Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by slicing the beef, onion, and bell peppers. For the most tender steak, slice it against the grain into thin strips.
- Layer the Crock Pot:
- Place the sliced onions and half of the bell peppers at the bottom of the Crock Pot. This layering helps to distribute the flavors evenly as the steak cooks.
- Add the Steak and Sauce:
- Place the steak strips on top of the onions and peppers. Add the minced garlic, soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything gently to combine.
- Cook on Low:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low will yield the most tender results.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, mix the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the Crock Pot along with the remaining bell peppers. This step ensures the sauce thickens and the peppers retain a slight crunch.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the sauce has thickened and the peppers are tender-crisp, serve the pepper steak over a bed of rice. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness.
Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Pepper Steak
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Flank steak, sirloin, or even chuck roast can work well. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for the most tender results.
- Don’t Skip the Thickening Step: The cornstarch slurry is essential for creating a sauce that clings to the steak and peppers rather than being too thin.
- Customize the Heat: If you like your pepper steak with a bit of a kick, feel free to add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Flavor Variations
- Add Mushrooms: Stir in some sliced mushrooms for extra umami flavor. Add them at the same time as the bell peppers.
- Sweet and Spicy: For a sweet twist, add a tablespoon of honey or hoisin sauce to the mix. The combination of sweet and savory is a delightful change.
- Teriyaki Pepper Steak: Swap the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce and add a tablespoon of pineapple juice for a fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Rice or Noodles: Serve it over white rice, brown rice, or even noodles for a comforting meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Balance the richness of the dish with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or snow peas.
- Crusty Bread: Use crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce for an extra hearty meal.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The pepper steak can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the pepper steak on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
- Set-It-and-Forget-It: The Crock Pot does all the work, so you can go about your day and come back to a home-cooked meal.
- Tender and Flavorful: Slow-cooking the steak makes it incredibly tender and allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, with its simple, delicious flavors and colorful presentation.
Conclusion
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a fuss-free way to enjoy the comforting taste of a classic stir-fry with the convenience of slow cooking. It’s perfect for those nights when you want a hearty, flavorful meal without standing over the stove. With tender slices of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
Give it a try, and savor the deliciousness of this easy Crock Pot meal!
You can customize the recipe further to fit your preferences or add any additional details for a personal touch.
