There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot filling your home. With its tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and savory sauce, this dish is as flavorful as it is easy to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this slow-cooked masterpiece requires minimal effort and delivers maximum taste.

I first discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week, and it’s been a lifesaver ever since. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal-prepping for the week, this is one dish you’ll want to make again and again. Let’s dive in and explore why this Pepper Steak recipe is a must-try!

Why You'll Love This Pepper Steak In A Crock Pot

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite slow-cooker recipe. This Pepper Steak is a game-changer, delivering delicious results with minimal prep time.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. The crock pot does all the heavy lifting, so you can set it and forget it while tackling your to-do list. This is a perfect meal for busy days when you don’t have time to babysit the stove.

Not only is it easy, but it’s also packed with bold, rich flavors. The slow cooking process allows the beef to absorb the savory sauce while the peppers soften and sweeten, creating a harmony of tastes that’s hard to resist.

Plus, this recipe is wonderfully versatile. You can customize the vegetables, adjust the spice level, or swap out the protein for a completely different twist.

Lastly, cleanup is a breeze. Everything cooks in one pot, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component brings something unique to the table, ensuring a perfectly balanced dish every time.

Beef: Opt for beef strips, such as sirloin or flank steak, for the best texture and flavor. These cuts become incredibly tender when slow-cooked, practically melting in your mouth.

Bell Peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow peppers adds both color and sweetness to the dish. Feel free to use just one color if that’s what you have on hand.

Soy Sauce and Worcestershire Sauce: These pantry staples create the savory base of the sauce. Together, they add depth and umami to the dish.

Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger elevate the flavor profile, adding a subtle kick of spice and warmth. If you’re in a pinch, powdered versions will work too.

Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce at the end of cooking, it ensures every bite is coated in a silky, flavorful glaze.

If you have a crock pot with a sauté function, you can sear the beef directly in the pot to deepen the flavors. Otherwise, a skillet works just fine.

How To Make This Pepper Steak In A Crock Pot

Creating this comforting dish is straightforward and fuss-free. With a few easy steps, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready to enjoy.

Start by preparing your ingredients. Slice the beef into thin strips, keeping them uniform for even cooking. Similarly, cut the bell peppers into thick slices so they retain some texture after slow cooking.

If your crock pot has a sauté function, heat a bit of oil and quickly sear the beef strips on all sides. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of flavor. Once done, transfer the beef to a plate.

Add the beef, sliced bell peppers, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, ginger, and a bit of beef broth to the crock pot. Stir everything gently to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.

Set your crock pot to low and cook for 6-7 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir it into the crock pot to thicken the sauce. Let it cook until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Serve your pepper steak over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage Options

This Pepper Steak is just as good the next day, making it a great choice for leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, so it might taste even better the next day!

Freezer: For longer storage, transfer the cooled pepper steak to a freezer-safe container or bag. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label it with the date.

Reheating: To reheat, place the pepper steak in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in 1-minute increments, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit your preferences. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:

Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Different Proteins: Swap the beef for chicken, pork, or even tofu for a unique twist on the dish.

Vegetarian Option: Replace the beef with mushrooms or seitan, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free.

Extra Veggies: Throw in additional vegetables like onions, zucchini, or snap peas for added texture and nutrition.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Whether you stick to the classic version or try something new, this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy!