Pepper Steak In A Crock Pot Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot filling your home after a long day. This dish brings together tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce that practically begs to be ladled over a bed of rice or noodles.

The first time I made this recipe, I was amazed at how effortless it was. With just a little prep in the morning, dinner was ready and waiting when I walked through the door. It's become a family staple, especially on those days when life feels a little too hectic. Let me show you why this recipe is about to become your favorite go-to meal.

Why You'll Love This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Get ready to fall in love with this easy, flavor-packed dish. Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is the perfect recipe for busy days when you want a delicious dinner with minimal effort.

First, it’s a true time-saver. With just 15 minutes of prep work, you can set it and forget it, letting your crock pot do all the heavy lifting while you tackle your to-do list.

It’s also budget-friendly! Using affordable cuts of beef like flank steak or sirloin ensures you get a tender, hearty meal without breaking the bank. Add in simple pantry staples for the sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s as economical as it is tasty.

Plus, it’s endlessly versatile. Whether you prefer it served over rice, mashed potatoes, or even tucked into a hoagie roll, this pepper steak adapts beautifully to whatever your family loves most.

Finally, the leftovers reheat like a dream. This dish is one of those rare meals that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or weekday lunches.

Let’s dive into the ingredients that make this dish so irresistible!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of carefully chosen ingredients, you’ll create a meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Beef: The star of the show is thinly sliced beef. I love using flank steak or sirloin for their tenderness and rich flavor. If you're short on time, pre-sliced beef from the butcher works great too.

Bell Peppers: Vibrant red, yellow, and green bell peppers not only add a pop of color but also lend a natural sweetness that complements the savory sauce. Slice them into strips for even cooking.

Onion: A sliced onion brings depth and a subtle sweetness to the dish, helping to balance the flavors.

Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds an aromatic touch. While garlic powder can work in a pinch, nothing beats the flavor of fresh cloves.

Sauce: A savory blend of soy sauce, beef broth, and brown sugar creates the perfect balance of salty and sweet. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of umami.

Cornstarch: A slurry of cornstarch and water thickens the sauce just before serving, giving it that irresistible glossy finish.

You'll also need a crock pot (or slow cooker) to bring everything together. It’s the unsung hero of this recipe, turning simple ingredients into a feast!

How To Make This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Creating this delectable dish is as simple as layering ingredients and letting your crock pot work its magic. Here’s how to make it happen:

Start by slicing your beef into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick. This ensures the meat cooks evenly and becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender during the long simmering process.

In the bottom of your crock pot, layer the sliced onion and bell peppers. These vegetables will act as a bed for the beef and soak up all the incredible flavors of the sauce.

Prepare the sauce by whisking together soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, garlic, and a touch of Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables, ensuring everything is evenly coated.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender while the peppers soften and absorb the savory sauce.

About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with a bit of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the crock pot to thicken the sauce. Let it cook for an additional half-hour to reach the perfect consistency.

Serve your pepper steak over fluffy white rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or even quinoa for a healthier twist. It’s a dish that tastes as good as it looks!

Storage Options

Leftovers of this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot are a blessing in disguise. Here’s how to store and reheat them to enjoy every bite:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to include some of the sauce to keep the beef moist and flavorful.
• Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm leftovers in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

These tips will ensure your pepper steak stays just as delicious as the day you made it!

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to make it your own:

• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the beef for hearty mushrooms like portobello or cremini and use vegetable broth in the sauce.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute tamari or coconut aminos for soy sauce and ensure your cornstarch is certified gluten-free.
• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to keep things keto-friendly.
• Different Proteins: This recipe works well with chicken thighs, pork tenderloin, or even shrimp for a seafood twist.

Feel free to experiment and find your favorite version of this classic dish. With so many ways to customize, you’ll never get bored of Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot!

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