If you’re craving a hearty, savory dish that practically cooks itself, Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is the perfect solution. This slow-cooked classic delivers melt-in-your-mouth beef, tender bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce — all without the hassle of constant stovetop supervision.
It’s a comforting family meal that works beautifully over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Serves 6–8
- 2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 2 large red bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 5–6 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
- Total time: About 6 hours 20 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear sliced beef for 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned (do not fully cook).
- Transfer beef to the crock pot.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Sauce
- Add sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the crock pot.
- In a small bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until beef is tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
- Mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the crock pot 30 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot over steamed rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes.
- Garnish with extra black pepper or green onions if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Perfect with fluffy white rice for a classic pairing.
- Try over garlic mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
- Serve with a crisp side salad or steamed broccoli for balance.
- Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired touch.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1 of 6) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 29 grams |
| Total Fat | 15 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 5 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 18 grams |
| Sugars | 9 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Sodium | 740 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Beef provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
- Bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Low-sodium soy sauce helps reduce sodium content while keeping the flavor bold.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice beef thinly across the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Use a mix of red, green, and yellow peppers for extra color and sweetness.
- For a richer flavor, replace half of the beef broth with red wine.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase crushed red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
Variations to Try
- Sweet Pepper Steak – Add pineapple chunks during the last hour of cooking.
- Mushroom Pepper Steak – Add sliced mushrooms for earthy depth.
- Gluten-Free Version – Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a fuss-free, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy days. The slow cooking process allows the beef to soak up all the savory-sweet flavors while keeping the vegetables tender and vibrant.
With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to for easy family dinners and comforting home-cooked meals.