Let me tell you, making pepper steak in a crock pot is one of the easiest and most satisfying meals you can whip up! Seriously, there’s something magical about letting all those flavors meld together slowly while you go about your day. I love how the crock pot takes all the effort out of cooking—just toss everything in, set it, and forget it! The result? Tender, juicy steak that practically melts in your mouth, paired with vibrant peppers and onions that soak up all that delicious sauce.

This recipe is a family favorite for a reason! I remember the first time I made it; the aroma wafted through the house, and my kids couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s such a breeze to serve over rice or noodles, making dinner feel like a treat without any fuss. Trust me, once you try this pepper steak in a crock pot, you’ll be adding it to your meal rotation in no time!

Ingredients for Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this flavorful pepper steak in a crock pot. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 pounds of flank steak, sliced: Flank steak is perfect for this recipe because it’s lean and becomes incredibly tender when cooked low and slow. Make sure to slice it against the grain for the best texture!
1 bell pepper, sliced: You can use any color you like—red, green, or yellow will all add a splash of color and sweetness. Slice it thin so it cooks evenly and blends well with the steak.
1 onion, sliced: A sweet or yellow onion works best here. The onion will caramelize during cooking, adding a wonderful depth of flavor to your dish.
3 cloves of garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic punch! Don’t skimp on this; it really elevates the overall taste.
1 cup of beef broth: This adds moisture and richness to the dish. You can use homemade or store-bought, just make sure it’s low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
1/4 cup of soy sauce: Soy sauce brings that savory, umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the beef. If you’re gluten-free, you can use tamari instead!
2 tablespoons of cornstarch: This helps thicken the sauce, making it rich and satisfying. You can mix it with a little water to avoid clumping.
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil: Use this for browning the steak. It adds a nice sear and flavor before it goes into the crock pot.
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! Adjust to your preference, but remember that the soy sauce adds some saltiness too.

With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to a delicious meal that your whole family will love! Make sure everything is prepped and ready to go so you can enjoy the cooking process without any last-minute scrambling.

How to Prepare Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing this delicious pepper steak in a crock pot! I promise, it’s as straightforward as it gets, and you’ll love how effortlessly it all comes together. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal waiting for you by dinnertime!

Preparing the Flank Steak

First things first, we need to give that flank steak a little love! Heat up the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the sliced flank steak in batches to avoid overcrowding. You want to brown it well on both sides—this step is crucial because it locks in those juicy flavors! It should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, carefully transfer the steak to your crock pot. Ooh, that sear is going to add so much flavor!

Adding Vegetables and Seasoning

Next up, it’s time to layer in those vibrant veggies! Sprinkle the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic right on top of the steak in the crock pot. I love the colors they bring; it’s like a little rainbow of flavor! Now, here’s a tip: don’t forget to season! A good sprinkle of salt and pepper over the top at this stage really helps enhance everything as it cooks. You can always adjust the seasoning later, but starting off right is key!

Mixing the Sauce

Now, let’s whip up that savory sauce! In a bowl, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Whisk it until it’s smooth—this will ensure that the cornstarch doesn’t clump up when you pour it in. Once it’s all mixed, pour this heavenly mixture over the steak and veggies in the crock pot. Make sure everything is nicely coated; the sauce is what brings all those flavors together!

Cooking Time and Temperature

Time to set it and forget it! You can choose to cook your pepper steak on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your schedule. If you can, I highly recommend the low and slow method; it really lets the flavors develop and the steak become incredibly tender. And here’s a little tip: about 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir to mix everything up. This also helps to check the doneness—your steak should be fork-tender and bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pepper steak in a crock pot is a game changer for busy cooks like me! Seriously, there are so many reasons to love this dish, and I can’t wait to share them with you. Each bite is bursting with flavor and tenderness, making it a perfect addition to your family meals. Here are just a few reasons why you’ll adore this recipe:

Convenience: Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it do the work! You can set it in the morning and come home to a delicious, home-cooked meal without any fuss.
Flavorful: The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich and savory sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Tender Meat: Cooking flank steak low and slow ensures it turns out incredibly tender—no chewing required! It’s practically melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Customizable: Feel free to throw in your favorite vegetables or swap out ingredients to suit your taste. It’s a versatile recipe that welcomes creativity!
Perfect for Leftovers: This dish makes fantastic leftovers! The flavors deepen even more overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch a treat.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty meal. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying dinner.

With all these perks, it’s no wonder this pepper steak in a crock pot has become a staple in my kitchen. I bet it’ll become a favorite in yours, too!

Tips for Success

To make sure your pepper steak in a crock pot turns out absolutely perfect every time, I’ve got some handy tips that I’ve learned along the way. Trust me, a little extra attention can go a long way in enhancing the flavors and texture of this dish!

Choose Quality Meat: Using a good-quality flank steak is key! Look for meat with a nice marbling of fat; this will keep it juicy and tender during the slow cooking process.
Don’t Skip the Browning: I know it’s tempting to skip the browning step, but please don’t! Searing the steak before putting it in the crock pot adds such a deep flavor that you won’t want to miss out on.
Adjust for Your Preferences: Feel free to swap out the bell pepper for other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or even snap peas! Just keep in mind that some vegetables cook faster than others, so add those delicate ones later in the cooking process.
Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a little more cornstarch with water before adding it to the dish. You can do this about 30 minutes before serving—just give everything a good stir!
Seasoning Matters: Always taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Depending on your beef broth and soy sauce, you might want to add a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper.
Let it Rest: Once it’s done cooking, let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more flavorful!
Store Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftovers (which I highly doubt, because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll taste even better the next day!

By following these tips, you’ll set yourself up for success in creating an unforgettable pepper steak in a crock pot. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

Nutritional Information

Knowing the nutritional breakdown of your meals can be super helpful, especially when you’re trying to stay on track with your diet! Here’s the estimated nutritional information for this delightful pepper steak in a crock pot, based on standard ingredients:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 35g

This is just an estimate, and actual values may vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But it’s a great starting point to understand what you’re enjoying! Plus, with the protein-packed steak and vibrant veggies, you’re sure to feel satisfied after this meal. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re fueling your body right!

FAQ About Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

I know you might have some questions about making this delicious pepper steak in a crock pot, so I’ve gathered a few common ones to help you out. Let’s dive into the details and clear up any uncertainties you might have!

Can I use a different cut of meat?

Absolutely! While flank steak is my favorite for its tenderness, you can also use cuts like sirloin or chuck roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness and fat content of the meat.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in extra veggies like carrots, mushrooms, or even snap peas. Just remember that some veggies cook faster than others, so add heartier ones at the beginning and more delicate ones during the last hour of cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble everything and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the crock pot.

What can I serve with pepper steak?

This pepper steak is fantastic served over rice or noodles, but you can also pair it with mashed potatoes or even quinoa for a healthy twist. Don’t forget a sprinkle of green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of freshness!

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How do I know when the beef is done?

Your pepper steak is done when the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. If you find it’s still a bit tough, let it cook for another 30 minutes and check again. Patience pays off when it comes to slow cooking!

Can I adjust the spice level?

Of course! If you like a little kick, add some sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes to the mix. Just start with a small amount, and you can always add more if you like it spicier!

Hopefully, these FAQs help you feel more confident about diving into this pepper steak in a crock pot. Remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works best for you and your taste buds! Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious pepper steak in a crock pot, let’s talk about storing those tasty leftovers! This dish is just as good the next day, so you’ll want to keep it fresh and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the pepper steak to cool down to room temperature before storing. Transfer it into an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll keep well for up to 3 days. I love heating it up for a quick lunch!
Freezing: If you’ve got a lot left over, you can freeze it! Just make sure it’s completely cooled, then place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. You might want to label it with the date so you know when it was made.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze!

Reheating from the Fridge: Simply warm it up in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave—just cover it with a microwave-safe lid and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Reheating from the Freezer: For frozen leftovers, it’s best to thaw overnight in the fridge. Once thawed, follow the same reheating instructions as above. If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat it directly from frozen in a saucepan, but it’ll take a bit longer to warm through.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your pepper steak in a crock pot for days to come. Enjoy every bite, knowing that deliciousness is just a quick heat away!

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot: 7 Irresistible Flavor Secrets

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Crock Pot
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A flavorful and tender pepper steak made in a crock pot.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds of flank steak, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of beef broth
1/4 cup of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of cornstarch
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
Brown the flank steak on both sides.
Transfer the steak to the crock pot.
Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic on top of the steak.
In a bowl, mix beef broth, soy sauce, and cornstarch.
Pour the mixture over the steak and vegetables.
Season with salt and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Stir before serving.

Notes

Serve over rice or noodles.
You can add other vegetables like mushrooms or carrots.
Adjust seasoning to your preference.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: pepper steak, crock pot, slow cooker steak

Spread the love