This Crockpot Pepper Steak is an easy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or any time you want a hands-off meal. Tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce come together in your crockpot, creating a delicious meal that can be served over rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes. The slow cooking process ensures that the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the bell peppers retain their slight crunch for the perfect texture contrast.
The Origins of Pepper Steak
Pepper steak is believed to have originated from a combination of Asian and Western cooking influences. It draws inspiration from Chinese stir-fry dishes, particularly those featuring beef and vegetables. However, unlike the quick stir-frying process, this crockpot version allows the ingredients to slowly cook and infuse with flavors over several hours, making it a comforting and easy-to-make meal for busy households.
Key Ingredients and Why They Matter
Beef Strips
For this recipe, beef strips (usually from sirloin, flank, or round steak) are the best choice because they become tender after slow cooking.
- Pro Tip: To ensure even cooking, slice the beef against the grain into uniform strips.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers not only add vibrant color to this dish but also provide a sweet, mild flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory sauce.
- Substitution Tip: You can use a combination of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a more colorful dish, or stick to your favorite pepper variety.
Soy Sauce
Soy sauce is a key ingredient for adding depth and savory richness to the sauce. It’s essential for creating that classic umami flavor.
- Pro Tip: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake, or substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.
How to Make Crockpot Pepper Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Vegetables
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs beef strips (sirloin, flank, or round steak)
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes.
- Set the sauce mixture aside.
Step 3: Cook the Pepper Steak
- Place the beef strips, sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic in the crockpot.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the ingredients, making sure everything is well-coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, about 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the crockpot and continue cooking on high for an additional 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Crockpot Pepper Steak over a bed of steamed rice, egg noodles, or even mashed potatoes. For added texture and flavor, garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Pro Tip: For a healthier option, you can serve the pepper steak over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Variations and Add-Ins
Spicy Pepper Steak
For a spicier version, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce to the sauce mixture before cooking.
Garlic Pepper Steak
If you’re a garlic lover, increase the amount of minced garlic to 5-6 cloves to give the dish a stronger, aromatic flavor.
Low-Carb Pepper Steak
To make this dish low-carb, serve it over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or shredded cabbage instead of rice or pasta.
Dietary Adaptations
This recipe can be adapted to fit various dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
- Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and reduced-sodium beef broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Crockpot Pepper Steak Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and refrigerate them. In the morning, simply transfer everything to the crockpot and let it cook throughout the day.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Pepper steak freezes well. Store any leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What kind of beef is best for crockpot pepper steak?
Cuts like sirloin, flank steak, or round steak work best because they become tender with slow cooking.
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