The beauty of Crockpot Pepper Steak is in its simplicity. Juicy strips of beef are slow cooked until they are melt in your mouth tender, while vibrant bell peppers and onions soak up the rich, umami packed sauce. The combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire, honey, and ginger creates an irresistible depth of flavor that makes every bite unforgettable.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether served over fluffy rice, tender noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes, this slow cooked favorite will warm your soul and keep you coming back for more. Plus, it’s freezer friendly, making meal prep easier than ever.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef sirloin strips or sirloin steak, sliced
- 3 large colorful bell peppers, sliced thick
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¾ cup beef broth
- 3 beef bouillon cubes
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or flour
Directions:
- In a mixing glass, combine hot beef broth, bouillon cubes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, ground ginger, black pepper, salt, and cornstarch. Stir well to dissolve the bouillon cubes.
- Place the beef strips in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over them.
- Add the bell peppers, onions, and garlic on top of the beef.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours. Stir once halfway through if possible.
- Once done, stir well and transfer to a serving dish.
- Serve over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Kcal: 267 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Crockpot Pepper Steak: A Flavorful and Effortless Comfort Meal
Crockpot Pepper Steak is a delicious, slow cooked dish that brings together tender beef strips, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce. This dish, inspired by classic Chinese American cuisine, is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even a comforting weekend dinner, this crockpot version of pepper steak is a true lifesaver.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pepper Steak
- Effortless Cooking – This is a “dump and go” recipe, meaning you can prepare it in minutes and let the slow cooker handle the rest. No need to stand over the stove just set it and forget it.
- Incredibly Tender Beef – Slow cooking makes the beef strips melt in your mouth tender, infusing them with deep, rich flavors.
- Packed with Flavor – A perfect balance of umami rich soy sauce, sweet honey, aromatic garlic, and warming ginger creates a mouthwatering sauce that coats every bite.
- Versatile Pairing Options – Serve it over rice, noodles, mashed potatoes, or even in lettuce wraps for a low carb option.
- Great for Meal Prep – This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for preparing in advance and enjoying throughout the week.
The Inspiration Behind Crockpot Pepper Steak
Pepper steak has long been a favorite in Chinese American restaurants, where it’s typically stir fried with a quick, high heat method. The slow cooker version takes a different approach, allowing the flavors to deepen over several hours while ensuring the beef becomes tender and infused with the sauce. This dish is particularly ideal for those who love classic takeout flavors but prefer homemade meals with healthier, customizable ingredients.
By using a crockpot, you eliminate the need for constant monitoring, and the beef turns out much softer than the traditional stir fry version. The slow cooking process helps break down the fibers of the meat, creating a luxurious, tender texture. Plus, the extended cooking time allows the bell peppers and onions to absorb the umami rich sauce, making them incredibly flavorful.
What Makes This Dish So Delicious?
The magic of Crockpot Pepper Steak lies in its savory, slightly sweet, and aromatic sauce. The combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger creates an addictive umami flavor that keeps you coming back for more. Unlike some stir fried versions where the sauce can sometimes be thin, the slow cooker method ensures that the sauce thickens beautifully, coating every piece of beef and pepper with a rich glaze.
Additionally, the colorful bell peppers add a natural sweetness that balances the savory sauce, while the onions provide a subtle depth of flavor. These ingredients work together harmoniously, creating a well rounded dish that is both comforting and satisfying.
Best Ways to Serve Crockpot Pepper Steak
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Here are some great ways to serve Crockpot Pepper Steak:
- Over White or Brown Rice – The most traditional pairing, allowing the rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- With Egg Noodles or Lo Mein – A great way to turn this into a noodle dish, similar to beef lo mein.
- Mashed Potatoes – For a fusion twist, serve it over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal.
- Cauliflower Rice or Zucchini Noodles – A low carb alternative that pairs well with the sauce and beef.
- Lettuce Wraps – For a lighter option, serve the beef and peppers in large lettuce leaves as a wrap.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Pepper Steak
- Use the Right Cut of Beef – Sirloin steak is the best choice for this dish because it becomes incredibly tender when slow cooked. You can also use flank steak or top round steak if you prefer.
- Don’t Skip the Cornstarch – The cornstarch (or flour) helps thicken the sauce, giving it that glossy, restaurant style texture. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can omit it.
- Add the Peppers at the Right Time – If you love soft, melt in your mouth peppers, add them at the beginning of cooking. For a crunchier texture, add them during the last hour.
- Customize the Sauce – If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños. For a deeper umami flavor, add a splash of oyster sauce.
- Double the Recipe for Meal Prep – This dish freezes exceptionally well, so consider making a double batch and storing portions for future meals.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Crockpot Pepper Steak is an excellent make ahead meal. Here’s how to store and reheat it:
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze in individual portions in freezer safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Sirloin is the best choice for tenderness, but you can also use flank steak, top round, or even stew meat. Just keep in mind that some cuts may take longer to break down and become tender.
2. Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, a drizzle of sriracha, or chopped jalapeños for a spicier kick.
3. What can I use instead of cornstarch?
You can substitute cornstarch with arrowroot powder or flour for a similar thickening effect. If you prefer a thinner sauce, simply omit it.
4. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can make this dish in a large skillet. Brown the beef, add the sauce and vegetables, and let everything simmer for about 20-30 minutes until the meat is tender.
5. Is Crockpot Pepper Steak gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten free, simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten free.
Conclusion:
Crockpot Pepper Steak is the perfect dish for anyone looking for a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Its slow cooked, melt in your mouth beef, combined with a rich and savory sauce, makes it a standout comfort food. The versatility of this dish allows it to be paired with various sides, from rice to noodles to mashed potatoes, making it adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a home cook seeking to recreate your favorite takeout flavors, or someone who loves tender, flavorful beef dishes, Crockpot Pepper Steak is a must try recipe. Give it a go, and enjoy a stress free, delicious meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!