There’s nothing quite like coming home to a warm, comforting meal that’s been slowly cooking all day. This crockpot pepper steak recipe delivers just that—a tender, flavorful beef dinner that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. If you love hearty dishes that fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas, this slow cooker pepper steak will quickly become a family favorite.
The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity and depth of flavor. You can set it up in the morning and come back to a perfectly cooked dinner with minimal effort. Plus, the combination of bell peppers and tender beef strips makes it a colorful, wholesome meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless slow cooker preparation means hands-off cooking.
- Tender, juicy beef that melts in your mouth.
- Vibrant bell peppers add color and fresh flavor.
- Rich, savory sauce made from simple pantry ingredients.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious crockpot pepper steak that’s full of flavor and easy to assemble.
- 1.5 pounds flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 3 cups sliced bell peppers (a mix of red, green, and yellow)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours on low or 2.5 hours on high
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (low) or 2 hours 45 minutes (high)
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
How to Make Crockpot Pepper Steak – Hearty Beef Dinner at Home
- Start by thinly slicing the flank steak against the grain into strips about 1/2 inch wide for maximum tenderness.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Quickly sear the beef strips until just browned on the outside—about 2 minutes per side. Transfer the beef to the crockpot.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the crockpot, layering them on top of the beef.
- In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef and vegetables in the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, or on high for 2.5 hours, until the beef is tender and the peppers are soft but still vibrant.
- About 15 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir it into the crockpot to thicken the sauce. Recover and cook for the remaining time.
- Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve hot over steamed rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes for a complete hearty dinner.
Tips for the Best Results
- Slice the beef thinly and against the grain to ensure it stays tender after slow cooking.
- Sear the beef before adding to the crockpot to lock in flavors and improve texture.
- Don’t overcook the peppers to keep some bite and color—they should be soft but not mushy.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control saltiness and adjust seasoning at the end.
- Thicken the sauce with cornstarch slurry near the end to avoid a thin, watery sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover crockpot pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
For longer storage, freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for crockpot pepper steak?
Yes, cuts like sirloin or chuck steak work well. Just make sure to slice the meat thinly against the grain for tenderness, especially when using tougher cuts.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce substitute and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free. This simple swap makes the dish safe for gluten-free diets.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, snap peas, or sliced carrots can add extra texture and nutrition. Just add them in with the peppers and onions.
What should I serve with crockpot pepper steak?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, egg noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes, which help soak up the delicious savory sauce.
