There’s something so satisfying about the tender, juicy bites of pepper steak cooked to perfection in a crock pot. The combination of savory beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, flavorful sauce is a true comfort food classic.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy season in my life, and it quickly became a go-to dinner for its ease and deliciousness. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning leftovers for the week, this dish is a winner. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak In A Crock Pot Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite slow cooker dinner. This pepper steak recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly convenient for any lifestyle.

First off, it’s the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal. With just a few minutes of prep time in the morning, you’ll come home to a dinner that’s ready to serve, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

The flavors are unbeatable. The slow cooking process allows the beef to soak up every ounce of the rich, tangy sauce, while the peppers add a burst of freshness and color that makes each bite irresistible.

It’s a budget-friendly option for feeding the family. Using affordable cuts of beef and pantry staples means you can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Best of all, it’s versatile. Serve it over rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes for a customizable dish that fits your mood and pantry staples.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this pepper steak recipe lies in the harmonious combination of simple ingredients that come together to create a flavorful masterpiece.

Beef strips are the star of the dish. Look for cuts like sirloin or flank steak, which hold up well during slow cooking and become melt-in-your-mouth tender. Slice them thinly for even cooking.

Bell peppers add a pop of color and sweetness. I like to use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for visual appeal and balanced flavor, but any combination works beautifully.

Onions provide a savory base for the sauce. Yellow onions are my go-to for their mild, sweet flavor, but white or red onions can be used if preferred.

The sauce is a blend of soy sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste, with a touch of brown sugar for sweetness. This combination creates a rich, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor profile that ties the dish together.

If you have one, a crock pot or slow cooker is essential. It ensures the beef cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors over time, resulting in a dish that’s deeply satisfying.

How To Make This Pepper Steak In A Crock Pot

This recipe couldn’t be easier to prepare. With just a few steps, you’ll have a meal that practically cooks itself.

Start by slicing your beef strips and vegetables. Cut the beef into thin slices, about ¼ inch thick, and your peppers and onions into strips. This ensures everything cooks evenly in the crock pot.

In a small bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients. Combine soy sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, and a pinch of garlic powder. Stir until smooth and set aside.

Layer the beef and vegetables in your crock pot. Start with the beef, then add the onions and peppers on top. Pour the sauce over everything, ensuring the beef and veggies are evenly coated.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The beef should be fork-tender, and the sauce should have thickened slightly.

For an optional finishing touch, mix a slurry of cornstarch and water, then stir it into the crock pot about 30 minutes before serving. This will give the sauce a glossy, velvety texture.

Serve over steamed rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a complete, satisfying meal.

Storage Options

Leftovers store beautifully, making this recipe perfect for meal prep or busy weeks.

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making the dish even more delicious the next day.

For longer storage, freeze the cooled pepper steak in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This pepper steak recipe is wonderfully versatile, making it easy to adapt to your preferences or what you have on hand.

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to the sauce.

If you prefer a lighter version, substitute low-sodium soy sauce and use leaner cuts of beef like top round.

For a gluten-free option, use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.

Want to switch up the protein? Try using chicken or pork instead of beef for a delicious twist.

Feel free to add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas for added texture and flavor.

No matter how you make it, this pepper steak in a crock pot recipe is a surefire way to create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Give it a try, and prepare to add it to your list of family favorites!