Sizzling Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Beef lovers rejoice as this pepper steak in a crock pot recipe promises a mouthwatering meal that melts in your mouth.

Tender strips of beef simmered with vibrant bell peppers create a hearty and flavorful dish.

The slow cooker works its magic, infusing every bite with rich, savory goodness.

Juicy meat becomes incredibly tender as it cooks low and slow throughout the day.

Colorful bell peppers add a delightful crunch and bright flavor to this classic comfort meal.

Minimal prep work means you can enjoy a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Serve this pepper steak over steaming rice for a complete and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Pepper Steak Crock Pot Appeal

• Slow-Cook Simplicity: Minimal prep work and hands-off cooking make this pepper steak a dream for busy home cooks who want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Flavor-Packed Comfort: The combination of soy sauce, brown sugar, and aromatic spices creates a rich, deeply satisfying taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Family-Friendly Favorite: This versatile dish appeals to both adults and kids, offering a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and a savory sauce that can be easily served over rice or noodles.
• Meal Prep Champion: Perfect for making ahead, this recipe stores and reheats wonderfully, making it an excellent option for meal planning and quick weeknight dinners.

What’s Needed for Pepper Steak

• Beef Strips: Tender meat that creates the base of this hearty slow-cooked dish.

• Bell Peppers, Onions: Colorful vegetables that add sweetness and texture to the pepper steak.

• Soy Sauce: Provides a rich, savory flavor base for the dish.
• Water: Helps create the necessary liquid for slow cooking.
• Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• Garlic: Brings a deep, aromatic flavor to the sauce.
• Black Pepper: Provides a classic peppery kick to the steak.
• Ginger: Offers a warm, slightly spicy undertone to the overall flavor.

• Cornstarch: Helps create a smooth, glossy sauce by thickening the liquid.

• Oil: Used for searing the beef to lock in flavor and create a nice brown crust.

• Rice, Noodles: Ideal base for serving the pepper steak and absorbing the delicious sauce.

Slow Cooking Steps for Pepper Steak

Step 1: Sear The Beef

Heat a skillet with oil and quickly brown beef strips on all sides to lock in rich, deep flavors.

This quick searing process creates a beautiful caramelized exterior that enhances the meat’s taste and texture.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients In Crock Pot

Transfer the seared beef into the slow cooker and add colorful bell peppers and onions.

The vegetables will release their natural sweetness during cooking, creating a mouthwatering base for the dish.

Step 3: Create Flavor-Packed Sauce

• Soy sauce
• Water
• Brown sugar
• Minced garlic
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Grated ginger

Pour this vibrant sauce over the beef and vegetables, ensuring every piece is generously coated.

Step 4: Slow Cook To Perfection

Allow the crock pot to work its magic by cooking on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours.

The slow cooking process will transform the beef into tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites.

Step 5: Thicken The Sauce

During the final 30 minutes of cooking, create a smooth cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a small amount of water.

Stir this into the crock pot to create a luscious, glossy sauce that clings perfectly to the meat and vegetables.

Step 6: Serve And Enjoy

Dish out the pepper steak over fluffy rice or tender noodles.

The combination of succulent beef, sweet peppers, and rich sauce will make this a family favorite.

Crock Pot Pepper Steak Tips and Tricks

• Brown beef strips quickly in a hot skillet to seal in juices and create a rich, caramelized exterior before slow cooking.
• Gradually add cornstarch slurry and stir carefully to prevent lumps and achieve your desired sauce thickness.
• Select flank steak or sirloin for the most tender and succulent pepper steak results in the crock pot.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels without sacrificing the classic Asian-inspired flavor profile.
• Add bell peppers during the last hour of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and slight crispness.

Pepper Steak Variations for Bold Flavor

• Spicy Asian Pepper Steak: Replace black pepper with red chili flakes and add sriracha sauce for extra heat. Use Thai-inspired seasonings like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves.
• Gluten-Free Pepper Steak: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Use arrowroot powder instead of cornstarch for thickening. Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Mediterranean Herb Pepper Steak: Swap bell peppers with roasted red peppers. Add oregano, rosemary, and a splash of red wine. Use olive oil instead of vegetable oil for cooking.
• Lean Protein Pepper Steak: Use turkey or chicken strips instead of beef. Reduce brown sugar and add more herbs like thyme and parsley for enhanced flavor profile.

Pepper Steak Serving Suggestions

• Cozy Family Dinner Centerpiece: Create a warm, inviting dinner spread by serving the pepper steak over fluffy white rice or tender egg noodles for a hearty meal that brings everyone together.
• Weekend Meal Prep Champion: Portion out leftovers in meal prep containers for quick lunches during the week, pairing perfectly with a side of steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad.
• Restaurant-Style Presentation: Garnish with fresh chopped green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to elevate the dish and add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
• Asian-Inspired Side Kick: Complement the pepper steak with a small side of cucumber salad or quick-pickled vegetables to balance the rich, savory flavors of the main dish.

Storing Pepper Steak in the Fridge

• Transfer cooled pepper steak to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture loss and absorption of other food odors.
• Pack the steak in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2-3 months to maintain optimal flavor and texture.
• Place pepper steak in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few drops of water to prevent drying, and cover with a microwave-safe lid. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even warming.

FAQs

• What makes the beef tender in this recipe?

Searing the beef strips before slow cooking helps lock in moisture and break down tough fibers, ensuring a tender and flavorful result.

• Can I use different types of peppers?

Yes, you can substitute bell peppers with poblano, anaheim, or even spicier peppers like jalapeños to customize the heat and flavor profile.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

• How can I reduce the sodium content?

Use low-sodium soy sauce, reduce the amount of added salt, and balance flavors with herbs and spices like fresh ginger or garlic.

Pepper Steak In A Crock Pot Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.5 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Savory pepper steak simmers to tender perfection in this delightful slow cooker classic, bringing rich Chinese-inspired flavors to your dinner table. Hearty beef strips mingle with colorful bell peppers, creating a comforting meal you’ll crave again and again.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat:

• 2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into strips
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

Vegetables:

• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings and Liquids:

• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ginger (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Brown beef strips in a skillet over medium-high heat until caramelized and golden on all surfaces, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
2. Transfer seared beef into the slow cooker, creating an even layer at the bottom of the pot.
3. Scatter sliced bell peppers and onions uniformly over the beef, ensuring even distribution.
4. Whisk together soy sauce, water, brown sugar, minced garlic, freshly ground black pepper, and grated ginger in a separate mixing bowl.
5. Pour the seasoned liquid mixture directly over the beef and vegetables, making sure all ingredients are coated.
6. Cover the crock pot and set to low temperature, allowing the pepper steak to simmer and tenderize for 6-7 hours.
7. During the final 30 minutes of cooking, create a cornstarch slurry by blending cornstarch with a small amount of cold water until smooth.
8. Gently stir the cornstarch mixture into the crock pot, which will gradually thicken the sauce and create a glossy texture.
9. Once the meat is fork-tender and sauce has reached desired consistency, remove from heat.
10. Plate the pepper steak over steamed rice or tender noodles, garnishing with optional fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

• Choose lean beef cuts like sirloin or flank steak for a tender and less fatty pepper steak.
• Allow extra cooking time if using tougher meat cuts to ensure maximum tenderness and breakdown of muscle fibers.
• Searing beef strips before slow cooking creates deep caramelized flavors and locks in rich, meaty juices.
• Adjust seasoning levels by reducing soy sauce for lower sodium diets or using low-sodium alternatives to accommodate health-conscious preferences.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7 hours
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 330 kcal
• Sugar: 10 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 75 mg