This Crock Pot Pepper Steak is a cozy dish that combines tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal that fills your kitchen with yummy smells!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a dish that cooks itself? I like to serve it over rice, so you get all that tasty sauce. It’s perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank Steak: This cut is great for pepper steak. Its lean but flavorful nature makes it tender when cooked low and slow. If flank steak is hard to find, try sirloin or skirt steak as alternatives.
Bell Peppers: I like using both green and red for a colorful dish. You can swap them for other colors like yellow or orange, or even use spicy peppers if you want more heat.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the flavor. Feel free to use low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness, or chicken broth for a milder taste. Homemade broth is great if you have it!
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce works well, but if you’re looking for a lower-sodium option, go for reduced-sodium soy sauce. You can also use tamari for a gluten-free alternative.
Cornstarch: This thickens the sauce nicely. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try arrowroot powder or tapioca starch instead—it works similarly!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Beef in the Crock Pot?
The key to tender beef is ensuring it cooks low and slow. Searing your flank steak before adding it to the crock pot enhances its flavor. Cook it on low for 6-8 hours for best results. If you’re short on time, high for 4-5 hours works too, but check for tenderness.
- Brown the beef in a hot skillet first; this locks in flavors.
- Keep the lid on the crock pot during cooking to trap steam and moisture.
- If the beef isn’t tender enough after cooking, you can let it simmer a little longer.
How to Make Crock Pot Pepper Steak
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak, sliced thinly
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Crock Pot Pepper Steak will take about 15 minutes for preparation and will cook in the crock pot for 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Perfect for a hearty meal with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Steak:
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced flank steak and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it’s browned on both sides. Once done, transfer the seared steak to your crock pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onions, green and red bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies start to soften. When they’re ready, add them to the crock pot with the steak.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, salt, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Stir well to combine all the flavors.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot. Give it a good stir to ensure everything is evenly coated.
5. Cook It:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You want the beef to be nice and tender—just perfect!
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken things up.
7. Final Touches:
Once your dish is cooked, give it a good stir and taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt or pepper to suit your taste.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your pepper steak hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. It’s great over rice or noodles for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef Instead of Flank Steak?
Absolutely! You can substitute flank steak with other cuts like sirloin, chuck roast, or even top round. Just remember that some cuts may require a longer cooking time to become tender, and you may need to adjust seasoning accordingly.
How Do I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
To make this pepper steak gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free as well. Most brands offer gluten-free options that taste great!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Yes, feel free to add more vegetables! Carrots, broccoli, or snap peas can be great additions. Just cut them into similar sizes and add them to the crock pot with the other veggies to ensure even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to help restore moisture. This dish also freezes well, so consider freezing portions for later use!
