Crockpot Pepper Steak (Slow Cooker Pepper Steak)

 

Crockpot Pepper Steak is a classic, comforting dish made with tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows the flavors to blend beautifully while making the meat incredibly soft and juicy.

This recipe is perfect for busy days—you can prepare everything in the morning, let it cook slowly, and come home to a warm, delicious meal ready to serve.

 Ingredients

• 1 to 1.5 pounds (500–700 g) beef steak (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced into thin strips
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger (or fresh ginger)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For Thickening:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by slicing the beef into thin strips. For best results, slice against the grain—this helps keep the meat tender after long cooking.

Cut the bell peppers and onion into strips, and mince the garlic.

2. Optional Step: Sear the Beef

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until lightly browned.

This step is optional, but it adds extra flavor and improves the overall texture of the dish.

3. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot

Transfer the beef into the slow cooker. Then add:

• Bell peppers
• Onion
• Garlic

Spread everything evenly inside the crockpot.

4. Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• Beef broth
• Soy sauce
• Worcestershire sauce
• Brown sugar
• Ginger
• Black pepper
• Salt

Mix well until the sugar dissolves. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables.

5. Slow Cook

Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook:

• On LOW: 6 to 8 hours
• On HIGH: 3 to 4 hours

During this time, the beef will become tender, and the sauce will develop a deep, rich flavor.

6. Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving:

• In a small bowl, mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry
• Pour it into the crockpot and stir gently

Continue cooking for 20–30 minutes until the sauce thickens.

7. Serve

Serve the pepper steak hot over:

• Steamed white rice
• Brown rice
• Noodles

You can also garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor.

 Tips for Best Results

• Choose the Right Cut: Flank steak and sirloin are ideal for slow cooking
• Do Not Overcook Peppers: Add them later if you prefer them slightly crisp
• Boost Flavor: Add a splash of sesame oil or oyster sauce
• Make It Spicy: Add chili flakes or sliced fresh chili peppers
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth

 Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with:

• Stir-fried vegetables
• Garlic rice
• Asian-style noodles
• Simple green salad

 Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2–3 months
• Reheat: Warm in a pan over medium heat or microwave until hot

 Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 320–400 kcal
• Protein: 25–30 g
• Carbohydrates: 12–18 g
• Fat: 15–20 g

 Why This Recipe Is So Popular

• Easy “set it and forget it” method
• Rich, savory, restaurant-style flavor
• Perfect for meal prep
• Family-friendly and customizable