Crockpot Pepper Steak

If you’re looking for a savory, melt-in-your-mouth dinner that requires minimal effort, then the Crockpot Pepper Steak is the perfect solution! This easy slow cooker recipe combines tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce, making it a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any occasion.

What is Crockpot Pepper Steak?

Crockpot Pepper Steak is a slow-cooked dish made with strips of beef steak, bell peppers, onions, and a savory sauce. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ease of preparation. The slow cooking process ensures that the beef becomes incredibly tender, and the bell peppers and onions absorb all the rich flavors of the sauce. Whether served over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, this dish makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Crockpot Pepper Steak

To make this delicious Crockpot Pepper Steak, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 1/4 cup of beef broth
• 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the flavors)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

How to Make Crockpot Pepper Steak

1. Prepare the Beef: Begin by slicing the steak into thin strips. This helps the beef cook evenly and become tender in the slow cooker.
2. Sear the Beef (Optional): In a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil and sear the steak strips for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step is optional, but it adds a nice depth of flavor.
3. Add Ingredients to the Crockpot: Once the beef is seared, transfer it to the Crockpot. Add the sliced onion, red and green bell peppers, and minced garlic.
4. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, oyster sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the Crockpot.
5. Slow Cook: Cover the Crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it, the more tender the beef will become.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the slurry into the Crockpot and let it cook until the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve: Serve the Crockpot Pepper Steak over steamed rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, for an added touch.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pepper Steak Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps and minimal prep, this recipe is a perfect choice for busy days when you want a delicious homemade meal without spending too much time in the kitchen.
• Tender and Flavorful Beef: The slow cooker works its magic, turning tough cuts of beef into melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, infusing the steak with all the rich flavors of the sauce.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the recipe to your taste. You can add more vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini, or even swap the beef for chicken or pork.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is a hit with both adults and kids alike, making it a great option for family dinners.

Tips for the Best Crockpot Pepper Steak

• Cutting the Beef: Make sure to slice the beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Use Fresh Bell Peppers: Fresh bell peppers will add a nice crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
• Adjust the Sauce: If you like your sauce a little sweeter, increase the sugar slightly, or if you prefer a more savory dish, reduce the sugar and add a dash of hot sauce for some spice.

Crockpot Pepper Steak Variations

• Spicy Pepper Steak: For a spicy twist, add some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Mushroom Lover’s Pepper Steak: Add sliced mushrooms to the Crockpot along with the peppers for an earthy addition.
• Beef and Broccoli Pepper Steak: Toss in some broccoli florets during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a beef-and-broccoli twist.

Conclusion

Crockpot Pepper Steak is the ultimate slow-cooked comfort food, offering tender beef and flavorful vegetables in a rich, savory sauce. It’s a simple, hands-off meal that delivers big on taste and satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Try it tonight, and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal!

Serving and Storage Tips for Crockpot Pepper Steak

Serving Tips:

1. Pair with Rice or Noodles: Crockpot Pepper Steak is best served over a bed of steamed white or brown rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes. These sides soak up the savory sauce, making each bite even more delicious.
2. Garnish for Extra Flavor: Add a garnish of fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley, cilantro, or green onions, for a burst of freshness and color. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a nice texture and flavor contrast.
3. Vegetable Side Dishes: To complete your meal, serve Crockpot Pepper Steak alongside a simple vegetable dish like sautéed greens, steamed broccoli, or a side salad for a balanced plate.
4. Serve as a Wrap or Sandwich: For a creative twist, serve the pepper steak in a tortilla wrap or as a sandwich, adding some fresh lettuce or cheese for extra flavor.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: After your meal, allow the Crockpot Pepper Steak to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the pepper steak. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
3. Reheating: To reheat leftovers, warm the pepper steak on the stove over low heat with a splash of beef broth or water to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave individual servings in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
4. Avoid Overcooking Leftovers: When reheating, be mindful not to overcook the beef, as it may become tough. Always heat just until warm to preserve the tenderness of the meat.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Crockpot Pepper Steak for multiple meals, making it a convenient and delicious choice for busy days.

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for Crockpot Pepper Steak?
Yes! While flank steak or sirloin is commonly used for this recipe, you can also use other cuts of beef such as round steak, chuck roast, or even stew meat. Just be sure to slice the meat thinly, or if using tougher cuts, allow for a longer cooking time to achieve that tender texture.

2. Can I make Crockpot Pepper Steak with chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! If you prefer chicken, you can substitute the beef with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Simply cut the chicken into strips or cubes and follow the same cooking instructions. The result will be a delicious chicken pepper steak variation.

3. Can I add more vegetables to the recipe?
Yes, feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your dish. Add the vegetables at the same time as the bell peppers, or if they cook faster, you can add them halfway through the cooking process.

4. How do I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce for your Crockpot Pepper Steak, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Add this mixture to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking and stir until the sauce thickens to your liking. Alternatively, you can cook the sauce uncovered for a bit longer to reduce it naturally.

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