The moment the first hints of evening chill settle in, I crave something warm and comforting—like a rich, savory Pepper Steak. Picture this: strips of tender beef gently simmered in a slow cooker, capturing the essence of juicy bell peppers and a luscious soy-based sauce. It’s the kind of meal that fills not just your stomach, but your home with an inviting aroma that beckons loved ones to the dinner table.
Whether you’re juggling a busy week or hosting a cozy gathering, this effortless Crock Pot recipe becomes your culinary ally. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you’ll have a dish that’s not only delicious but also allows for versatile adaptations. From gluten-free options to extra veggies, the possibilities are endless. Let’s dive into making a Pepper Steak that not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings warmth to your home!
Why is Pepper Steak a Must-Try?
Comforting, This slow-cooked dish wraps you in warmth, making it perfect for chilly evenings.
Effortless, With minimal prep, it’s a hands-off meal that frees up your time for other activities.
Versatile, You can easily customize with your favorite veggies or make it gluten-free!
Rich, The flavorful combination of beef, soy sauce, and spices creates a sauce you’ll crave.
Crowd-Pleaser, Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, everyone will love this comforting classic!
Pepper Steak Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need for a flavorful Pepper Steak that will have your family coming back for seconds!
For the Steak
- Beef Sirloin or Flank Steak – The star of the show; keeps the dish hearty. Substitution: Stew meat can be used, though it may require longer cooking.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the beef and enhancing its natural flavors.
For the Vegetables
- Bell Peppers – Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant colors; feel free to mix red, yellow, or green.
- Onion – Introduces depth and sweetness; yellow or sweet onions work beautifully here.
For the Sauce
- Soy Sauce – Provides the savory backbone of this Pepper Steak, giving it that umami hit. Substitution: Tamari for gluten-free version.
- Beef Broth – Enhances with moisture and richness, and low-sodium options are available.
- Minced Garlic – Infuses the dish with a lovely aroma and depth of flavor.
- Brown Sugar – Balances the savory notes with a hint of sweetness; maple syrup can make a great alternative.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Offers a kick; adjust to suit your spice preference.
For Thickening
- Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce for an appealing texture. Alternative: Arrowroot powder for a similar effect.
How to Make Pepper Steak
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Slice the Beef: Begin by slicing your beef sirloin or flank steak into thin strips. Season these delectable pieces generously with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
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(Optional) Brown the Beef: For an extra layer of flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and briefly brown the beef strips. Just a couple of minutes on each side will do—this step adds richness!
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Prep the Vegetables: Chop your bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces, approximately 1-inch chunks. This will ensure they cook evenly while infusing the dish with vibrant colors.
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Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes. This savory blend will coat your beef and veggies perfectly.
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Layer the Ingredients: In your slow cooker, place the beef strips at the bottom. Add the chopped onions and bell peppers on top for a colorful layering effect.
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Pour the Sauce: Gently pour the prepared sauce mixture over the layered ingredients, making sure everything is evenly covered. This will meld together beautifully as it cooks.
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Cook Slow: Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and infused with flavors.
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Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine cornstarch with a bit of cold water, then stir it into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving. You’ll end up with a velvety texture!
Optional: Serve over fluffy rice or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Pepper Steak Variations
Feel free to shake things up with these delightful twists that add a personal touch to your comforting Pepper Steak!
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Heat it Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of chili garlic sauce for a delicious kick of spice—perfect for heat lovers.
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Veggie Delight: Toss in additional vegetables like sliced mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli for a colorful and nutritious twist that enhances the dish’s goodness.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce for a soy-free and lighter flavor profile, balancing sweetness with that signature umami taste.
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Gluten-Free: Ensure all sauces and condiments you use are gluten-free certified, including your beef broth—everyone can enjoy this tasty meal!
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Sweet and Sour: For a tangy change, replace brown sugar with pineapple juice and add fresh pineapple chunks in the last hour of cooking for a tropical flair.
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Herb Infusion: Spruce things up by adding fresh herbs like thyme or basil in the last 30 minutes of cooking, creating a fragrant freshness that brightens the dish.
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Different Cuts: Experiment with cuts like round steak or chuck for varying textures and flavors; just note that cooking times may adjust slightly depending on the cut.
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Sauce Variations: Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweeter taste, or try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can slice the beef and chop the bell peppers and onions up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, whisk together your sauce ingredients and keep them separate until you’re ready to cook, preserving the flavors. When you’re set to serve, layer the beef, onions, and peppers in the slow cooker, pour the sauce over, and let it cook as usual. This way, you enjoy the same mouthwatering results with minimal last-minute effort!
What to Serve with Pepper Steak?
To create a complete and satisfying meal, consider these delightful pairings that elevate your slow-cooked Pepper Steak into a memorable dining experience.
- Fluffy Rice: A classic pairing, fluffy rice soaks up the rich sauce, providing a comforting base that balances the savory flavors.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread to mop up every bit of that luscious sauce, enhancing the whole meal with delightful texture.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add a smooth, buttery flavor that complements the hearty beef, making every bite melt in your mouth.
- Steamed Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies, like broccoli or green beans, offers a fresh crunch and vibrant color, lightening the rich dish’s overall flavor.
- Coleslaw: The crisp and tangy contrasts of coleslaw bring a refreshing bite that pairs perfectly with the savory richness of the Pepper Steak.
- Red Wine: A glass of bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the meal’s flavors beautifully and adds a touch of sophistication to your dinner table.
- Fruit Salad: For a light dessert, a refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate and provide a sweet finish to the meal after the savory main course.
- Chocolate Mousse: If you fancy something indulgent, a rich chocolate mousse delivers a velvety closure to your dining experience with its decadent texture.
How to Store and Freeze Pepper Steak
Fridge: Store leftover Pepper Steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Freeze Pepper Steak in individual portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer bags to remove excess air for best quality.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed to restore moisture.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the dish a day in advance for flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when reheated.
Expert Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak
• Slice with Care: Properly slicing the beef into thin strips allows for even cooking and enhances flavor absorption.
• Don’t Skip Browning: While optional, browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker deepens the flavor; just be sure not to overcrowd the pan.
• Cook Low and Slow: If using tougher cuts like stew meat, stick with the full cooking time on low to achieve maximum tenderness in your Pepper Steak.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like carrots or snow peas in the last hour of cooking to retain their crispness and nutrition.
• Thicken the Sauce: For a luxurious finish, mix cornstarch with cold water and add it in the last 30 minutes if you prefer a thicker sauce.
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot Recipe FAQs
What kind of beef should I use for Pepper Steak?
Absolutely! I recommend using beef sirloin or flank steak for their tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, stew meat can work too, but keep in mind it might need a longer cooking time to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How should I store leftover Pepper Steak?
Very easily! Once cooled, store your leftover Pepper Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors even on your busy days!
Can I freeze Pepper Steak for later?
Definitely! To freeze, allow the Pepper Steak to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to remove as much air as possible, and it should stay good for up to 3 months.
How do I reheat frozen Pepper Steak?
Reheating is simple! Thaw your frozen portion in the refrigerator overnight, and when you’re ready, reheat it gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go!
What if I want to make this dish gluten-free?
Great question! You can absolutely modify this recipe to be gluten-free. Simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, ensuring that all other ingredients are verified gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy the comforting flavor of your Pepper Steak!
Deliciously Slow-Cooked Pepper Steak for Effortless Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice your beef sirloin or flank steak into thin strips. Season with salt and pepper.
- Optional: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and briefly brown the beef strips for extra flavor.
- Chop your bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes.
- Layer the ingredients in the slow cooker, starting with the beef, then adding the onions and bell peppers.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the ingredients ensuring everything is covered.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender.
- To thicken the sauce, combine cornstarch with cold water and stir it in 30 minutes before serving.