Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner that practically makes itself, then this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe is for you. I absolutely love how the tender strips of sirloin soak up the savory sauce, with just the right kick of pepper and a touch of sweetness. Once you try this, you’ll find it’s one of those go-to meals that everyone in the family goes crazy for, especially when paired with fluffy white rice. Trust me, the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting while you enjoy some hands-off time!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe comes alive with simple, fresh ingredients that work together like old friends. You’ll appreciate the combination of crisp bell peppers and tender beef, while staples like soy sauce and garlic add depth. When shopping, look for a good-quality sirloin and fresh bell peppers to make all the difference.

• Sirloin steak: Choose a lean cut as it slices nicely and cooks tender in the slow cooker.
• Green and red bell peppers: These bring color, crunch, and subtle sweetness.
• White onion: Adds savory depth and mellows beautifully with slow cooking.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a punch of aromatic goodness.
• Ginger: Adds a subtle zing and warmth, perfectly complementing the sauce.
• Salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper: For seasoning and that signature peppery heat.
• White sugar: Just a touch to balance the sauce’s savory components.
• Soy sauce: The umami backbone of this recipe, opt for low-sodium if you want to watch salt.
• Beef broth: Helps create the rich sauce and keeps everything moist.
• Cornstarch: To thicken the sauce at the end and give it that glossy finish.

Variations

I love how versatile this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe is, so feel free to make it your own. Whether you want to dial up the spice or sneak in extra veggies, it’s easy to adjust and still come out delicious. Don’t hesitate to customize it based on what you have in your fridge or dietary preferences.

• Spicy variation: I’ve added a splash of Sriracha or extra crushed red pepper when I want it fiery—my family loves the heat!
• Vegetable boost: Sometimes, I toss in mushrooms or snap peas in the last hour for added texture.
• Low-carb option: Skip the sugar and serve over cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
• Made ahead sauce: You can mix up the sauce ingredients in advance and refrigerate for a day to save time on busy nights.

How to Make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beef and Veggies the Right Way

First, here’s a tip I discovered that changed everything for me: freeze the sirloin for about 20 minutes before slicing—it firms the meat, making it so much easier to cut into those thin, tender strips. Then, slice your green and red bell peppers along with the onion into even ¼-inch strips. Layer the beef at the bottom of your slow cooker, then arrange the bell peppers and onions on top. This layering helps the meat cook gently with the flavors.

Step 2: Whisk Your Sauce Like a Pro

In a separate bowl, whisk together minced garlic, fresh ginger, salt, black pepper, crushed red pepper, sugar, soy sauce, and beef broth until smooth and lump-free. This sauce is where all the magic happens! Pour it evenly over the layered ingredients in the slow cooker, making sure everything is nicely coated.

Step 3: Slow and Low, or Fast and Hot

Cover the slow cooker and choose your cooking time. I usually go for low and slow—6 to 7 hours—because the beef becomes irresistibly tender and the flavors develop deeply. But if you’re pressed for time, cooking on high for 3 to 4 hours works great, too. Just avoid opening the lid too often since it lengthens the cooking time.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce and Serve

When your slow cooker timer goes off, mix cornstarch with a splash of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker. Let it cook for about 15 minutes more to thicken up. This step gives you that silky, glossy sauce you’ll want to spoon over everything. Serve your slow cooker pepper steak piping hot over fluffy white rice and watch everyone dig in with smiles.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

Garnishes

I like to finish this dish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a fresh, mild onion flavor and a handful of toasted sesame seeds to add a subtle crunch and nutty note. These little touches really brighten up the dish and make it feel special without much effort.

Side Dishes

This slow cooker pepper steak shines served over steaming white rice—it soaks up every bit of that luscious sauce perfectly. For a veggie side, steamed broccoli or snap peas balance the meal beautifully and add a nice pop of green. Occasionally, I’ll pair it with garlic fried rice for an extra comforting vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner party, I like serving this in small bowls on a wooden board with individual portions of rice and garnish on the side. It invites everyone to customize their own plate. You could also wrap portions in lettuce cups for a fun, handheld twist that’s great for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After dinner, I let the pepper steak cool slightly before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it stays delicious for 3 to 4 days. When reheating, I use a skillet on medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to revive the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes really well. I like to portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to label them with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove to keep the beef tender.

Reheating

For the best texture and flavor, reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave at medium power. Adding a bit of liquid, like broth or water, helps restore the sauce’s silky consistency, so don’t skip that step. Avoid reheating multiple times to keep the beef as tender as the first day.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe has earned a permanent spot in my dinner rotation because it’s reliable, delicious, and fuss-free. What I love most is how it welcomes little tweaks to make it your own while still delivering that comforting, satisfying flavor every time. So, if you’re looking to impress with minimal effort, give this recipe a try—you’ll be glad you did!

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