If you’re looking for a delectable, hassle-free meal that hits all the right notes, then look no further than this Pepper Steak Slow Cooker recipe. What makes this dish particularly appealing is its hearty flavor, stemming from the perfect combination of tender beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce that elevates every bite. The slow cooking method breaks down the meat beautifully, allowing it to absorb rich flavors, while the bell peppers maintain their slight crunch, adding a delightful texture. Ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering, this dish promises satisfaction without spending hours in the kitchen.
Not only is this Pepper Steak Slow Cooker dish bursting with taste, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can set your slow cooker and let it do the work for you. This means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time stressing about meal prep. Plus, the fact that it’s gluten-free makes it accessible for those with dietary restrictions, allowing everyone to join in on the feast. Whether served over white rice, brown rice, or noodles, the flavorful sauce seeps into everything it’s paired with, making every bite even better than the last.
Why You’ll Love This Pepper Steak Slow Cooker
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this scrumptious dish:
- Effortless Preparation: Simply sear the meat, toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
- Flavorful & Savory: The combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices infuses the dish with a rich, savory flavor.
- Flexible Ingredients: You can customize the recipe based on your favorite veggies or spice levels.
- Perfect for Meal Prepping: Make it ahead of time and store leftovers for tasty lunches throughout the week.
- Comfort Food: Enjoy a wholesome, satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized. For this recipe, you’ll need a large skillet for searing the steak and a slow cooker (Crock Pot) to combine all the flavors effectively. A whisk is handy for mixing the cornstarch and water, ensuring a smooth sauce without lumps.
Having a cutting board and a good chef’s knife will make slicing the vegetables and meat easier and faster. Keep measuring cups and spoons nearby, as accuracy is key to achieving the best flavor profile. Finally, don’t forget to gather bowls for prepping ingredients before they head into the slow cooker. By setting everything up beforehand, you’ll streamline the cooking process and ensure success.
Ingredients
To create this savory Pepper Steak dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 680 grams flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 60 milliliters soy sauce
- 60 milliliters beef broth
- 30 milliliters Worcestershire sauce
- 8 grams cornstarch
- 15 milliliters water
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 30 milliliters olive oil
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Steak
Begin your dish by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the thinly sliced steak. Sear the steak pieces for about 2 to 3 minutes until they develop a beautiful brown crust, which enhances the flavor. Avoid cooking them fully at this stage; you want them to brown nicely but remain undercooked, as they will continue to cook in the slow cooker later.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
After searing the steak, transfer it to your slow cooker. This is where the magic happens! Add in the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic for an aromatic blend. Then, pour in the soy sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle the black pepper and optional crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick. Gently stir everything together to ensure the steak and veggies are well-coated in the savory sauces.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Once everything is in the slow cooker, cover it with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, depending on your schedule. This long, slow cooking will tenderize the steak and meld the flavors beautifully. During this time, the veggies will cook down and release their flavors, enriching the dish. It’s almost time to enjoy your meal!
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, whisk together cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, and cook uncovered for about half an hour. This step thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency, creating a luxurious coating for the tender steak and veggies.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is up and the sauce has thickened, serve your pepper steak hot over steaming rice or noodles. The fragrant aroma wafting through your kitchen will already have everyone gathering around the table in anticipation!
Variations
If you’re feeling creative, here are a few variations to try with this Pepper Steak recipe:
- Protein: Swap the flank steak for chicken breast or tofu for a different protein twist.
- Vegetables: Add mushrooms, snap peas, or broccoli for additional texture and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with a splash of sriracha or a tablespoon of hoisin sauce for an Asian-inspired touch.
Cooking Notes
Keep these notes in mind while making your pepper steak:
- Make sure to slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- If you prefer, you can marinate the steak overnight for an extra flavor boost.
Serving Suggestions
For serving, consider these pairings:
- Serve over steaming white or brown rice for classic comfort.
- Complement it with steamed vegetables to round out a wholesome meal.
Tips
Here are some tips to elevate your cooking experience:
- Always taste your dish once it’s cooked and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Keep your slow cooker covered during cooking for best results; lifting the lid releases heat and prolongs the cook time.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
- Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 25 grams
- Sodium: 800 milligrams
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While flank steak or sirloin works best, you can substitute other cuts like ribeye or chuck roast. Just remember that tougher cuts may require longer cooking times.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Definitely! You can use firm tofu or tempeh instead of beef and add more veggies like zucchini or carrots for texture.
What can I serve with pepper steak?
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even fried rice. Don’t forget a side of veggies to complete the meal!
How long does pepper steak last in the fridge?
If stored properly in an airtight container, leftover pepper steak can last for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Feel free to reheat it on the stovetop or microwave!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Pepper Steak Slow Cooker recipe is a perfect addition to your weekly meal plan, offering both convenience and scrumptious flavor that satisfies worn-out appetites. The tenderness of the steak, the vibrant bursts of bell peppers, and the savory sauce make for a comforting dish that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to try different variations to find your favorite take on this classic meal, and remember that sharing your culinary creations enriches the cooking experience. We would love to hear your thoughts or variations after trying this recipe, so please leave a comment and share your photos!
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Delicious Pepper Steak Slow Cooker Recipe
- Total Time: Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Pepper Steak Slow Cooker recipe is a hassle-free meal that hits all the right notes, featuring tender beef and vibrant bell peppers in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 680 grams flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 60 milliliters soy sauce
- 60 milliliters beef broth
- 30 milliliters Worcestershire sauce
- 8 grams cornstarch
- 15 milliliters water
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 30 milliliters olive oil
Instructions
- Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak pieces for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the steak to the slow cooker and add bell peppers, onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes.
- Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.
- Thicken the Sauce: Whisk cornstarch and water until smooth, then stir into the slow cooker and cook uncovered for about 30 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
Slice the steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. Marinate overnight for extra flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours (low) or 3 to 4 hours (high)
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 25 g