Crockpot Pepper Steak Recipe: Hearty Beef Dinner Made Easy

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that’s both easy and packed with flavor, this crockpot pepper steak recipe is exactly what you need. Slow cooking tender strips of beef with vibrant bell peppers in a rich, savory sauce brings out incredible taste with minimal effort.

this Recipe

Whether you’re busy during the week or just want a delicious home-cooked dinner waiting for you, crockpot pepper steak fits the bill perfectly. You’ll love how the flavors meld beautifully and the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after hours in the slow cooker.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless slow cooking – just prep and let the crockpot do the work
• Hearty, tender beef strips bursting with flavor and juiciness
• Colorful bell peppers add freshness, texture, and nutrients
• Perfect for weeknights or meal prepping with easy leftovers
• Versatile served over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious crockpot pepper steak that serves four.

• 1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 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 (for cornstarch slurry)
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high
• Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes to 5 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving

How to Make Crockpot Pepper Steak – Hearty Beef Dinner at Home

1. Prepare the beef: Slice the sirloin into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. Season with salt and black pepper.
2. Brown the beef: Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef strips in batches and quickly sear until browned on all sides, about 2 minutes per batch. Transfer to the crockpot.
3. Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant. Transfer to the crockpot.
4. Make the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, and ground black pepper. Pour over beef and vegetables in the crockpot.
5. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until beef is tender and flavors meld.
6. Thicken the sauce: About 15 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry. Stir into the crockpot, cover, and cook on high for another 15 minutes until sauce thickens.
7. Serve and garnish: Spoon the pepper steak over steamed rice or egg noodles. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use a good quality sirloin or flank steak for tenderness and flavor.
• Don’t skip browning the beef; it adds important depth to the dish.
• Slice peppers uniformly to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker model for best texture.
• For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover crockpot pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even better.

For longer storage, freeze the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts like round steak or chuck steak, but sirloin or flank steak remains the best for tenderness. Just adjust cooking time to ensure it becomes tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe on the stovetop instead?

Absolutely! You can sauté the beef and vegetables in a skillet and then simmer everything with the sauce on low heat for about 30-40 minutes until tender, stirring often to prevent sticking.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Also, verify that Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free or substitute with a gluten-free alternative.

What should I serve with crockpot pepper steak?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed white or brown rice, egg noodles, or even creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.