There’s just something magical about slow-cooked meals, isn’t there? The way they fill the house with warmth and mouthwatering aromas is like a big hug for your soul. My absolute favorite in this cozy category has to be crockpot pepper steak. Picture this: tender slices of beef mingling with colorful bell peppers, all bathed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. It’s pure comfort food! I remember the first time I made it for a chilly family gathering. Everyone gathered around the table, and as we dug in, the smiles on their faces were priceless. It’s a dish that brings people together and makes any day feel special. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!).
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious crockpot pepper steak. I promise, it’s straightforward and all about those fresh flavors!
- 2 pounds beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color you like, but I love the sweetness of red or yellow!)
- 1 onion, sliced (yellow or white works best)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 1 cup beef broth (homemade or store-bought, just make sure it’s good quality)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (I often go for low-sodium to keep it healthier)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (this helps thicken the sauce perfectly)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for that initial browning)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (for a little kick)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste, of course!)
Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be well on your way to a hearty meal that’s sure to impress! Don’t worry if you’re missing something; cooking is all about adapting and making it your own!
How to Prepare Crockpot Pepper Steak
Alright, let’s get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, and I’m here to guide you through it step-by-step. Trust me, once you see how simple it is, you’ll be whipping this up all the time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First things first, grab a large skillet and heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. This step is key because browning the beef adds so much flavor!
- Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef sirloin to the skillet. Let it brown for about 3–4 minutes, turning occasionally. You want those lovely caramelized bits—don’t rush this part!
- After browning, carefully transfer the beef to your crockpot. Don’t worry if some of the bits stick to the pan; they’ll add flavor later!
- Next, toss in the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic right on top of the beef in the crockpot. The colors and aromas are already amazing!
- Now for the sauce! In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, black pepper, and salt. Stir until it’s all combined and smooth. This is where the magic starts to happen!
- Pour that delicious sauce over the beef and veggies in the crockpot. Make sure everything is nicely coated.
- Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours. Yes, it’s a slow process, but that’s what makes it tender and full of flavor. You can go about your day, and your dinner will be waiting for you!
- When it’s done, serve it hot over rice or noodles, and enjoy the cozy goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Oh, where do I even begin? This crockpot pepper steak is a game-changer in so many ways! Here’s why you’re going to adore this dish:
- Convenience: Just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do the work! You can set it and forget it while you tackle your day.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender beef, sweet bell peppers, and savory sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and colorful veggies, this dish is a wholesome meal that’s gluten-free and can be made with low-sodium ingredients!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It makes great leftovers! You can enjoy it for days, making it a fantastic choice for busy weeks.
- Family Favorite: It’s a dish that pleases both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
I promise, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Tips for Success
To make your crockpot pepper steak absolutely perfect, here are a few tips I swear by! First, don’t skip the browning step—trust me, it adds a depth of flavor that makes all the difference. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-sliced beef, but freshly sliced sirloin really elevates the dish.
When it comes to veggies, feel free to mix in other favorites like mushrooms or snap peas for a colorful twist! And if you love a bit of spice, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
For serving, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions on top adds a lovely freshness. Lastly, always taste before serving; adjusting the seasoning to your preference can make this dish even more delicious!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of crockpot pepper steak. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use:
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Sugar: 3g
This dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also a great source of protein and nutrients from those vibrant veggies. Enjoy it guilt-free!
FAQ Section
Got questions about crockpot pepper steak? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear, along with my trusty answers:
Can I use a different cut of beef? Absolutely! While sirloin is my go-to for its tenderness, cuts like flank steak or chuck roast work wonderfully too. Just remember that tougher cuts may need a bit more cooking time.
What if I don’t have beef broth? No problem! You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a lighter version. Just make sure it’s flavorful!
How can I make this dish spicier? If you love heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the mix. You can also use spicy soy sauce for an extra kick.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes! Just let the crockpot pepper steak cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I add more vegetables? Definitely! Feel free to toss in some mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary, as some veggies cook faster than others.
I hope this helps you whip up your perfect crockpot pepper steak! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftover crockpot pepper steak is a delicious treat for the next few days, and storing it properly is super simple! Just let it cool completely after cooking, and then transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days—perfect for quick meals during a busy week!
If you want to enjoy it later, this dish freezes wonderfully. Just make sure to portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it’ll last for about three months. When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge.
For reheating, I recommend popping it in the microwave for a quick fix or gently warming it on the stove over low heat. You might want to add a splash of beef broth or water to keep it nice and juicy. Enjoy every bite of those leftovers!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to pairing with crockpot pepper steak, there are so many delicious options that really elevate the meal! My absolute favorite is serving it over fluffy white rice. The rice soaks up all that savory sauce, making each bite a delight. You could also try it over egg noodles for a comforting twist—those noodles have a lovely way of clinging to the beef and veggies!
If you’re in the mood for something a bit lighter, steamed broccoli or green beans make fantastic sides. They add a pop of color and a nice crunch that balances the dish beautifully. And don’t forget about crusty bread—perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce! No matter what you choose, I guarantee your meal will be a hit!

Crockpot Pepper Steak: 7 Secrets to Pure Comfort Food
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crockpot pepper steak is a hearty dish featuring tender beef and bell peppers in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef sirloin, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the beef slices for 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer beef to the crockpot.
- Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the crockpot.
- In a bowl, mix beef broth, soy sauce, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: crockpot pepper steak, slow cooker beef, pepper steak recipe