Description
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a tender, flavorful dish featuring slow-cooked beef strips, soft bell peppers, and a savory tomato-soy sauce blend. It’s easy, comforting, and perfect for busy days when you want a hearty homemade meal without the effort.
Introduction
Slow cooker meals like this Pepper Steak are classic family favorites. The long cooking time transforms simple ingredients—beef sirloin, bell peppers, onions, and stewed tomatoes—into a rich and comforting dish with deep flavor. Everything simmers together in a savory sauce that thickens beautifully and coats each bite of tender beef. Whether served over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, this recipe delivers big flavor with almost no hands-on work.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef strips
Minimal prep and effortless slow cooking
Perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a family
Rich, savory sauce with peppers and tomatoes
Works with rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice
Ingredients
2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 2-inch strips
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 beef bouillon cube
¼ cup hot water
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ cup chopped onion
2 large green bell peppers, roughly chopped
1 can (14.5 ounces) stewed tomatoes, with liquid
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon white sugar
1 teaspoon salt
Instructions (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Season the Beef
Sprinkle the beef sirloin strips with garlic powder and set aside.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the beef strips and sear for about 5 minutes per side until browned.
Transfer the beef to your crock pot.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Base
In a small bowl, dissolve the beef bouillon cube in ¼ cup hot water.
Stir in the cornstarch until fully dissolved.
Pour this mixture over the beef in the crock pot.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, stewed tomatoes with liquid, soy sauce, sugar, and salt.
Stir gently to combine.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
• On High for 3–4 hours
• On Low for 6–8 hours
Cook until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, or cauliflower rice.
Variations
Add red or yellow bell peppers for more color
Use crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce
Add sliced mushrooms for extra richness
Swap beef sirloin with flank steak or chuck for added tenderness
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor
Tips for the Best Results
Brown the beef first for the best flavor
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when searing
Cut peppers into big chunks so they don’t turn mushy
If the sauce is thin at the end, simmer uncovered on High for 10 minutes
Taste and adjust seasoning right before serving
Storage Tips
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months
Reheat slowly on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed
Flavors deepen even more on the second day
Serving Suggestions
Serve over white rice, jasmine rice, or fried rice
Pair with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles
Add a side salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced plate
Enjoy in a bowl with crusty bread to soak up the sauce
FAQs
Can I add red pepper flakes?
Yes, a pinch adds a great spicy kick.
Can I skip searing the beef?
You can, but searing adds much better flavor and color.
Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, especially if you want more control over the saltiness.
Will frozen peppers work?
They can, but fresh peppers hold their texture better.
Conclusion
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a cozy, flavorful dish that brings tender beef, sweet peppers, and a rich savory sauce together with almost no effort. It’s perfect for busy days, family meals, or meal prepping ahead of time. Once you try this slow-cooked version, it’s sure to become a repeat favorite.