One of my new favorite recipes is crockpot pepper steak! This is so easy, a true dump and go dinner. Today we’re headed to the pool so I’ve already got all ingredients prepped and ready to cook while we’re gone. It’s great served over rice or noodles or just as is for a lower carb option.
Crockpot Pepper Steak is a dump and go hands-off meal that is super flavorful, simple, and comforting. This Chinese inspired pepper steak recipe is a favorite when served over rice, noodles and more!
2 lbs beef sirloin strips or sirloin steak cut into slices
3 large colorful bell peppers sliced thick
1 large onion sliced
3 garlic cloves
3/4 cup beef broth
3 beef bouillon cubes
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp honey
Make the sauce. Combine hot beef broth, bouillon cubes, soy sauce, worchestire sauce, honey, ground ginger, black pepper, salt and cornstarch in a mixing glass. Stir well, crushing the bouillon cubes.
Place beef strips into the slow cooker. Pour sauce on top. Add peppers, onions and garlic on top of the beef.
When finished, stir well and transfer to a serving dish. Serve over rice or noodles or as a side with mashed or baked potatoes.
Here are some tips to help you make the best crockpot pepper steak:
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef:
- Select a tender cut of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak. These cuts work well for slow cooking and will become tender and flavorful.
- Brown the Beef:
- Before placing the beef in the crockpot, sear it in a hot skillet to brown the edges. This enhances the flavor and texture of the meat.
- Use Fresh Ingredients:
- Whenever possible, use fresh bell peppers and onions for the best flavor and texture. Fresh vegetables will retain their crispness during the slow cooking process.
- Slice Ingredients Uniformly:
- Ensure that you slice the bell peppers and onions uniformly to promote even cooking. This also helps maintain a pleasing texture in the final dish.
- Add Garlic and Ginger for Flavor:
- Include minced garlic and ginger in the sauce for added depth of flavor. Freshly minced garlic and ginger provide a more intense taste compared to pre-packaged alternatives.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste:
- Taste the sauce before adding it to the crockpot and adjust the seasonings accordingly. You might want to add a bit more soy sauce, garlic, or pepper to suit your preferences.
- Low and Slow Cooking:
- For the best results, cook the pepper steak on the low setting of your crockpot. This allows the flavors to meld, and the meat becomes more tender over an extended period.
- Don’t Overcook the Vegetables:
- If you prefer your vegetables to be slightly crisp, add them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
- Thicken the Sauce if Desired:
- If you want a thicker sauce, you can mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir it into the crockpot during the last hour of cooking.
- Garnish Before Serving:
- Garnish the finished dish with fresh chopped green onions or parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
- Serve with the Right Sides:
- Pair crockpot pepper steak with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. The side dish can complement and absorb the flavorful sauce.
- Experiment with Spices:
- Feel free to experiment with additional spices or herbs to customize the dish to your taste. Red pepper flakes can add some heat if you enjoy a spicier kick.
- Avoid Opening the Lid Frequently:
- Each time you open the crockpot lid, heat escapes, and it extends the cooking time. Only open it when necessary to check doneness or add ingredients.
Remember, these tips are general guidelines, and you can always adjust them based on your personal preferences and dietary requirements. Enjoy your delicious crockpot pepper steak
Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about crockpot pepper steak:
- What is crockpot pepper steak?
- Crockpot pepper steak is a slow-cooked dish featuring tender strips of beef, usually sirloin or flank steak, cooked with bell peppers, onions, and a flavorful sauce.
- How do I make crockpot pepper steak?
- Generally, you’ll season and brown the beef, then place it in the slow cooker with sliced bell peppers and onions. A sauce made from ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and broth is poured over the top. Cook on low heat for several hours until the beef is tender.
- Can I use a different cut of beef?
- Yes, you can use other cuts like flank steak or round steak. The key is to choose a cut that benefits from slow cooking to become tender.
- How long does it take to cook in the crockpot?
- Cooking times can vary, but typically, it takes around 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high for the meat to become tender and the flavors to meld.
- Can I prepare crockpot pepper steak ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, simply place everything in the crockpot and start cooking.
- What can I serve with crockpot pepper steak?
- It pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. Some people also serve it with a side of vegetables or a salad.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Yes, you can freeze leftovers for future meals. Store them in airtight containers, and when reheating, you may need to add a bit of water or broth to maintain moisture.
- Can I adjust the level of spiciness?
- Certainly. If you prefer a milder or spicier version, you can adjust the amount of black pepper or add red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
- Is it gluten-free?
- It depends on the ingredients in your recipe. To make it gluten-free, ensure that your soy sauce and any other condiments used are gluten-free.
- Can I use a different color of bell peppers?
- Absolutely. While the traditional recipe often uses green and red bell peppers, you can use any color you prefer or have on hand.
Remember, specific recipes may have unique variations, so it’s always a good idea to check the details of the recipe you’re using
