Slow Cooker Pepper Steak: A Flavor-Packed Comfort Meal

Get ready to fall in love with this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak, a dish so delicious you’ll want to keep it in your recipe rotation forever! Tender beef sirloin strips, vibrant green bell peppers, and a savory-sweet sauce come together in the crock pot for a meal that’s as easy as it is mouthwatering. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a hearty, flavorful dinner without the fuss—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. With its rich, umami-packed sauce and colorful veggies, this pepper steak is a #yummyfood masterpiece that’s sure to impress your family or guests. Let’s dive into this #crockpotrecipes gem that you won’t want to lose! #dinneridea #peppersteak #slowcookermeals #tastyfood
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it meal, delivering restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender as it simmers in a savory blend of soy sauce, stewed tomatoes, and a touch of sugar for balance. The green bell peppers add a fresh, slightly sweet crunch, while the garlic powder and bouillon infuse every bite with depth. Whether you’re a slow cooker pro or new to crock pot cooking, this recipe is foolproof and versatile—perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a cozy weekend feast. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and customizable to suit your taste. #trythisathome
Ingredients (Serves 6)
- 2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 2-inch strips: Sirloin is lean yet tender, but you can substitute with flank steak or round steak for similar results.
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder: Adjust to taste for a bold, savory kick.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: For searing the beef; canola or avocado oil works too.
- 1 beef bouillon cube: Adds rich, beefy flavor to the sauce.
- ¼ cup hot water: To dissolve the bouillon and cornstarch.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the sauce for a glossy, clingy texture.
- ½ cup chopped onion: Yellow or white onions add a subtle sweetness.
- 2 large green bell peppers, roughly chopped: Swap one for a red or yellow bell pepper for extra color and flavor.
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can stewed tomatoes, with liquid: Provides a tangy, juicy base for the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer less salt.
- 1 teaspoon white sugar: Balances the savory and tangy flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, especially if using regular soy sauce.
- Optional: Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped, for garnish; red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet (for searing beef)
- 6-quart slow cooker (or larger)
- Small bowl (for mixing bouillon and cornstarch)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Tongs or slotted spoon (for transferring beef)
- Serving platter or bowls
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef: Pat the 2 pounds of beef sirloin dry with paper towels and cut into 2-inch strips if not already done. Sprinkle evenly with ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, ensuring each piece is lightly coated. This adds a foundational layer of flavor.
- Sear the Beef: Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef strips in a single layer (work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding). Sear for about 5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly caramelized. Transfer the seared beef to the slow cooker using tongs, leaving any drippings in the skillet for extra flavor.
- Make the Sauce Base: In a small bowl, dissolve 1 beef bouillon cube in ¼ cup hot water, stirring until fully dissolved. Add 1 tablespoon cornstarch to the mixture and whisk until smooth to prevent lumps. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker over the beef.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: To the slow cooker, add ½ cup chopped onion, 2 large green bell peppers (roughly chopped), 1 can (14.5 ounces) stewed tomatoes with their liquid, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 teaspoon white sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt. Stir gently to combine, ensuring the beef and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce.
- Cook in the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker and cook on High for 3–4 hours or Low for 6–8 hours. The beef should be fork-tender, and the peppers should be softened but still hold their shape. Stir halfway through cooking if possible to ensure even flavor distribution.
- Check and Serve: Once cooked, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if needed. Serve the pepper steak hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color. Spoon the savory sauce generously over each portion for maximum flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Over Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice, jasmine rice, or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With Noodles: Try it with egg noodles or lo mein for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes complements the rich sauce.
- Veggie Sides: Pair with steamed broccoli, stir-fried snap peas, or a crisp cucumber salad for a balanced meal.
- As a Sandwich: Pile leftovers into a hoagie roll with melted provolone for a Philly-style sandwich.
Tips for Success
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip searing the beef—it locks in juices and adds a caramelized depth to the dish.
- Cut Peppers Uniformly: Chop bell peppers into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and a pleasant texture.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin after cooking, mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the slow cooker. Cook on High for 10–15 minutes to thicken.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and tweak with more soy sauce, sugar, or a dash of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Make It Ahead: Prep the beef and vegetables the night before and store in the fridge for quick assembly in the morning.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Pepper Steak: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a sliced jalapeño for a fiery kick.
- Colorful Veggies: Swap one green bell pepper for a red, yellow, or orange bell pepper for a vibrant presentation.
- Mushroom Addition: Include 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button) for extra umami flavor.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and a reduced-sodium bouillon cube to cut back on salt.
- Gluten-Free: Ensure the soy sauce and bouillon are gluten-free, or use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a microwave-safe dish for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway, or warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. Ensure the beef is heated through.
- Freezing: Freeze cooled pepper steak in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.
Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a #tastyfood dream, combining tender beef, crisp peppers, and a savory-sweet sauce that’s pure comfort in every bite. The crock pot does all the heavy lifting, making it a lifesaver for busy schedules. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. It’s a #dinneridea that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat, and the vibrant colors make it a feast for the eyes too. Don’t lose this one—it’s a #slowcookermeals winner! #peppersteak #crockpotrecipes
A Slow Cooker Classic
Pepper steak is a timeless dish with roots in Asian-inspired cuisine, but this slow cooker version brings it into the realm of effortless home cooking. The combination of soy sauce, tomatoes, and beef creates a sauce that’s both comforting and bold, while the slow cooking process ensures every bite is tender and flavorful. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and brings everyone to the table with smiles. Perfect for #yummyfood lovers who want a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.