Pepper Steak In A Crock Pot Recipe

There’s nothing quite like coming home to the rich aroma of pepper steak simmering in a crock pot, filling your kitchen with the promise of a hearty, comforting meal. With tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce that’s perfect over rice, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I first discovered this recipe during a particularly busy week, searching for something both simple and satisfying. One bite was all it took for my family to request it on repeat! With just a bit of prep in the morning, dinner practically cooks itself.

Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

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Get ready to fall in love with this stress-free, flavor-packed dinner! Pepper steak in a crock pot takes all the guesswork out of weeknight cooking while delivering a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

First off, this recipe is incredibly easy. Just a few minutes of prep, toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. No need to babysit the stove – your crock pot does all the heavy lifting.

The beef comes out unbelievably tender. Thanks to the low-and-slow cooking process, even more affordable cuts of meat become melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Let’s not forget the bold, tangy-sweet sauce! With a mix of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey, it perfectly complements the juicy bell peppers and savory beef.

Finally, this dish is wonderfully versatile. Serve it over rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes – it pairs beautifully with almost anything. Plus, you can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste buds!

Ingredients Notes

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The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient adds depth and richness, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.

• Beef Strips: The star of the show! I recommend using sirloin or flank steak, as they’re flavorful and become incredibly tender when cooked in a crock pot. Slice the beef into thin strips to ensure even cooking.
• Bell Peppers: You’ll need a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Slice them into strips for a vibrant pop of color in every bite.
• Soy Sauce: This forms the base of the sauce, adding a savory, umami-rich flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce to keep the dish from becoming too salty.
• Honey: Just a touch of honey brings out the natural sweetness of the peppers and balances the tanginess of the soy sauce. You can substitute brown sugar if you prefer.
• Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics elevate the dish with their bold, fragrant flavors. Fresh is best, but minced garlic and ground ginger work in a pinch.
• Cornstarch: To thicken the sauce at the end, you’ll create a simple slurry with cornstarch and water. It gives the sauce a glossy finish that clings perfectly to the beef and peppers.

You’ll also need a crock pot or slow cooker to bring this dish to life – no fancy equipment required!

How To Make Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

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Creating this pepper steak in a crock pot couldn’t be easier. Follow these simple steps for a no-fail dinner your family will love.

1. Prep the Beef
   Start by slicing your sirloin or flank steak into thin strips, about ½ inch wide. Pat the beef dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Beef (Optional)
   For added depth of flavor, quickly sear the beef strips in a hot skillet with a drizzle of oil before adding them to the crock pot. While this step isn’t mandatory, it creates a rich, caramelized layer that enhances the dish.
3. Assemble the Ingredients
   In your crock pot, combine the soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, ginger, and a splash of beef broth. Add the beef strips and toss to coat them evenly in the sauce.
4. Add the Bell Peppers
   Slice your bell peppers into strips and layer them on top of the beef. This keeps them from overcooking and ensures they retain a bit of their natural crunch.
5. Cook Low and Slow
   Set your crock pot to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cook time on low heat ensures the beef becomes tender and flavorful.
6. Thicken the Sauce
   About 20 minutes before serving, create a cornstarch slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir it into the crock pot and let the sauce thicken as it finishes cooking.

Storage Options

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This dish stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: Pepper steak can also be frozen! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

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This recipe is highly adaptable, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef for hearty portobello mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Pineapple Pepper Steak: Toss in a handful of pineapple chunks during the last hour of cooking for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.
• Different Veggies: Try adding zucchini, snap peas, or broccoli for extra veggies and variety.

With these ideas, you can make this dish uniquely yours every time!

Final Thoughts

This pepper steak in a crock pot recipe is the perfect solution for busy nights or when you need a meal that’s equal parts effortless and delicious. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or making it for a crowd, you can’t go wrong with this savory classic.

Give it a try – your kitchen (and your taste buds) will thank you!