Crockpot Pepper Steak Recipe

Prepare to fall in love with Crockpot Pepper Steak, a comforting and irresistibly flavorful dish that’s as easy as it is impressive. This recipe transforms tender strips of beef and vibrant bell peppers into a savory, saucy main course, all with the hands-off magic of your slow cooker. The result is a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day — perfect for sharing with family or friends around the dinner table. Whether you’re looking for an effortless weeknight meal or a crowd-pleaser to serve at gatherings, this Crockpot Pepper Steak brings bold flavors and colorful appeal with very little effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Crockpot Pepper Steak lies in its simplicity — every ingredient brings something special, from rich umami to colorful crunch. Each component builds layers of flavor and helps create a sauce that’s both silky and satisfying. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and what each adds to the dish:

• Beef sirloin strips or steak (2 lbs): Go for fresh sirloin for tender, juicy bites that soak up the delicious sauce.
• Bell peppers (3 large, any color): Choose a mix of colors for sweetness and a gorgeous, eye-catching presentation.
• Onion (1 large): Sliced onions lend a savory sweetness and break down into the sauce beautifully.
• Garlic cloves (3): Three cloves give your stew a kick of aromatic depth that’s simply irresistible.
• Beef broth (¾ cup): The base of your sauce, delivering a comforting, meaty richness.
• Beef bouillon cubes (3): Crumble them in to intensify the beefy flavor without extra fuss.
• Soy sauce (¼ cup): Essential for saltiness, umami, and a hint of that classic pepper steak taste.
• Worcestershire sauce (2 tsp): Just enough zing and tang to elevate the savory notes.
• Honey (2 tbsp): Balances out the savory and acidic components with a gentle sweetness.
• Ground ginger (1 tsp): A subtle punch of warmth and complexity.
• Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds a gentle but noticeable spice without overpowering the dish.
• Salt (½ tsp): Enlivens all those robust flavors; adjust to taste!
• Cornstarch or flour (2 tbsp): Whisks up a glossy, thick sauce that clings to every bite.

How to Make Crockpot Pepper Steak

Step 1: Create the Flavor-Packed Sauce

Start by making your sauce. Grab a mixing glass and combine the hot beef broth, beef bouillon cubes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, ground ginger, black pepper, salt, and cornstarch or flour. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure to crush the bouillon cubes so they dissolve and blend seamlessly. This savory-sweet mixture is what will give your Crockpot Pepper Steak its addictively rich flavor.

Step 2: Layer the Beef and Veggies

Next, place the beef sirloin strips directly into your slow cooker, spreading them out for even cooking. Pour the freshly mixed sauce over the beef, making sure everything gets well coated. Then, layer the sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic on top. This setup lets the veggies gently steam and release their flavors into the meat and sauce, creating an irresistible aroma as it cooks.

Step 3: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Set your Crockpot to LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, then let the slow cooker work its magic! If your day allows, give everything a gentle stir halfway through cooking to make sure the sauce and vegetables are well distributed. By the end, the beef becomes meltingly tender, and the peppers remain vibrantly colorful yet soft — the hallmark of the ultimate Crockpot Pepper Steak.

Step 4: Stir, Serve, and Savor

Once the cooking time is up, give the stew a good stir to reincorporate any sauce and veggies that have settled. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Then, transfer the Crockpot Pepper Steak to your favorite serving dish. It’s ready to be spooned over freshly cooked rice, twirled with noodles, or served alongside fluffy mashed potatoes. Dig in and enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Pepper Steak

Garnishes

Sprinkling some chopped green onions or fresh parsley over your Crockpot Pepper Steak adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to each bowl. A shake of sesame seeds rounds out the dish with a subtle nutty crunch. If you like a hint of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes on top won’t go amiss!

Side Dishes

This saucy delight shines when served over a mound of steamed white or brown rice, soaking up every drop of that rich gravy. You can also ladle it atop buttery mashed potatoes or serve it alongside egg noodles for a comforting pasta vibe. For a lighter meal, try pairing it with a crisp Asian-style slaw or simple steamed vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve individual portions in wide, shallow bowls and let everyone garnish their own Crockpot Pepper Steak tableside. Or, for something more playful, tuck the beef and peppers into a soft hoagie roll for an unforgettable sandwich. Leftovers can even be wrapped in warm tortillas for a fusion-style pepper steak wrap!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Crockpot Pepper Steak stores beautifully in the fridge, making it a great choice for meal prep. Let any leftovers cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days, and the flavors become even more robust as they mingle.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes like a dream! Scoop the cooled Crockpot Pepper Steak into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (remove as much air as you can), then stash them in the freezer for up to three months. Label everything with the date, so you never forget the delicious treasure waiting for you.

Reheating

To reheat, simply thaw your frozen pepper steak overnight in the fridge, if needed. Warm gently in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave single servings, covering them loosely to prevent splatters. If the sauce thickens up a bit, add a splash of water or beef broth to bring it back to its silky best.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for Crockpot Pepper Steak?

Absolutely! While sirloin is wonderfully tender, flank steak or even round steak will work just fine. Just be sure to slice whichever beef you choose thinly against the grain so it stays nice and tender after slow cooking.

Is it okay to use frozen bell peppers?

Yes! If you only have frozen peppers on hand, add them straight from the freezer. They’ll soften as they cook, though the texture might be a bit softer than fresh. Still, your Crockpot Pepper Steak will taste fantastic.

Can I make Crockpot Pepper Steak gluten free?

You sure can. Use tamari in place of regular soy sauce, and swap the flour for cornstarch or your favorite gluten free thickener. Always double-check that your bouillon cubes are gluten free, too.

What kind of rice is best to serve with this dish?

You really can’t go wrong, but long-grain white rice, jasmine, or even brown rice are classics for soaking up that savory sauce. If you prefer, cauliflower rice is a great low-carb option.

Can I make Crockpot Pepper Steak ahead for a party?

Definitely! Prepare everything the night before, transfer the pot insert to the fridge, and then start cooking on the day of your event. When it’s time to serve, your guests will be met with a heavenly aroma and tender, flavorful beef.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Crockpot Pepper Steak as I am to share it with you. Every bite is a celebration of bold flavors, effortless cooking, and the kind of homey comfort that always brings people together. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for guests — so go ahead, give it a try and savor the magic!

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