Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crock Pot pepper steak is a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that delivers mouthwatering results. The beef becomes tender and juicy as it slow-cooks, while the bell peppers add a crisp, slightly sweet flavor that complements the savory sauce. The best part? You only need a few simple ingredients, and the slow cooker does all the work for you. Perfect for serving over rice or noodles, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ pounds flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced

• 1 onion, sliced

• 2 bell peppers, sliced (choose any color you prefer)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup beef broth

• ¼ cup soy sauce

• ¼ cup oyster sauce

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for searing)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prep the Steak: Slice the beef into thin strips. If you’re using a tougher cut like flank steak, you can freeze it for 30 minutes before slicing to make it easier to cut thinly.

2. Sear the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef in batches, searing each side for 1-2 minutes. This step helps lock in the flavor and gives the steak a nice caramelized finish.

3. Combine Ingredients: Transfer the seared beef to the Crock Pot. Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, garlic, beef broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and ground black pepper.

4. Cook: Cover the Crock Pot and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are soft.

5. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl. Stir the mixture into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

6. Serve: Once the dish is cooked, serve the pepper steak over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 3-8 hours (depending on Crock Pot settings)

• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the beef with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version.

• Add Spices: For a spicier dish, add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the slow cooker.

• Add Mushrooms: Include sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the pepper steak.

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free.

• Add Veggies: Include other vegetables like carrots, peas, or snow peas for added color and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the pepper steak to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked pepper steak for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

• Reheating: For best results, reheat the dish on the stove over low heat. If it seems too thick, add a little beef broth or water to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

How can I make the pepper steak spicier?

To add spice, include sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce during cooking.

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use sirloin, round steak, or another cut of beef, though flank steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use tamari sauce instead of soy sauce, the recipe becomes gluten-free.

Can I cook this on high in the Crock Pot?

Yes, you can cook this dish on high for 3-4 hours instead of low for 6-8 hours, but be sure to check for tenderness.

What should I serve with pepper steak?

Pepper steak is traditionally served with steamed rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. It also pairs well with a simple green vegetable like broccoli or green beans.

Can I add other vegetables to the Crock Pot?

Yes! Carrots, mushrooms, and peas are great additions to this dish.

How do I prevent the beef from getting tough?

Searing the beef before slow cooking helps lock in the juices and prevent it from becoming tough.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight, then cook the next day.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch with water and add it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I use frozen beef in this recipe?

It’s best to thaw the beef before using it for this recipe to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.

Conclusion

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic, comforting dish with minimal effort. With its tender beef, vibrant peppers, and rich, flavorful sauce, it’s a family favorite that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings for something hearty and delicious.