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Pepper Steak Crock Pot Recipe Easy Slow Cooker Dinner Idea

pepper steak crock pot - featured image

This easy pepper steak crock pot recipe transforms simple ingredients into a melt-in-your-mouth, flavorful dinner with minimal prep. Tender steak, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce make it a family favorite for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced into thin strips
  • 3 large bell peppers (assorted colors), sliced into strips
  • 1 large onion, sliced thin
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce (or Tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar (or honey)
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (for slurry)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper for heat
  • Optional: 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • Optional: 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Slice the steak into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. (Tip: Slightly freeze the meat for easier slicing.)
  2. Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips.
  3. Place steak strips evenly in the bottom of the slow cooker. Scatter onions and bell peppers (and mushrooms, if using) over the top.
  4. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper. Add sesame oil and crushed red pepper if desired.
  5. Pour the sauce mixture over the steak and veggies. Gently toss to coat everything.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. (Low is recommended for tender steak.)
  7. About 30 minutes before serving, whisk together cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Stir into the crock pot, cover, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add more pepper or soy sauce if desired.
  9. Serve hot over cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice. Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

For crisper bell peppers, add them during the last 1-2 hours of cooking. Slice steak thinly for best tenderness. To make gluten-free, use Tamari and check your broth and Worcestershire sauce. Leftovers keep well and flavors deepen overnight. You can add mushrooms, snap peas, or even pineapple for variations. For a low-carb version, use a sugar substitute and serve over cauliflower rice.

Nutrition

Keywords: pepper steak, crock pot, slow cooker, beef, easy dinner, family meal, gluten-free option, freezer meal, comfort food