Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a dish that dances on your taste buds and swirls around your kitchen with the aroma of savory beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a medley of spices. Imagine coming home to find your slow cooker working its magic, filling the air with the rich scent of tender steak simmering in a sauce that’s both tangy and sweet. If you love melt-in-your-mouth meats and a flavor explosion that could make even the pickiest eater do a happy dance, then this recipe is for you!
Growing up, my family had a tradition of gathering around the dinner table every Sunday evening. My mom would whip up something amazing, but her Slow Cooker Pepper Steak was always the star of the show. It was our culinary comfort blanket—warm, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Now that I’m in charge of my own kitchen, I make it for my friends during game nights or cozy get-togethers. No one leaves hungry or without asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful blend of flavors that everyone loves
- The vibrant colors of bell peppers make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Its versatility means you can serve it over rice, noodles, or even in a wrap!
- Perfect for those busy weekdays or casual gatherings with friends
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Flank Steak: A tender cut ideal for slow cooking; look for bright red color with minimal fat.
Bell Peppers: Use red and green for color and sweetness; slice them thinly for even cooking.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the flavor; slice it into rings or half-moons.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide pungency; minced ensures it’s well-distributed throughout the dish.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still packing flavor.
For the Sauce:
Beef Broth: Adds moisture and richness; opt for low-sodium to keep it balanced.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce for that perfect texture; mix with water before adding.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by slicing your flank steak into thin strips against the grain. This helps ensure tenderness when cooked. Next, chop your bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant—about one minute. This step boosts flavor immensely!
Step 3: Assemble in Slow Cooker
Place the sliced steak at the bottom of your slow cooker. Layer on the bell peppers and onion next. Pour the sautéed garlic over them like it’s confetti!
Step 4: Mix Up the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, cornstarch mixed with water, and any additional seasonings you like such as black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Pour Sauce Over Ingredients
Carefully pour your sauce mixture over everything in your slow cooker. Give it a gentle stir so all ingredients are coated.
Step 6: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and set your slow cooker on low heat for about six to eight hours. This allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together while making your home smell like heaven.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve it over fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up all that delicious goodness! Enjoy every bite as though you’ve just discovered culinary gold!
You Must Know
- Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl
- The tenderness of the beef, combined with vibrant peppers and savory sauce, makes it an irresistible choice for any dinner table
- Perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the beef for that delicious caramelized flavor. While the beef is sizzling, chop your veggies and prepare the sauce. Combine everything in your slow cooker, set it to low, and let that magic happen.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak! Swap out bell peppers for mushrooms or add some heat with jalapeños. You can even toss in some broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. Enjoy your savory creation again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your beef is well-seared before slow cooking; this step enhances flavor and texture significantly
- Don’t overcrowd your crockpot; give those ingredients room to mingle and develop rich flavors
- Adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking to keep flavors balanced and fresh
I still remember the first time I made Slow Cooker Pepper Steak for my family. Their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning when they took their first bite. It was an instant hit!
FAQs :
What is Slow Cooker Pepper Steak?
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a hearty dish made with tender beef, bell peppers, and a savory sauce. This easy-to-make recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully as it cooks slowly. The slow cooker method helps in achieving a tender texture, making it ideal for busy families who want a delicious meal without much effort. Serve it over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.
How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Pepper Steak?
Cooking Slow Cooker Pepper Steak typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the beef to become exceptionally tender and flavorful. It’s essential to check the doneness towards the end of the cooking time, ensuring the meat reaches the desired tenderness. Preparing this dish in advance makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Slow Cooker Pepper Steak ahead of time. Prepare the ingredients and place them in the slow cooker the night before, then refrigerate. In the morning, simply plug in your slow cooker and let your meal cook throughout the day. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a home-cooked dish even on your busiest days.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Pepper Steak?
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over steaming white rice or egg noodles for a classic combination. You can also offer steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to complement the richness of the dish. These sides add color and balance to your meal, making it not only delicious but visually appealing as well.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak :
In summary, Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is an easy and flavorful recipe that your family will adore. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that simmers throughout the day. This dish is not only satisfying but also adaptable; feel free to experiment with different vegetables or sides based on your family’s preferences. Enjoying this delicious meal will surely become a cherished tradition in your household!
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender flank steak with colorful bell peppers in a savory sauce. This easy recipe allows the flavors to meld beautifully as it cooks, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, serve it over rice, noodles, or in a wrap. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this comforting dish will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs flank steak, sliced against the grain
- 2 medium bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water
Instructions
- Slice flank steak into thin strips.
- Sauté minced garlic in a skillet over medium heat until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Place the sliced steak in the slow cooker and layer the bell peppers and onion on top.
- Pour sautéed garlic over the vegetables.
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, and cornstarch mixture; pour over ingredients in the slow cooker.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours until beef is tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
