If you’re searching for a savory and satisfying meal with minimal fuss, look no further than this Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner, this dish combines tender sirloin steak with vibrant bell peppers and a flavorful sauce, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. With a few simple steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 white onion, sliced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 pounds of sirloin steak, cut into strips
- 2 tsp garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- ⅔ cup hot water
- 1 cube beef bouillon
- 3 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1 tbsp Cornstarch
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
FIRST STEP: Heat the Olive Oil in a skillet. Add the steak strips to the skillet and sauté until browned on each side. This step adds a delicious sear to the meat, enhancing its flavor.
SECOND STEP: Dissolve the beef bouillon cube in the hot water and pour the mixture into the crockpot. Whisk in the cornstarch until fully combined, creating a smooth base for your sauce.
THIRD STEP: Add the Worcestershire Sauce, Soy Sauce, and brown sugar to the crockpot. Stir in the diced tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
FOURTH STEP: Add the browned beef and sliced onions to the crockpot. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 3 hours. The slow cooking process ensures the meat becomes tender and absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
FIFTH STEP: About an hour before serving, add the sliced bell peppers to the crockpot. Allow them to cook until tender. Garnish with thinly sliced green onion for a fresh touch.
Serve your Crockpot Pepper Steak with a side of rice and a crisp dinner salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender textures of this hearty dish!
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving Tips:
- Pair with Sides: Serve your Crockpot Pepper Steak over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal. It also goes well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables.
- Garnish: Enhance the dish with a garnish of thinly sliced green onions or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor and a pop of color.
- Add a Fresh Salad: Complement your meal with a crisp dinner salad. A simple green salad or a tangy coleslaw can balance the rich flavors of the steak.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, they can be repurposed in a variety of ways. Use the pepper steak as a filling for wraps, tacos, or sandwiches.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Crockpot Pepper Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the pepper steak. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen pepper steak in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Following these serving and storage tips will help you enjoy your Crockpot Pepper Steak at its best, whether freshly made or as a delicious leftover.
Variations:
1. Spicy Pepper Steak
- Ingredients: Add 1-2 sliced jalapeños or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the crockpot.
- Details: For a kick of heat, incorporate spicy peppers or red pepper flakes. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference, and remember to taste as you go.
2. Pepper Steak with Mushrooms
- Ingredients: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the crockpot.
- Details: Mushrooms add a rich, earthy flavor that complements the steak and peppers. Sauté the mushrooms with the steak in the first step or add them directly to the crockpot.
3. Sweet and Sour Pepper Steak
- Ingredients: Replace the brown sugar with 3 tablespoons of pineapple juice and add 1 cup of pineapple chunks.
- Details: This variation introduces a sweet and tangy element to the dish. The pineapple juice and chunks infuse the steak with a delightful sweet and sour flavor.
4. Pepper Steak with Broccoli
- Ingredients: Add 2 cups of chopped broccoli florets to the crockpot during the last hour of cooking.
- Details: Broccoli adds a healthy crunch and color to the dish. Add it towards the end of cooking to ensure it stays crisp and vibrant.
5. Thai-Inspired Pepper Steak
- Ingredients: Substitute the soy sauce with 3 tablespoons of Thai fish sauce, add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, and incorporate 1 tablespoon of lime juice and a handful of fresh basil leaves.
- Details: For a Thai twist, use fish sauce for a more authentic flavor profile. The lime juice adds a tangy note, while basil provides a fresh, aromatic touch.
6. Pepper Steak with Potatoes
- Ingredients: Add 2 cups of diced potatoes to the crockpot at the beginning of the cooking time.
- Details: Potatoes cook alongside the steak and absorb the flavorful sauce. This variation makes the dish more filling and turns it into a one-pot meal.
7. Pepper Steak with Tomatoes and Olives
- Ingredients: Add 1 cup of sliced black or green olives and 1 cup of cherry tomatoes to the crockpot.
- Details: Olives bring a briny, savory flavor, while cherry tomatoes add a burst of freshness. This variation provides a Mediterranean twist to the traditional recipe.
8. Low-Sodium Pepper Steak
- Ingredients: Use low-sodium soy sauce and a low-sodium beef bouillon cube.
- Details: For a healthier option, opt for low-sodium versions of soy sauce and bouillon. This variation helps reduce the overall sodium content of the dish while maintaining its delicious flavor.
Feel free to experiment with these variations to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Each twist offers a unique take on the classic Crockpot Pepper Steak, making it easy to enjoy a new flavor profile every time!
FAQs:
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast or flank steak. Just ensure you cut the beef into strips and adjust the cooking time if needed.
2. Can I make Crockpot Pepper Steak ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance. Store the cooked pepper steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
3. Can I freeze Crockpot Pepper Steak?
Yes, you can freeze the dish. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and store it for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the sauce and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to thicken.
5. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Chop them finely and add them to the crockpot. Note that the cooking time might vary slightly.
6. How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add more heat, incorporate sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the crockpot. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference.
7. Can I use a different type of bell pepper?
Feel free to use any color of bell pepper—yellow, orange, or red. Each will add a slightly different flavor and color to the dish.
8. Can I add vegetables other than bell peppers?
Yes, you can add other vegetables such as mushrooms, carrots, or broccoli. Add them during the last hour of cooking to ensure they are tender but not overcooked.
9. How do I adjust the cooking time for a smaller or larger quantity?
For a smaller quantity, reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes to 1 hour. For a larger quantity, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Make sure the beef is tender before serving.
10. Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the stovetop. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables in a large pot. Add the remaining ingredients and simmer on low heat for about 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
These FAQs should help address common questions and provide additional tips for making the most out of your Crockpot Pepper Steak!