Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a savory, tender, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With minimal prep and the slow-cooking magic of your crock pot, this meal delivers rich, melt-in-your-mouth beef and caramelized onions in a delicious sauce. Serve it over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a comforting family dinner.

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef sirloin , cut into 2-inch strips
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 2 garlic cloves , minced
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 large onion , sliced (about 1/4-inch thick)

Optional:

  • 2 bell peppers , sliced (red, green, or yellow for added color and flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening the sauce, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Cut the beef sirloin into thin, bite-sized strips. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they brown slightly when cooked.
  2. Slice the onion into thick rings or strips. If using bell peppers, slice them into strips as well.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce , beef broth , Worcestershire sauce , ground ginger , minced garlic , and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves.
  2. Place the beef strips and sliced onion (and bell peppers, if using) into the crock pot. Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the top. Stir gently to coat the beef and vegetables in the sauce.

Step 3: Cook in the Crock Pot

  1. Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6–8 hours or on high heat for 3–4 hours , until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
    • Tip: Cooking on low heat yields the most tender results.

Step 4: Optional Sauce Thickening

  1. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
  2. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir the slurry into the crock pot and let it simmer to thicken the sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Spoon the pepper steak and sauce over cooked white rice , noodles , or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color, if desired.

Tips for Success

  • Beef Selection: Use beef sirloin, flank steak, or ribeye for the best results. Avoid tougher cuts like chuck roast unless cooking for an extended period.
  • Add Vegetables: Customize with other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a fuss-free, one-pot wonder that delivers tender beef, caramelized onions, and a rich, savory sauce with minimal effort. The slow-cooking process ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender, while the combination of soy sauce, Worcestershire, and ginger creates a bold, umami-packed flavor profile. Whether served over rice or noodles, this dish is hearty, satisfying, and sure to become a family favorite.

Indulge in this comforting classic—it’s slow-cooked perfection in every bite!