Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

If you’ve been searching for a dependable way to enjoy juicy, tender beef loaded with bold flavors, this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe is your new go-to. Bursting with the savory essence of bell peppers, onions, and a rich, peppery sauce, this dish blends convenience with comfort perfectly. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, producing consistently delicious results that make weeknight dinners a breeze and impress guests without stress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply combine ingredients in your slow cooker and walk away, letting it do the magic all day long.
• Consistently Tender Beef: Slow cooking breaks down tough cuts, making every bite buttery soft and flavorful.
• Vibrant, Healthy Veggies: Bell peppers and onions retain their color and add a fresh crunch, balancing the richness of the beef.
• Family-Friendly Flavor: A savory sauce with just the right peppery kick makes it a comforting hit for all ages.
• Versatility: Serve over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a meal that fits your mood and pantry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe relies on simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a rich, savory dish packed with flavor and color. Each component enhances the overall taste, from the beef’s hearty depth to the peppers’ sweetness and the sauce’s signature peppery zest.

• Beef Strips: Use flank or sirloin steak sliced thinly for optimal tenderness and flavor absorption.
• Bell Peppers: A mix of green, red, and yellow peppers adds vibrant color and subtle sweetness to the dish.
• Onions: Sliced onions offer a savory crunch and balance the pepper’s brightness.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings a warm, aromatic depth essential for slow-cooked meals.
• Beef Broth: Provides a rich base for the sauce to ensure it’s flavorful and moist.
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami complexity and a slightly salty finish that enhances all the other flavors.
• Black Pepper: The star spice that gives the dish its distinctive peppery bite.
• Cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce, making it glossy and cling perfectly to meat and vegetables.
• Cooking Oil: A small amount for browning the beef and boosting flavor.

Variations for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

One of the best parts of this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe is how flexible it is. Feel free to tailor it according to your dietary preferences, what’s in your fridge, or your flavor cravings. Here are some variations to inspire your next cooking adventure.

• Spicy Upgrade: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist on the classic recipe.
• Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and broth to keep salt in check without sacrificing taste.
• Vegetarian Swap: Replace beef with seitan or firm tofu and use vegetable broth for an equally delicious plant-based meal.
• Different Peppers: Try using poblano or Anaheim peppers for a smoky flavor profile.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots to boost nutrition and texture variety.

How to Make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by slicing your beef into thin strips against the grain; this ensures tenderness after slow cooking. Quickly brown the strips in a hot skillet with a little oil to develop deep flavor and lock in juices before adding to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

While the beef is browning, slice bell peppers and onions into even strips. This uniformity helps everything cook evenly, allowing the vegetables to retain just the right amount of crunch and color.

Step 3: Mix the Sauce

Combine beef broth, soy sauce, minced garlic, and freshly ground black pepper in a bowl. This simple sauce is the heart of the dish, marrying rich umami flavors with a vibrant peppery kick.

Step 4: Assemble in the Slow Cooker

Layer the browned beef, peppers, and onions inside the slow cooker, then pour the sauce on top. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients, but don’t overmix—the slow cooker will handle the rest.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Set your slow cooker to low and allow the pepper steak to cook for 6 to 8 hours. This slow, steady heat tenderizes the beef and melds the flavors beautifully.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce. Cover and let it cook until the sauce becomes glossy and perfectly coats the meat and veggies.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

• Choose the Right Cut: Use flank, sirloin, or round steak for tender results without breaking the bank.
• Brown Before Slow Cooking: Searing the beef adds richness and depth that slow cooking alone can’t achieve.
• Add Vegetables Later: If you prefer crunchier peppers, add them halfway through cooking to avoid over-softening.
• Use Fresh Black Pepper: Grinding fresh pepper dramatically enhances the dish’s signature flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Whether browning or layering, don’t pack too much — even cooking is key.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top for brightness and color contrast. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice right before serving can also lift the flavors and add a fresh zing.

Side Dishes

Serve this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak over steamed white or brown rice for a classic pairing. Alternatively, buttery mashed potatoes absorb the delicious sauce beautifully. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables work wonderfully as well.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn it into a pepper steak bowl by layering rice, the slow cooker mixture, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Wrap leftovers in warm tortillas with some shredded cheese for tasty pepper steak tacos anyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Slow Cooker Pepper Steak to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This makes for a fantastic next-day meal that often tastes even better as the flavors continue to meld.

Freezing

Portion the pepper steak into freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some headspace and squeeze out air to prevent freezer burn, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can substitute chicken strips, pork tenderloin, or even plant-based protein alternatives to suit your preferences.

How long should I cook Slow Cooker Pepper Steak on high?

If short on time, cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, but low and slow cooking yields the most tender results and richer flavors.

Is Slow Cooker Pepper Steak spicy?

The classic version has a gentle peppery heat that’s flavorful but not overly spicy, making it family-friendly. Adjust pepper levels or add spicy elements to taste.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can chop ingredients and even sear the beef the night before, then refrigerate everything separately or combined to start slow cooking the next day.

What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker near the end of cooking to create a luscious, thick sauce that clings beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a game changer when you want a comforting, flavorful dinner with minimal hassle. Its tender beef, vibrant peppers, and peppery sauce come together effortlessly with the magic of slow cooking. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite you return to time and again.

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