If you want a **simple, flavorful, and hands-off dinner**, this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is perfect. Tender strips of beef slow-cooked with bell peppers, onions, and a savory sauce create a comforting meal that’s ready when you are.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy one-pot meal
- Rich, savory flavor with tender beef
- Perfect for weeknight dinners
- Minimal prep, slow-cooked perfection
- Pairs perfectly with rice or noodles
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced thinly
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Optional Add-Ins
- Shiitake mushrooms
- Carrots or snap peas
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Green onions for garnish
How to Make Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Step 1: Prep the Beef
Slice beef into thin strips and season lightly with black pepper. Optional: sear beef in a skillet with vegetable oil for 2–3 minutes for extra flavor.
Step 2: Add Ingredients to Crock Pot
Place sliced bell peppers, onions, garlic, and beef into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Mix Sauce
In a small bowl, combine beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. Pour over beef and vegetables.
Step 4: Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until beef is tender.
Step 5: Thicken Sauce
Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir into crock pot 30 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips for Best Results
- Sear beef before slow cooking for richer flavor
- Do not overcook vegetables—add them in the last 2 hours for crunch
- Adjust seasoning before serving
- Serve immediately after thickening sauce
Variations
Spicy Pepper Steak
Add crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
Vegetable-Packed Version
Add mushrooms, carrots, and snap peas for extra nutrition.
Teriyaki Pepper Steak
Add 2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce for a sweet-savory twist.
What to Serve With
- Steamed white or brown rice
- Lo mein noodles
- Cauliflower rice for low-carb option
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen beef?
Yes, but thaw first for even cooking.
Can I make this spicy?
Yes, add crushed red pepper or hot sauce.
Can I skip searing beef?
Yes, but searing enhances flavor.
Conclusion
This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a simple, flavorful, and comforting slow-cooked meal. Perfect for busy days, weeknight dinners, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite.