Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot – glassika recipes

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot – Tender, Flavorful & Easy

Calling all slow cooker lovers! If you’re looking for a hearty, delicious, and comforting meal that requires minimal effort, this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is the perfect recipe for you. Packed with tender beef strips, savory peppers, onions, and a rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is an absolute winner for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

With just a handful of ingredients and a slow cooker doing all the work, you’ll get a melt-in-your-mouth pepper steak that’s better than takeout. Whether you serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy your craving for something savory, hearty, and delicious. Let’s get started!

Introduction

There’s something magical about slow cooker meals—they’re easy to prepare, require little attention, and deliver amazing, deep flavors. This Crock Pot Pepper Steak is no exception! Tender beef sirloin, simmered in a rich, savory sauce with sweet bell peppers and onions, creates a dish that’s both comforting and packed with flavor.

The beauty of this slow cooker beef recipe is its simplicity. Once you’ve browned the beef and added everything to the slow cooker, the magic happens while you go about your day. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a hungry family, or just craving a delicious, protein-packed dish, this pepper steak recipe will quickly become one of your favorites.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful, slow-cooked pepper steak:

Essential Ingredients

2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 2-inch strips
¾ teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste)
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cube beef bouillon
¼ cup hot water
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ cup chopped onion
2 large green bell peppers, roughly chopped
1 (14.5-ounce) can stewed tomatoes, with liquid
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon white sugar
1 teaspoon salt

How to Make Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

1. Prepare the Beef

Sprinkle the beef sirloin strips evenly with garlic powder for extra flavor.

2. Sear the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the beef strips for about 5 minutes per side, or until nicely browned. This step locks in the flavor and ensures your beef will be tender and rich when fully cooked.

3. Transfer to the Slow Cooker

Move the seared beef strips into the slow cooker, making sure they are evenly spread out.

4. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, dissolve the beef bouillon cube in hot water, then stir in cornstarch until fully dissolved. This mixture will help thicken the sauce as it cooks.

5. Add the Vegetables & Sauce

Pour the bouillon and cornstarch mixture into the slow cooker with the beef. Add in chopped onions, green bell peppers, stewed tomatoes (with liquid), soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors.

6. Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker with a lid and set it to:

High for 3 to 4 hours for a quicker meal
Low for 6 to 8 hours for ultra-tender beef

The slow cooking process allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while soaking up all the rich flavors from the garlic, tomatoes, and soy sauce.

7. Serve & Enjoy

Once done, give the pepper steak a final stir. Serve it hot over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles. Garnish with extra fresh parsley or sesame seeds for a finishing touch.

Helpful Tips

Brown the Beef First – While you can skip this step, searing the beef locks in flavor and improves the texture.
Use Different Peppers – Swap out green bell peppers for red, yellow, or orange peppers for a sweeter taste.
Add Spice – Want a little kick? Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Thicker Sauce – If you prefer a thicker sauce, add another tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Cooking Tips

To make this Crock Pot Pepper Steak even better, try these expert tips:

Use the Right Beef – Sirloin, flank steak, or even chuck roast works well in this recipe. If using a tougher cut, cook it longer for maximum tenderness.
Add Mushrooms – Sliced mushrooms pair beautifully with this dish, adding a deeper umami flavor.
Make it Healthier – Use low-sodium soy sauce and add extra vegetables for a more balanced meal.
Storage & Freezing – Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this slow cooker pepper steak with:

Steamed white or brown rice
Mashed potatoes
Egg noodles or ramen
Crusty bread for dipping
A fresh side salad

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:

Calories: 350
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg

This protein-packed dish is low in carbs and can be easily modified for a low-carb or keto-friendly meal by serving it with cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm it on the stove over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Freeze: Let the dish cool completely, then freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Flank steak, chuck roast, or round steak all work well. Just adjust the cooking time for tougher cuts.

Do I need to sear the beef?
While not required, searing locks in the flavor and gives the beef a better texture.

Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or cayenne pepper for extra heat.

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If you love this Crock Pot Pepper Steak, check out these other delicious recipes:

Final Thoughts

This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal. With rich flavors, tender beef, and an easy cooking process, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Try it tonight, and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort! 🍽️