Tender strips of beef slow-cooked in a savory soy-based sauce with colorful bell peppers and onions make this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot a delightful dish. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe offers ease and robust flavor. The combination of fresh vegetables and rich broth creates a comforting meal that pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Why Youβll Love This Recipe
- Hands-off cooking: Simply prepare your ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you.
- Bursting with flavor: The savory soy-based sauce infuses the beef and vegetables with irresistible taste.
- Versatile meal options: Serve over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a meal that fits any palate.
- Colorful presentation: The vibrant bell peppers add visual appeal to your dinner table.
- Perfect for leftovers: Enjoy delicious meals throughout the week with this generous recipe.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot, youβll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure your cooking experience is smooth and successful.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This handy appliance allows for low-and-slow cooking, resulting in tender beef thatβs full of flavor.
- Cutting board: A sturdy cutting surface is essential for safely slicing your beef and vegetables.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes slicing meat and chopping vegetables quick and easy.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients before pouring them into the slow cooker.
Ingredients
To prepare Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot, gather the following ingredients:
For the Beef
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
For the Vegetables
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, sliced
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Thickening
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
To Taste
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
How to Make Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Slice the beef into thin strips and season generously with salt and black pepper.
Step 2: Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned beef at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the bell peppers and onion on top of the beef.
Step 3: Make the Sauce Mixture
In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything in Slow Cooker
Pour the prepared sauce mixture evenly over the meat and vegetables in your slow cooker.
Step 5: Cook Your Dish
Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6β7 hours or HIGH for 3β4 hours until the beef is tender.
Step 6: Thicken Sauce Before Serving
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce as it continues to cook.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once thickened to your desired consistency, add sesame oil if youβre using it. Stir gently to combine.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Serve your delicious Pepper Steak hot over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for an unforgettable meal!
How to Serve Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Serving Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is an easy way to create a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. The tender beef and vibrant vegetables pair well with various accompaniments.
Over Rice
- Serve the pepper steak over steamed white or brown rice for a comforting base that absorbs all the delicious sauce.
With Noodles
- Try it with egg noodles or rice noodles for a hearty dish that adds extra texture to your meal.
On Mashed Potatoes
- Spoon the pepper steak mix over creamy mashed potatoes for a filling combination thatβs perfect for cooler evenings.
In Tacos
- Use soft tortillas to create flavorful tacos. Top with fresh cilantro and diced avocado for added freshness.
With Bread Rolls
- Serve alongside warm bread rolls to soak up the savory sauce. This option adds a cozy touch to your dinner table.
How to Perfect Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
To enhance your Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose the right cut of beef: Select sirloin or flank steak for tender results that hold up well during slow cooking.
- Cut vegetables evenly: Ensure bell peppers and onions are cut into similar sizes for even cooking and presentation.
- Season properly: Donβt skip seasoning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker; it enhances the overall flavor.
- Adjust spice levels: Add more or less red pepper flakes based on your heat preference for a personalized kick.
- Thicken sauce effectively: Mix cornstarch with cold water before adding it to the slow cooker to avoid clumping in your sauce.
- Let it rest: Allow your dish to sit for 10 minutes after cooking for improved flavor melding before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Complementing your Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot with side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Steamed Broccoli: Bright green florets add nutrition and color while balancing the savory flavors of the steak.
- Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery garlic bread pairs perfectly with pepper steak, perfect for dipping into the sauce.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the beef.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers a healthy alternative, bringing additional textures and flavors to your plate.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add depth and sweetness, complementing the savory notes of the pepper steak.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice seasoned lightly with salt and pepper alongside your dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Slow-cooking can be a breeze if you steer clear of common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for when making Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot.
- Bold Phrase: Using the Wrong Cut of Meat β Choosing a tough cut can lead to chewy results. Opt for sirloin or flank steak for tenderness.
- Bold Phrase: Overcrowding the Slow Cooker β Filling it too much can prevent even cooking. Keep a moderate amount for proper heat circulation.
- Bold Phrase: Skipping the Seasoning β Failing to season can result in bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and sauces before cooking.
- Bold Phrase: Not Thicken the Sauce β Serving a watery sauce is disappointing. Mix cornstarch with water during the last 30 minutes for thickness.
- Bold Phrase: Ignoring Cooking Times β Cooking too long or too short affects texture. Stick to recommended times for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
- Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F. Place in a covered dish and bake until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast or thighs for the beef. Adjust cooking time as needed.
How do I customize my Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or snap peas for extra nutrition and flavor.
What sides go well with Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot?
Serve it over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Steamed veggies also complement the dish nicely.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari as an alternative to regular soy sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is not just easy but also packed with flavor and comfort. With its tender beef and vibrant veggies, itβs perfect for any dinner. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste!

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
- Author: Adeline
- Total Time: 12 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Experience the delightful flavors of Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot, a comforting dish thatβs perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. This easy-to-prepare recipe features tender beef strips slowly immersed in a savory soy-based sauce alongside vibrant bell peppers and onions. The slow cooking method allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a rich meal that pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish that not only satisfies but also leaves you with delicious leftovers to savor throughout the week.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Slice the beef into thin strips and season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Place the seasoned beef at the bottom of your slow cooker and layer the bell peppers and onion on top.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, garlic, brown sugar, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the meat and vegetables in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6β7 hours or HIGH for 3β4 hours until the beef is tender.
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth; stir into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
- Serve hot over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6β7 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: For added texture and flavor, consider incorporating additional vegetables like carrots or snap peas. Adjust spice levels by adding more or fewer red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.