If you’re hunting for a recipe that’s both satisfying and effortless to prepare, then look no further than this Crockpot Pepper Steak. This dish brings together tender strips of beef delightfully mingled with vibrant bell peppers, all slowly cooked to perfection for a meal that’s both savory and comforting.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak, cut into strips
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Equipments
- Crockpot
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Stirring spoon
How to Make Crockpot Pepper Steak – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by washing and slicing your bell peppers into thin strips. Chop the onion into similar-sized slices, and mince the garlic cloves. Make sure your flank steak is cut into even strips for consistent cooking. Gather all other ingredients within arm’s reach to streamline your cooking process.
Step 2: Sauté the Beef
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips and sauté until they’re just browned on the outside. You don’t want to cook them through; just give them a quick sear to lock in the flavors. Remove the beef and set it aside.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot
In your crockpot, combine the sliced peppers, onion, garlic, soy sauce, beef broth, and tomato paste. Stir in the browned steak strips. Season the mix with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavors.
Step 4: Cook and Simmer
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. This slow cooking method allows the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld together wonderfully.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with some water to make a slurry. Stir this into the crockpot to thicken the sauce, letting it cook uncovered until you reach the desired sauce consistency.
How to Serve Crockpot Pepper Steak
Serve this delectable Crockpot Pepper Steak over steamed rice or cauliflower rice, perfect for soaking up all the flavorful juices. For a well-rounded meal, pair it with a side of fresh salad or steamed vegetables.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the steak strips in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger overnight before cooking. This will add an extra depth of taste. If you like a little heat, add some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Boost Protein with This High-Protein Version
Elevate the protein content of your Pepper Steak by incorporating tofu or edamame. Adding these to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking not only increases nutritional value but also complements the dish’s flavors beautifully.
Low Carb Loving: Leaner Crockpot Pepper Steak
For those aiming for a low-carb lifestyle, swap the beef with chicken breast or thighs, and increase the veggie content with zucchini or mushrooms. This maintains the dish’s essence while adhering to low-carb needs.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months for longer preservation. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
FAQs
- Can I use different cuts of beef? – Yes, you can use sirloin or chuck roast, as long as they are thinly sliced.
- Is it possible to prepare ahead of time? – Absolutely, prep the ingredients and combine them in the crockpot a day beforehand, then refrigerate.
- Can I add more vegetables? – Definitely, feel free to include your favorite veggies such as broccoli or carrots for additional nutrition.
- Can I make it spicier? – Add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the mix for an extra spicy kick.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? – Ensure you use a gluten-free soy sauce and check all other ingredients to confirm they are gluten-free.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor: Final Thoughts
Congratulations on creating a delightful Crockpot Pepper Steak that’s sure to impress. This dish is not just easy and satisfying, but it also provides a burst of flavor in every bite. Don’t keep this delicious secret to yourself—share this recipe with friends and family. Feel free to leave your own tips and variations in the comments below!
Crockpot Pepper Steak
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- flank steak
- bell peppers
- onion
- garlic
- soy sauce
- beef broth
- tomato paste
- cornstarch
- Salt and pepper
- Italian seasoning
- olive oil
Instructions
Steps
- Prepare all your ingredients by washing and slicing the vegetables and beef.
- Sauté the beef strips in olive oil until just browned.
- Add ingredients into the crockpot and stir well.
- Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
- Thicken sauce with cornstarch slurry before serving.