Name: Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487261H18M27S
Total time: PT-487261H18M27S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for browning)

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a hearty, flavorful dish made with tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, and a savory sauce that’s slow-cooked to perfection. It’s the kind of easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal that fills my kitchen with amazing aromas and delivers a satisfying dinner at the end of a long day. Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something truly comforting and delicious. The slow cooker does all the work, making the beef incredibly tender and the flavors deeply developed. It’s also incredibly versatile—I can serve it over rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes depending on what I have on hand. And the best part? The prep is minimal, which makes it ideal for busy weekdays or laid-back weekends.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
Green bell peppers, sliced
Red bell peppers, sliced
Onion, sliced
Garlic, minced
Soy sauce
Beef broth
Brown sugar
Ground ginger
Cornstarch
Water
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil (for browning the beef, optional)

directions

I start by browning the beef strips in a bit of olive oil in a skillet—this step is optional, but it adds great flavor.
Then, I place the beef in the crock pot along with the sliced onions and bell peppers.
In a small bowl, I mix together the soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, garlic, and ground ginger. I pour this mixture over the beef and veggies in the crock pot.
I cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the beef is tender and flavorful.
About 30 minutes before serving, I mix cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the crock pot to thicken the sauce.
I let it cook uncovered for the remaining time, then serve it hot over rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 6 to 7 hours on low (or 3 to 4 hours on high) to cook in the crock pot.

Variations

I sometimes swap out the beef for chicken for a different spin.
For a bit of spice, I add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
I like using yellow or orange peppers for more color and a sweeter flavor.
To make it gluten-free, I use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
I’ve even added mushrooms or snow peas for extra texture and flavor.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For reheating, I microwave individual portions or warm it gently on the stove over medium heat. If the sauce thickens too much in the fridge, I just add a splash of water or broth while reheating.

FAQs

How do I make the beef extra tender?

I slice the beef thinly against the grain and let it cook slowly on low heat to keep it tender and juicy.

Can I skip browning the beef?

Yes, I can skip this step if I’m short on time. Browning adds flavor, but the dish still turns out delicious without it.

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

I prefer using sirloin or flank steak because they become very tender when slow-cooked and absorb the flavors well.

Can I freeze Pepper Steak?

Yes, I freeze cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. I thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve this with?

I love serving this over steamed rice, but it’s also great with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa.

Conclusion

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is one of those dependable, delicious meals I keep coming back to. It’s easy, adaptable, and loaded with savory flavor that satisfies every time. Whether I’m feeding my family or just want something warm and comforting, this recipe hits the spot with minimal effort.