Crockpot Pepper Steak is a delicious and comforting dish that takes minimal effort to prepare while delivering maximum flavor. This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prepping. The combination of tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce creates a delightful meal that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe requires just a few simple steps, allowing you to set it and forget it while the slow cooker does the work.
- Flavorful Dish: With a blend of soy sauce, honey, and spices, this pepper steak recipe is packed with flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over rice, noodles, or even as a filling for wraps; the possibilities are endless!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the colorful presentation and tasty ingredients, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, this dish offers a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. These will ensure smooth preparation and cooking, enhancing your experience in the kitchen.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing glass or bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: The star of this recipe! It allows for hands-off cooking and ensures that your pepper steak becomes tender and flavorful.
- Mixing glass or bowl: Perfect for combining sauce ingredients quickly without spills or mess.
- Cutting board & sharp knife: Essential for preparing your vegetables and slicing meat efficiently.
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 2 lbs beef sirloin strips (or sirloin steak cut into slices)
For the Vegetables
- 3 large colorful bell peppers (sliced thick)
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves
For the Sauce
- 3/4 cup beef broth
- 3 beef bouillon cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp cornstarch (or flour)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe
Step 1: Make the Sauce
Combine hot beef broth, bouillon cubes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, ground ginger, black pepper, salt, and cornstarch/flour in a mixing glass. Stir well until all ingredients are mixed thoroughly and bouillon cubes are crushed.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place beef strips into the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce on top. Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic over the beef.
Step 3: Set Cooking Time
Set your slow cooker to LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. If possible, stir the ingredients halfway through cooking to distribute flavors evenly.
Step 4: Serve Your Dish
Once finished cooking, stir well before transferring to a serving dish. Serve over rice or noodles or alongside mashed or baked potatoes for a complete meal.
Enjoy this flavorful Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe
Serving your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe can elevate the dining experience and make it more enjoyable. Here are some creative suggestions to complement this flavorful dish.
Over Rice
- Steamed White Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the savory sauce perfectly.
- Brown Rice: A healthier alternative that adds a nutty flavor and texture.
With Noodles
- Egg Noodles: Soft and chewy, these noodles absorb flavors well, making each bite delicious.
- Rice Noodles: A gluten-free option that adds a lightness to the meal.
As a Wrap
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh and crunchy wraps filled with pepper steak.
- Tortilla Wraps: Flour or corn tortillas can hold the beef and veggies for a satisfying handheld meal.
On a Bed of Vegetables
- Sautéed Spinach: Lightly cooked spinach provides a nutritious base with a mild flavor.
- Stir-Fried Broccoli: Adds a vibrant color and crunch, balancing the dish nicely.
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe
To enhance your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe, consider these tips for optimal flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh beef and vegetables will impart better taste than frozen or pre-packaged options.
- Cut Evenly: Slice your beef and vegetables uniformly for even cooking and presentation.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the soy sauce or add more honey based on your preference for sweetness or saltiness.
- Add Spice: Incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha for an extra kick if you enjoy heat in your dishes.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the dish to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps flavors meld together.
- Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, ensuring they stay fresh.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrients and pairs well with the savory beef.
- Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice is a filling complement that incorporates vegetables and eggs.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and soak up the delicious sauce.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings freshness with herbs and veggies, ideal for balancing rich flavors.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the sauce left on your plate.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the warm pepper steak.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture.
- Skipping the Beef Broth: Not using beef broth can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always include it for a rich taste.
- Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Filling the slow cooker beyond capacity can cause uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
- Not Stirring: Failing to stir halfway through can leave some ingredients undercooked. Make sure to give everything a gentle mix for even cooking.
- Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Each palate is different; not tasting before serving may result in blandness. Adjust seasonings according to your preference.
- Using Low-Quality Meat: Choosing low-quality beef can affect texture. Opt for good cuts like sirloin for tenderness and flavor.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3–4 days for best quality.
Freezing Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe
- Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between intervals.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cuts of beef in this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like flank steak or tenderloin. Just ensure they are sliced thinly for even cooking.
How do I customize my Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe?
You can add vegetables like snap peas or carrots for extra nutrition and color. Adjust spices based on your taste preference as well.
What side dishes go well with Slow Cooker Pepper Steak?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes. Choose your favorite side!
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
The Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor and versatility. This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings with friends and family. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting seasonings to suit your taste! Give it a try today!
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Crockpot Pepper Steak is a mouthwatering and effortless dish that brings the comfort of home cooking right to your table. This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe combines tender beef sirloin, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce for a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With minimal prep time, you can set it in the slow cooker and enjoy the aroma as it cooks to perfection. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a quick dish, this recipe is both delicious and versatile.
- Total Time: 57 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef sirloin strips
- 3 large bell peppers (sliced)
- 1 large onion (sliced)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3/4 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine hot beef broth, bouillon cubes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, ground ginger, black pepper, salt, and cornstarch. Stir until well blended.
- Place beef strips in the slow cooker; pour the sauce over them. Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic.
- Set your slow cooker on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Stir halfway through if possible.
- After cooking time ends, stir well before serving over rice or noodles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours on LOW (or 3 hours on HIGH)
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 764mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For added spice, consider incorporating red pepper flakes. Substitute lean cuts of meat like flank steak if desired. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
