Crock Pot Pepper Steak

Crock Pot Pepper Steak has become my go to when I want a cozy dinner with big flavor but minimal effort. Beautifully tender beef, colorful peppers, and a savory sauce all meld together while you go about your day, making the house smell amazing by dinnertime. This meal brings everyone to the table and there is never a spoonful left over.

My family is always excited when I tell them pepper steak is on the menu. The comfort and aroma of this dish remind me of many Sunday dinners where we all came running to the kitchen as soon as we could smell dinner cooking.

Ingredients

• Beef sirloin or flank steak: sliced into thin strips for extra tenderness and quick cooking Choose a well marbled cut for the juiciest result
• Bell peppers: use a mix of red yellow and green for color sweet flavor and a vitamin boost Look for firm peppers with shiny skin
• Medium onion: sliced to add sweetness and richness as it cooks Choose a heavy onion with dry crispy skin
• Beef broth: gives depth and umami to the sauce Opt for low sodium if possible so you can control seasoning
• Low sodium soy sauce: provides saltiness and savory backbone to the sauce Look for clear dark brown color and a balanced aroma
• Worcestershire sauce: lends a complex tangy sweet note and unique flavor Choose a trusted brand with a deep rich color
• Brown sugar or honey: to balance out the salt and tang and add a touch of caramelized sweetness Use soft light brown sugar or raw honey for best taste
• Garlic: minced to bring warmth and sharpness Pick fresh plump bulbs with no green shoots
• Ground or fresh ginger: adds zing and freshness Go for firm smooth ginger roots if grating fresh
• Optional red pepper flakes: for a slight kick Choose crushed flakes with a deep red color and avoid ones that look faded or dry

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Sauce:

In a large mixing bowl whisk beef broth soy sauce Worcestershire sauce brown sugar minced garlic and ginger until smooth and well combined This makes your flavor loaded braising liquid

Prep the Beef:

Slice the beef into very thin strips across the grain to ensure tenderness Pat dry then season lightly with salt and pepper This helps the beef brown just a bit as it braises

Layer in the Crock Pot:

Arrange the sliced beef on the bottom of your slow cooker Pile the bell pepper strips and onions on top Pour the sauce mixture evenly across everything making sure it seeps throughout the pot

Slow Cook:

Cover and cook on low for about five to six hours or on high for three to four hours The beef should be tender and peppers soft Stir gently about halfway if you can so everything flavors evenly

Finish and Serve:

Taste for seasoning and add a splash more soy sauce or a touch of salt if desired Serve the pepper steak hot spooned over steamed rice mashed potatoes or even crusty bread Make sure to ladle plenty of the delicious sauce over each serving

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The ginger in this recipe is my secret for brightness I remember once my niece asked what made it taste so lively and now she always insists I double the ginger Each time we sit down to this meal it turns any ordinary evening into something a bit special

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to three days The sauce keeps the meat juicy and the flavors deepen overnight To reheat warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts stirring in between Be sure not to overcook or the beef can get dry

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have sirloin you can swap with chicken thighs trimmed and sliced Or try tofu for a vegetarian version Make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed If fresh ginger is not available use about half the amount of ground ginger and add a squeeze of lemon for a little brightness

Serving Suggestions

This pepper steak begs for a fluffy bed to soak up the sauce Steamed jasmine rice is always a winner but mashed potatoes or thick slices of toasted bread work beautifully too For a fresh touch try a crisp side salad or simple steamed broccoli to round out the meal

Cultural Context

Pepper steak has its roots in Chinese American cuisine blending beef and bright peppers in a soy based sauce It is a favorite comfort dish in many households for its wonderful sauce and familiar flavors While this version is a slow cooker twist the spirit of simple hearty shared meals remains

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ What cut of beef works best for this dish?

Sirloin or flank steak is ideal, as both become tender when slow-cooked and absorb the savory sauce well.

→ Can I substitute the bell peppers?

Yes, feel free to use any color bell peppers or add vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.

→ How can I serve this pepper steak?

Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread. Steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also pair well.

→ Is it possible to make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce along with the other seasonings for mild to moderate heat.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

→ Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely. Chicken, pork, or tofu can replace beef for a different twist while keeping the same cooking method.