Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a perfect way to enjoy tender beef and vibrant bell peppers in a flavorful sauce, all with minimal effort. This easy slow cooker recipe brings out the best in the ingredients, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week. With just a few steps, you’ll have a comforting and delicious meal that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tbsp water
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the sliced steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer to the crock pot.
2. Combine Ingredients: Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic on top of the beef in the crock pot.
3. Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, beef broth, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.
4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
5. Thicken the Sauce: Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir it into the crock pot in the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
6. Serve: Serve the pepper steak over rice or noodles. Enjoy!

Storing and Preserving

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals until hot, or warm it on the stovetop over medium heat. For freezing, place in a freezer-safe bag, removing excess air before sealing, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

1. Not searing the beef: This step enhances flavor; don’t skip it!
2. Overcooking vegetables: Slice peppers and onions thicker to keep them from becoming too mushy.
3. Sauce too thin: Be sure to add the cornstarch mixture towards the end to thicken the sauce.
4. Using low-quality beef: Opt for sirloin or flank steak for the best texture and flavor.
5. Not adjusting seasoning: Taste before serving and adjust salt or pepper as needed.

FAQs About Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot

1. Can I use frozen beef?
   Yes, but thaw the beef first for even cooking.
2. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Mushrooms, broccoli, or snap peas make great additions.
3. Is it okay to cook on high the whole time?
   Yes, but cooking on low yields a more tender result.
4. What can I use instead of soy sauce?
   Try coconut aminos or tamari for a similar flavor.
5. How do I make this spicier?
   Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for extra heat.

Conclusion

Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and sure to please the whole family. With simple ingredients and a hands-off cooking approach, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something comforting without much fuss. Try it with your favorite sides, and enjoy this savory meal time and time again!