn if you plan to freeze it.
You can keep your refrigerated slow cooker steak and peppers in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you’ve made a large batch or want to save some for even later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, or place them in freezer-safe bags. Properly stored, it will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to reheat, the best method for this beef and pepper slow cooker dish is gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For stovetop reheating, place the pepper steak in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. In the microwave, cover the container and heat on medium power, stirring halfway through, until piping hot. This ensures your leftovers are just as enjoyable as the first time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
What is slow cooker pepper steak?
Slow cooker pepper steak is a hearty, flavorful dish where tender strips of beef are slow-cooked with colorful bell peppers and onions in a savory, often slightly sweet, sauce. It’s a convenient and delicious meal, perfect for busy days.
How long to cook pepper steak in slow cooker?
Generally, this slow cooker pepper steak recipe cooks on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The exact time depends on your slow cooker’s temperature and how thinly you’ve sliced the beef. You want the beef to be fork-tender.
What are the best cuts of beef for slow cooker pepper steak?
For the most tender results in your slow cooker steak and peppers, choose cuts like sirloin, flank steak, or top round. These cuts benefit greatly from the slow cooking process, becoming incredibly tender when sliced thinly against the grain. For more beef recipes, explore our garlic butter beef.
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
This slow cooker pepper steak with rice is a satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving (this recipe yields 6 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 750mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially if you alter the sauce components or beef cut for your beef and pepper slow cooker dish.
Print
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak: 7 Secrets to Tender Perfection
- Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe delivers tender beef and colorful peppers in a savory sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced into thin strips
- 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water, for thickening)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Optional garnish: chopped green onions or sesame seeds
Instructions
- Prepare beef: Slice steak into thin strips, cutting against the grain.
- Brown meat (optional): Sear strips in olive oil 1-2 minutes per side.
- Layer ingredients: Add beef, peppers, onions, and garlic to slow cooker.
- Mix sauce: Whisk broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and pepper. Pour into slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Thicken: In the last 30 minutes, stir in cornstarch slurry and let sauce thicken.
- Serve: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds. Enjoy over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Slice beef thinly and against the grain for tenderness.
- Add peppers later for extra crunch if desired.
- Adjust sweetness by increasing or reducing brown sugar.
- Customize heat with red pepper flakes or fresh chili.
- Browning beef first deepens flavor but can be skipped for convenience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-7 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Chinese-American Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
