Introduction
The aroma of a hearty meal simmering all day is a simple pleasure, especially for those with busy schedules. Our Crock Pot Pepper Steak delivers just that: tender strips of beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a savory sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection with minimal fuss. This classic dish, beloved for its comforting flavors and easy preparation, makes weeknight dinners feel like a gourmet experience without the gourmet effort. It’s a smart choice for home cooks seeking warmth and robust flavor, promising a delicious payoff. Prepare to impress and delight your taste buds with this effortless culinary gem.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh, quality ingredients for this slow-cooked journey:
* 2 lbs flank steak or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large onion, thinly sliced
* 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), seeded and thinly sliced
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1/2 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
* 1/4 cup cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons brown sugar, packed
* 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
* 1 teaspoon black pepper
* Cooked white rice or noodles, for serving
* Sesame seeds and sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef: Pat steak slices dry. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear beef in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned, locking in flavor. Transfer seared beef to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add sliced onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in bell peppers and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender-crisp. Transfer vegetables to the slow cooker with the beef.
3. Whisk the Sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk beef broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, brown sugar, grated ginger, and black pepper until smooth. Cornstarch ensures a luscious sauce.
4. Combine and Cook: Pour sauce over beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to coat, then cover.
5. Slow Cook: Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until beef is fork-tender and peppers are soft. Longer cook time melds flavors beautifully.
6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot over fluffy white rice or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds and fresh green onions for elegance and flavor.
Expert Tips
* Searing is Key: Don’t skip searing the beef! It adds a depth of flavor and a lovely caramelized crust otherwise missed in slow cooking.
* Slice Against the Grain: Always slice steak against the grain. This shortens muscle fibers, ensuring incredibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
* Cornstarch Slurry: For a thicker sauce, remove 1/2 cup hot liquid during the last 30 minutes, whisk in an additional tablespoon of cornstarch, then return to the slow cooker, stirring well.
* Don’t Overcrowd: When browning meat, work in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding can steam the meat instead of searing it, impacting flavor.
Variations
* Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the sauce for those who enjoy a little heat.
* Vegetable Medley: Incorporate other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn during the last hour of cooking for added texture and nutrition.
* Pineapple Tang: For sweetness and acidity, add a small can of drained pineapple chunks (or rings, quartered) along with the vegetables for a delightful Hawaiian-inspired twist.
* Gluten-Free Option: Substitute soy sauce with a gluten-free tamari and ensure your beef broth is also gluten-free.
Conclusion
Our Crock Pot Pepper Steak is more than just a meal; it’s a testament to the magic of slow cooking, transforming simple ingredients into a rich, flavorful experience that satisfies the soul. With its tender beef, crisp-tender peppers, and a savory, aromatic sauce, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that allows you to reclaim your evening. We hope this recipe becomes a cherished staple, bringing warmth, comfort, and delicious moments to your table. Enjoy the ease, embrace the flavor, and savor every bite!
