The gentle sizzle of steak hitting the hot skillet is captivating, but there’s something magical about the slow simmer of Crock Pot Pepper Steak that I can’t resist. This dish not only brings together tender beef and colorful bell peppers, but it also envelops them in a savory soy sauce that transforms an ordinary meal into a cozy feast. With minimal hands-on time, this recipe is a game-changer for those busy evenings, allowing you to prepare a comforting spread with ease. Plus, it’s completely customizable, meaning you can switch up flavors or add your favorite veggies to keep things exciting. Curious to discover how this delightful comfort food can become your go-to weeknight dinner? Let’s dive in!
Why is Crock Pot Pepper Steak a must-try?
Effortless Cooking: With just a quick prep, your Crock Pot takes over!
Savory Goodness: The rich blend of soy sauce and spices makes every bite delectable.
Customizable Flavors: Feel free to play with additional veggies or spices for a twist.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch and enjoy it throughout the week!
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this dish.
If you’re craving more comforting recipes, check out my Pepper Steak Bell or explore the flavors of Korean Bbq Steak.
Crock Pot Pepper Steak Ingredients
Unlock the flavors of this comforting dish with the perfect ingredient blend!
For the Steak
- Flank or Sirloin Steak – 2 lbs, sliced thin; choose flank for a tender bite and slice against the grain for optimal tenderness.
For the Veggies
- Bell Peppers – 1 green, 1 red, 1 yellow, sliced; these not only add vibrant color but also natural sweetness—feel free to mix colors for more appeal!
- Yellow Onion – 1, sliced; enhances the dish with depth and sweetness, but can be swapped for red onion to add a bolder flavor.
For the Sauce
- Low Sodium Soy Sauce – 1/3 cup; it brings savory depth, but if you’re watching salt, coconut aminos is a great alternative.
- Minced Garlic – 1 tbsp; fresh garlic is best for an aromatic boost.
- Ground Ginger – 1 tsp; adds warmth; freshly grated ginger will elevate the taste even more!
- Brown Sugar – 1 tbsp; balances out the salty notes of the sauce; honey works beautifully here too.
- Beef Broth – 1 cup; it creates a rich base for your sauce; vegetable broth is a lighter substitute.
For Thickening
- Cornstarch – 2 tbsp, mixed with 2 tbsp water; this slurry thickens the sauce; stir it in during the last 30 minutes for best results.
With these ingredients, your Crock Pot Pepper Steak will transform into a heartwarming dish that’s sure to satisfy!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Pepper Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Start by slicing 2 lbs of flank or sirloin steak against the grain into thin strips. This technique ensures tenderness in every bite. Once sliced, place the beef in your crock pot as the foundation of your savory Crock Pot Pepper Steak.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, layer in 1 green, 1 red, and 1 yellow bell pepper, all sliced, along with 1 sliced yellow onion. The vibrant colors will enhance the visual appeal while adding natural sweetness. Pour in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger. This combination infuses the dish with aromatic flavors!
Step 3: Mix the Sauce Ingredients
Pour 1/3 cup of low sodium soy sauce evenly over the ingredients in the crock pot. Then, add 1 cup of beef broth and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of brown sugar to balance the flavors. Stir gently to combine all these elements, ensuring the beef and veggies are coated in the savory sauce for the best flavor.
Step 4: Set the Cooking Temperature
Cover your crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a tender and flavorful Crock Pot Pepper Steak. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
In the final 30 minutes of cooking, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this thickening agent into the crock pot, making sure to distribute it evenly. This step will give the sauce a rich texture and help it cling to the meat and veggies.
Step 6: Serve the Dish
Once the cooking time is complete, give everything a gentle stir, and it’s time to serve your delightful Crock Pot Pepper Steak. Ladle the mixture over rice or noodles, allowing the sauce to soak in. Garnish as desired—perhaps with chopped green onions or sesame seeds—to add that final touch!
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Pepper Steak
Fridge: Store leftover Crock Pot Pepper Steak in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for 2-3 months. Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain the best texture.
Reheating: To enjoy your frozen leftovers, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth for moisture if needed.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare your Crock Pot Pepper Steak a day in advance and refrigerate before cooking. It enhances the flavors and saves you time when you’re ready to serve!
Helpful Tricks for Crock Pot Pepper Steak
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Slice Against the Grain: Always slice your steak against the grain to keep it tender. This step ensures each bite is easy to chew and packed with flavor.
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Browning the Meat: Consider searing the steak before adding it to the crock pot. Browning enhances the depth of flavor, taking your Crock Pot Pepper Steak to the next level!
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Add Peppers Later: If you prefer your peppers with a bit of crunch, toss them in halfway through the cook time instead of at the beginning. This will help maintain their vibrant texture.
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Prep Ahead: Make your meal prep a breeze by assembling the ingredients the night before. Just pop them in the fridge overnight, and they’re ready to cook in the morning!
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Thickening the Sauce: Ensure your cornstarch slurry is thoroughly mixed before adding it in the final 30 minutes. This prevents clumping, resulting in a smooth and delicious sauce that clings beautifully to the steak.
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Experiment with Flavors: This recipe is highly customizable! Try adding different spices or vegetables to make your Crock Pot Pepper Steak uniquely yours.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Pepper Steak
The cozy flavors of your Crock Pot Pepper Steak can be beautifully complemented by a variety of delightful sides that enhance this comforting meal.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: A soft and fragrant bed for your pepper steak, jasmine rice absorbs the rich sauce perfectly, making every bite heavenly.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Indulgent and velvety, these potatoes provide a luxurious contrast to the tender beef and vibrant peppers, adding comfort to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread serves as an excellent utensil for scooping up sauce, while its bold flavors enhance the savory notes of the dish.
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Stir-Fried Snow Peas: For a refreshing crunch, these stir-fried peas add a vibrant pop of color and a satisfying texture, balancing the richness of the steak.
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Cauliflower Rice: A lighter alternative, cauliflower rice offers a delicate texture and is perfect for soaking up delicious sauce while keeping the meal low-carb.
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Toasted Hoagie Rolls: Transform your pepper steak into a scrumptious sandwich by placing it in a toasted hoagie roll. Topped with provolone, it makes a delightful yet hearty lunch.
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Roasted Vegetables: Tossed with olive oil and herbs, roasted carrots and zucchini bring earthy flavors and nutritious colors that elevate this comforting dish.
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Crisp Garden Salad: A refreshing salad with crunchy greens and tangy vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing the richness of the pepper steak while keeping your meal light.
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Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: To wash it all down, a glass of sweetened iced tea flavored with citrus or berries perfectly complements the spices in the dish.
Crock Pot Pepper Steak Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe and adjust it to your taste preferences or dietary needs!
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Hoisin Sauce: Replace regular soy sauce with hoisin for a sweeter and richer flavor. This small swap can add an intriguing dimension to your dish.
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Peanut Butter Twist: Stir in a tablespoon of creamy peanut butter for a Thai-inspired flair. The nutty undertones will elevate the flavor and create a pleasant creamy texture.
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Coconut Creamy: Add a splash of coconut milk for a deliciously creamy sauce. This light twist will not only make it richer but also provide a hint of tropical goodness.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in snow peas or baby corn during the last hour of cooking for an added crunch and burst of nutrition. These additions introduce color and freshness, rounding out your meal beautifully.
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Spice It Up: To infuse heat, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper or sliced jalapeños. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance and enjoy a delightful kick!
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Tex-Mex Vibes: Sprinkle in ground cumin for a subtle smoky flavor. This addition will transform your Crock Pot Pepper Steak into a delightful Tex-Mex fiesta!
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Mediterranean Flair: Try including lemon zest and oregano for a refreshing Mediterranean twist that will brighten up the dish. This could be a great complement when served over a bed of couscous!
If you love exploring different flavors, take a look at my French Onion Steak Pinwheels or the delicious Salsa Verde Pepper for more inspiration!
Make Ahead Options
These Crock Pot Pepper Steaks are perfect for busy weeknights and make-ahead meal prep! You can slice the steak and chop the bell peppers, onion, and garlic up to 24 hours in advance—just store them together in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. Mixing the sauce ingredients can also be done ahead of time; simply keep the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic combined until you’re ready to cook. To finish, when you’re ready to serve, layer everything in the crock pot and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, adding the cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes. This way, you can enjoy a warm, flavorful meal with minimal effort!
Crock Pot Pepper Steak Recipe FAQs
What type of steak should I use for Crock Pot Pepper Steak?
For the best results, I recommend using flank or sirloin steak. Slicing against the grain not only helps the meat stay tender but also enhances the overall texture of the dish, giving you that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
How do I store leftovers of my Crock Pot Pepper Steak?
Store your leftover Crock Pot Pepper Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat in a pan or microwave until warmed through. If you’re looking for quick meal options, this makes for an ideal grab-and-go choice!
Can I freeze Crock Pot Pepper Steak for later use?
Absolutely! To freeze, ensure the dish has cooled completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If you find the sauce is thinner than you’d like after cooking, don’t worry! Mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry, just like you did before. Stir it into the sauce and cook on HIGH for another 15-30 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for my Crock Pot Pepper Steak?
If allergies are a concern, keep in mind that soy sauce contains gluten and can be swapped for tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. As for pets, keep this dish out of their reach, as ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats.
How do I enhance the flavors of my Crock Pot Pepper Steak?
Feel free to get creative! For a deeper flavor, you can sear the steak before adding it to the crock pot. Additionally, consider adding spices like cumin for a Tex-Mex twist or even a splash of pineapple juice for a hint of sweetness. Experimenting with vegetables is also encouraged—try throwing in some snow peas or baby corn during the last hour of cooking!
Crock Pot Pepper Steak: A Savory, Effortless Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice 2 lbs of flank or sirloin steak thin against the grain and place in the crock pot.
- Layer in the sliced green, red, and yellow bell peppers, along with the sliced yellow onion, minced garlic, and ground ginger.
- Pour in the low sodium soy sauce, beef broth, and add brown sugar; stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
- In the final 30 minutes, mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the crock pot to thicken the sauce.
- Once cooking is complete, serve over rice or noodles, garnishing as desired.
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