Looking for a hearty, no-fuss dinner that’s packed with flavor? This slow cooker pepper steak recipe is a total game-changer. With tender beef, sweet bell peppers, and a savory, slightly sweet sauce, it’s the perfect “set it and forget it” meal. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping for the week, this dish delivers comfort and bold flavor with minimal effort. Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let the magic happen. Get ready for a melt-in-your-mouth meal you’ll want to make again and again!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
🧾 Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Making delicious slow cooker pepper steak starts with a few simple ingredients you probably already have. These flavors come together beautifully in the slow cooker to create a tender, savory dish that’s full of comfort and color.
🥩 Beef
- 1.5 to 2 pounds of beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced Choose a lean cut for best results. Slice against the grain for extra tenderness.
🌶️ Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper (optional, for extra color)
- 1 medium onion, sliced thin
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
🥣 Sauce
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger (optional for an Asian twist)
🛠️ Optional Add-ins
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
- Sesame oil (adds depth of flavor)
- Sliced mushrooms or snap peas for extra veggies
Tip: Don’t skip the cornstarch! It thickens the sauce into that rich, silky texture you love in restaurant-style pepper steak.
Everything goes into the slow cooker, so prep is quick and cleanup is a breeze. Up next: how to put it all together for the perfect cook.
👩🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
This slow cooker pepper steak recipe couldn’t be easier. With just a few quick steps, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful dinner ready to go—all with minimal hands-on time.
🥩 1. Slice the beef
Start by slicing your beef thinly against the grain. This helps keep the meat tender after hours of slow cooking. Aim for thin, bite-sized strips.
🧂 2. Mix the sauce
In a bowl, whisk together:
- Soy sauce
- Beef broth
- Brown sugar
- Tomato paste
- Garlic
- Ground ginger (optional)
This savory-sweet sauce gives the dish its signature flavor. Want it spicy? Add crushed red pepper flakes now.
🫑 3. Add ingredients to the slow cooker
Layer the sliced beef into the bottom of your slow cooker. Top it with sliced bell peppers and onions, then pour the sauce evenly over everything.
🔥 4. Cook on low or high
Cover and cook:
- LOW for 5–6 hours, or
- HIGH for 2.5–3 hours
Longer, slower cooking makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender. Don’t overcook, or it may dry out.
🥣 5. Thicken the sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker and let the sauce thicken while it finishes cooking.
🍽️ 6. Serve and enjoy
Serve hot over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or even noodles. Top with green onions or sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch.
There you have it—an easy, crockpot pepper steak dinner that’s bold, beefy, and better than takeout.
🛠️ Tools You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
You don’t need fancy gadgets to make slow cooker pepper steak—just a few kitchen basics:
- Slow Cooker (4–6 quart): The heart of this recipe. A programmable model works best for busy days.
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For slicing beef and veggies with ease.
- Mixing Bowl & Whisk: To blend the savory sauce ingredients smoothly.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Precision matters, especially for the perfect sauce balance.
- Tongs or Spoon: For stirring and serving without mess.
- Storage Containers: For leftovers or meal prep portions.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Can I use frozen beef in the slow cooker?
Yes, but it’s not recommended. For safety and better texture, thaw the beef completely before cooking. Using frozen meat can cause uneven cooking and affect the tenderness of your pepper steak.
What’s the best cut of beef for slow cooker pepper steak?
Lean cuts like sirloin, flank steak, or top round work best. They become tender when slow-cooked and soak up all the delicious sauce without getting too fatty.
When should I add the bell peppers?
For best results, add bell peppers during the last 1–2 hours of cooking. If added too early, they’ll become overly soft and lose their color and bite.
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