A Slow Cooker Classic: Crockpot Pepper Steak

Effortless Cooking

With just a few minutes of prep, your slow cooker does all the hard work. Place your ingredients inside then set the machine for instant cooking automation.

Incredibly Tender Beef

Slow cooking allows the steak to become fall-apart tender, soaking up the delicious flavors of the sauce while staying juicy and rich.

Bold & Savory Flavor of Crockpot Pepper Steak

This dish combines soy sauce, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and bell peppers to create a rich, umami-packed sauce that perfectly coats every bite.

Meal Prep & Freezer-Friendly

Preparing a large portion at once enables you to have convenient leftovers that can be used for daily lunches. It also freezes well, so you can always have a comforting meal ready when you need it.

Customizable to Your Taste

Want it spicy? Add red pepper flakes. Prefer chicken instead of beef? Swap it out! This recipe is versatile and adaptable to your preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend meal, or a meal-prep lunch, Crockpot Pepper Steak is always a hit. Customers can enjoy this dish by serving it with rice or noodles or by choosing cauliflower rice as a low-carb choice.

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs sirloin steak or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced (use red and green for a colorful dish)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained (optional, for extra depth)

Flavorful Sauce

• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Spice the tomato mixture with an optional half teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes when you want to add a tongue-burning kick.
• 1 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken the sauce)

Additional Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for optional browning of the beef)

For Serving Crockpot Pepper Steak

• Cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)
• Fresh chopped parsley or sesame seeds, for garnish

Prepare the Ingredients

• Slice your steak into thin strips against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Chop the bell peppers, onion, and mince the garlic.

Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)

• One tablespoon of olive oil needs heating up in a skillet at medium-high temperature.
• Add the sliced beef and brown for 2-3 minutes per side. (This enhances flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.)
• Transfer the beef to your slow cooker.

Mix the Sauce

• In a bowl, whisk together:
  Beef broth
  Soy sauce
  Worcestershire sauce
  Brown sugar
  Black pepper & red pepper flakes (if using)
• Add the prepared mixture to the pieces of beef which rest inside the crockpot.

Add Vegetables to Crockpot Pepper Steak

• Toss in the sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic.
• If using diced tomatoes, add them now.
• Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

Set It & Forget It

• Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
• The beef will become tender and absorb all the rich flavors of the sauce.

Thicken the Sauce

• 30 minutes before serving, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water.
• Stir it into the crockpot to create a thicker, velvety sauce.

Serve & Enjoy!

• Spoon the pepper steak over steamed rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
• Garnish with chopped parsley or sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor.

Protein Swaps

• Chicken: Swap the beef for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cook for the same time until the chicken is tender and shreds easily.
• Pork: Thinly sliced pork tenderloin or boneless pork chops make a delicious alternative.
• Tofu: For a vegetarian version, use extra-firm tofu. Add it in the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.

Sauce Adjustments

• Sweeter Flavor: Add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or honey for a hint of sweetness.
• Tangy Kick: Mix in 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar or balsamic vinegar to enhance the depth of flavor.
• Extra Savory Taste: Add 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce for a more complex, umami-rich sauce.
• Spicy Version: Love heat? Increase the red pepper flakes or stir in Sriracha or chili garlic sauce.

Extra Vegetables

Boost the nutrition and texture of your dish with additional veggies:

• Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for an umami-packed twist.
• Carrots: Thinly sliced or julienned carrots add a natural sweetness and crunch.
• Snow Peas or Green Beans: Toss these in during the last 30 minutes for a fresh, crisp texture.
• Zucchini: Add sliced zucchini in the last hour to prevent it from overcooking.

Serving Variations

• Rice Alternatives: Instead of white or brown rice, try serving it over quinoa, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Noodles: Pair this dish with egg noodles, ramen, or lo mein noodles for an Asian-inspired twist.
• Wraps or Sandwiches: Use leftovers to make pepper steak wraps or hoagie sandwiches with crusty bread!

Alternative Cooking Methods

• Instant Pot Method: Sauté the beef using the “Sauté” function, then pressure cook on high for 15 minutes with a 10-minute natural release. Thicken the sauce with cornstarch afterward.
• Stovetop Method: Simmer the beef and sauce in a large skillet over medium heat for about 25-30 minutes until tender. Add cornstarch at the end to thicken.

Choose the Right Cut of Beef

• Sirloin, flank steak, or round steak are the best choices for slow cooking. They become tender over time while soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Avoid tougher cuts like chuck roast unless you plan to cook it for a longer time.

Slice the Steak Properly

• Always slice the beef against the grain to ensure a tender texture.
• Cutting it into thin strips (about ¼-inch thick) helps it absorb flavors better.

Brown the Meat for Extra Flavor

• While it’s optional, searing the steak in a pan before adding it to the crockpot locks in juices and creates a richer, more complex flavor.
• Simply heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the steak for 2-3 minutes per side.

Don’t Overcook the Peppers

• If you like your bell peppers soft, add them at the beginning of cooking.
• If you prefer them with a slight crunch, add them during the last hour of slow cooking.

Thicken the Sauce Like a Pro

• For a thicker, restaurant-style sauce, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir it in 30 minutes before serving.
• Let it simmer in the crockpot uncovered to allow the sauce to thicken naturally.

Adjust the Heat Level

• Want it mild? Stick to the basic recipe.
• Love spice? Add extra red pepper flakes, Sriracha, or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick!

Best Ways to Serve Pepper Steak

• Serve it over steamed white or brown rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
• Two low-carb accompaniments for this dish include zucchini noodles and cauliflower rice.
• Use leftovers to make pepper steak sandwiches or wraps for a fun twist!

Storage & Reheating Tips

• The leftovers need to be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and will last for 4 days maximum.
• Any leftover bar can be frozen in a sealed plastic bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it from drying out.

Classic Starches for Crockpot Pepper Steak

Pairing Crockpot Pepper Steak with a starch helps soak up the delicious sauce and makes for a satisfying meal.

• Steamed White or Brown Rice – The go-to side for this dish, rice absorbs the rich, savory sauce beautifully.
• Garlic Butter Rice – Infused with garlic and butter, this adds a fragrant twist to the meal.
• Egg Noodles or Lo Mein Noodles – Give your dish an Asian-inspired feel with tender, slurpable noodles.
• Mashed Potatoes – A creamy, comforting base that complements the beef and peppers.

Healthy & Low-Carb Alternatives

For a lighter meal, swap traditional sides for these healthier options.

• Cauliflower Rice – A great low-carb alternative that still absorbs the sauce well.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – Adds a fresh, light texture to balance the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – A simple, healthy side that pairs well with the bold flavors.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Slightly crispy and caramelized, these bring a delightful crunch.

Bread & Rolls

Soak up the savory sauce with a warm, crusty bread option.

• Garlic Bread – Buttery, crispy, and perfect for dipping into the sauce.
• Dinner Rolls – Soft and fluffy, they help scoop up every last bite.
• French Baguette – Ideal for those who love a little crunch with their meal.

Fresh & Light Side Dishes

Balance out the rich, slow-cooked beef with a refreshing salad.

• Asian Cucumber Salad – A tangy, sesame-infused salad that cuts through the richness.
• Mixed Green Salad with Balsamic Dressing – Adds a fresh and slightly sweet contrast to the dish.
• Coleslaw – A crunchy, creamy side that provides a nice textural contrast.

Drink Pairings

Enhance your meal with the perfect beverage.

• Iced Green Tea: A refreshing, slightly earthy option to cleanse the palate.
• Ginger Ale or Sparkling Water: A crisp, fizzy drink that complements the rich flavors.