đ„© Crockpot Pepper Steak: Tender, Flavor-Packed Slow Cooker Perfection
Looking for a delicious, hearty, and easy-to-make weeknight dinner that your whole family will love? Crockpot Pepper Steak is the answer. This slow cooker classic combines tender sirloin steak strips, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory, flavorful sauce that simmers to perfectionâall with minimal prep time.
This dish delivers rich, Asian-inspired flavors and melt-in-your-mouth meat, all cooked low and slow for the ultimate in comfort food. Serve it over fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal thatâs as cozy as it is crave-worthy.
đ„ Ingredients for Crockpot Pepper Steak
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Sirloin steak (cut into strips) | 2 lbs |
| Minced garlic | 2 teaspoons |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Hot water | â cup |
| Beef bouillon cube | 1 |
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Chopped onion | 1 cup |
| Soy sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 teaspoons |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Bell peppers (sliced) | 2 (red, green, or yellow) |
đ©âđł How to Make Crockpot Pepper Steak: Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Steak for Flavor
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- Add the steak strips and 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, sautĂ©ing until lightly browned (about 3â5 minutes). This step locks in flavor and gives the meat a golden crust.
- Transfer the browned meat and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, dissolve 1 beef bouillon cube in â cup of hot water.
- Stir in 1 tablespoon cornstarch until smooth (this thickens the sauce as it cooks).
- Add 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juice), and 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce.
- Mix well and pour the sauce mixture over the steak in the crockpot.
3. Add Onions and Peppers
- Toss in 1 cup of chopped onions and 2 sliced bell peppers (mix red and green for color and flavor).
- Sprinkle with black pepper to taste.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on:
- LOW for 6â8 hours
- or HIGH for 3â4 hours
The steak will become incredibly tender, and the peppers will soften into a savory medley of flavors.
đ Serving Suggestions
This Crockpot Pepper Steak is incredibly versatile and pairs perfectly with:
- Steamed white or jasmine rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option
- Egg noodles or quinoa
For an extra kick, drizzle with a few drops of sriracha or sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.
đ Cooking Tips for the Best Pepper Steak
- Use Sirloin or Flank Steak: These cuts become tender and flavorful after slow cooking.
- Sear Before Slow Cooking: Browning the steak before adding it to the crockpot enhances the flavor depth.
- Donât Add Peppers Too Early: For slightly firmer peppers, add them during the last hour of cooking.
- Customize the Heat: Add a bit of crushed red pepper or a sliced jalapeño if you love spice.
- Add Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add a wonderful umami richness to the dish.
đ„Ą Storing and Reheating
Leftovers? Great newsâthis dish tastes even better the next day!
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
â Health Benefits of Homemade Pepper Steak
- High in protein: Builds and maintains lean muscle
- Rich in antioxidants: Thanks to bell peppers and tomatoes
- Low in processed ingredients: A healthier alternative to takeout
- Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce
đ Why Crockpot Pepper Steak Is a Family Favorite
This recipe checks all the boxes:
- Minimal prep and hands-off cooking
- Flavorful, hearty, and satisfying
- Perfect for meal prep or a lazy Sunday dinner
- Easy to double for larger families or gatherings
With just a few simple ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can create a dish that tastes like it simmered on the stove for hoursâwithout lifting a finger.
đ„ą Final Thoughts: Set It and Forget It Flavor
Crockpot Pepper Steak is the ultimate slow cooker comfort food, combining savory, sweet, and umami flavors in a tender, saucy dish thatâs sure to satisfy. Whether youâre feeding a crowd or planning a week of delicious leftovers, this recipe is a reliable go-to.
Warm, hearty, and filled with wholesome goodness, itâs proof that home-cooked meals donât have to be complicated to be incredibly delicious.