PEPPER STEAK IN A CROCK POT

This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. The slow cooking process tenderizes the beef sirloin strips and infuses them with the rich flavors of garlic, soy sauce, and stewed tomatoes. With the added crunch of green bell peppers, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

  • 2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 2-inch strips
  • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cube beef bouillon
  • ¼ cup hot water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 2 large green bell peppers, roughly chopped
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes, with liquid
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Prepare the Beef:

  • Sprinkle the beef sirloin strips with garlic powder for added flavor.
  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the beef strips. Cook for about 5 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the seared beef strips to your slow cooker.

2. Make the Broth:

  • In a separate container, dissolve the beef bouillon cube in ¼ cup of hot water. Stir in the cornstarch until completely dissolved, creating a smooth mixture.
  • Pour this mixture over the beef strips in the slow cooker.

3. Add the Vegetables and Seasoning:

  • Stir in the chopped onion, green bell peppers, stewed tomatoes (including the liquid), soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Cook the Pepper Steak:

  • Cover the slow cooker and cook on High for 3 to 4 hours, or on Low for 6 to 8 hours. The longer cooking time on Low will result in more tender beef.
  • Stir occasionally if possible, especially toward the end of the cooking time, to blend the flavors.

5. Serve:

  • Once the pepper steak is cooked, serve it hot over a bed of steamed rice or with mashed potatoes. The rich sauce from the crock pot pairs beautifully with a simple side dish.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 6-8 hours on Low or 3-4 hours on High | Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 6 servings

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Pairing Suggestions: Serve the Pepper Steak over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. It also pairs well with mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting, hearty meal.
  2. Garnishing: For an added burst of freshness, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a nice touch.
  3. Side Dishes: Complement the meal with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the Pepper Steak.
  4. Portion Control: Serve in shallow bowls to help keep the meat and sauce together, making it easier to enjoy every bite. A serving size of about 1 cup of the Pepper Steak mixture is typical.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Pepper Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.
  2. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the Pepper Steak. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  3. Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered, in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until warm.
  4. Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the beef as it can become tough. Heat just until warmed through to maintain the tender texture.

These tips will help you enjoy your Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot at its best, whether you’re serving it fresh or savoring leftovers!

Variations:

  1. Spicy Pepper Steak: Add a kick of heat by incorporating sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes into the mix. You can also use a spicy soy sauce or add a splash of hot sauce to the dish.
  2. Sweet and Sour Pepper Steak: For a sweet and tangy twist, replace the stewed tomatoes with a can of pineapple chunks (including the juice) and add 2 tablespoons of vinegar. This variation gives the dish a sweet and sour flavor that complements the savory beef.
  3. Ginger-Soy Pepper Steak: Add freshly grated ginger and a tablespoon of hoisin sauce or oyster sauce to the slow cooker for an Asian-inspired flavor profile. The ginger adds a zesty kick that pairs well with the soy sauce.
  4. Mushroom Pepper Steak: Enhance the dish with earthy flavors by adding sliced mushrooms along with the onions and bell peppers. The mushrooms will absorb the rich sauce, making each bite even more flavorful.
  5. Teriyaki Pepper Steak: Substitute the soy sauce with teriyaki sauce and add a tablespoon of honey for a sweet, umami-rich version of pepper steak. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
  6. Garlic-Lover’s Pepper Steak: Double the garlic powder or use fresh minced garlic for an extra garlicky version. You can also add roasted garlic cloves to the slow cooker for a deeper, more robust garlic flavor.
  7. Vegetable-Packed Pepper Steak: Increase the vegetable content by adding sliced zucchini, carrots, or snap peas to the slow cooker. This variation not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds more color and texture to the dish.
  8. BBQ Pepper Steak: For a smoky flavor, replace the soy sauce with your favorite barbecue sauce and add a teaspoon of smoked paprika. This version adds a tangy and smoky twist to the traditional pepper steak.
  9. Italian-Style Pepper Steak: Use Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes instead of stewed tomatoes, and a splash of red wine. Serve over pasta instead of rice for an Italian-inspired pepper steak dish.
  10. Low-Sodium Pepper Steak: To reduce the sodium content, use a low-sodium soy sauce, low-sodium beef bouillon, and omit the added salt. This version is perfect for those watching their sodium intake without compromising on flavor.

These variations allow you to customize the Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs, ensuring there’s a version for everyone to enjoy!

FAQs:

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
    • Yes, you can use other cuts like flank steak, chuck roast, or round steak. Just ensure the meat is cut into thin strips, and be mindful that cooking times may vary depending on the cut.
  2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
    • Absolutely! You can cook the pepper steak on the stovetop in a large skillet or Dutch oven. After searing the beef, simmer on low heat for 1 to 2 hours until the meat is tender and the flavors meld together.
  3. Can I add other vegetables to the pepper steak?
    • Yes, feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or snap peas for added flavor and texture. Just add them at the same time as the bell peppers and onions.
  4. Is it okay to use frozen beef strips?
    • You can use frozen beef strips, but it’s best to thaw them completely before searing to ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption.
  5. How can I thicken the sauce?
    • If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker 30 minutes before the cooking time ends. Allow it to cook uncovered until the sauce thickens.
  6. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
    • Yes, simply use a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the beef bouillon is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
  7. What can I serve with pepper steak besides rice?
    • Pepper steak pairs well with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or even quinoa. A side of steamed or roasted vegetables also complements the dish nicely.
  8. How do I adjust the recipe for a spicier version?
    • To make the dish spicier, add sliced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the slow cooker. You can also use spicy soy sauce or add a bit of Sriracha.
  9. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply add everything to the slow cooker and start cooking. This makes it a great option for busy days.
  10. How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
    • Leftover pepper steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

These FAQs should help you master the Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot recipe, making it easy to customize, prepare, and enjoy!

This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot recipe is a wonderful set-it-and-forget-it meal, making it perfect for busy days. The result is a flavorful, tender dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether served over rice or with your favorite side, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table!
Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

PEPPER STEAK IN A CROCK POT


  • Author: Lusine Svetlana

Description

This Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal. The slow cooking process tenderizes the beef sirloin strips and infuses them with the rich flavors of garlic, soy sauce, and stewed tomatoes. With the added crunch of green bell peppers, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.


Ingredients

  • 2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 2-inch strips
  • ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cube beef bouillon
  • ¼ cup hot water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 2 large green bell peppers, roughly chopped
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes, with liquid
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Prepare the Beef:

  • Sprinkle the beef sirloin strips with garlic powder for added flavor.
  • Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sear the beef strips. Cook for about 5 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the seared beef strips to your slow cooker.

2. Make the Broth:

  • In a separate container, dissolve the beef bouillon cube in ¼ cup of hot water. Stir in the cornstarch until completely dissolved, creating a smooth mixture.
  • Pour this mixture over the beef strips in the slow cooker.

3. Add the Vegetables and Seasoning:

  • Stir in the chopped onion, green bell peppers, stewed tomatoes (including the liquid), soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

4. Cook the Pepper Steak:

  • Cover the slow cooker and cook on High for 3 to 4 hours, or on Low for 6 to 8 hours. The longer cooking time on Low will result in more tender beef.
  • Stir occasionally if possible, especially toward the end of the cooking time, to blend the flavors.

5. Serve:

  • Once the pepper steak is cooked, serve it hot over a bed of steamed rice or with mashed potatoes. The rich sauce from the crock pot pairs beautifully with a simple side dish.

 

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 6-8 hours on Low or 3-4 hours on High | Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 6 servings

Notes

Serving Tips:

  1. Pairing Suggestions: Serve the Pepper Steak over a bed of steamed white or brown rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. It also pairs well with mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting, hearty meal.
  2. Garnishing: For an added burst of freshness, garnish the dish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving. A sprinkle of sesame seeds can also add a nice touch.
  3. Side Dishes: Complement the meal with a side of steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the Pepper Steak.
  4. Portion Control: Serve in shallow bowls to help keep the meat and sauce together, making it easier to enjoy every bite. A serving size of about 1 cup of the Pepper Steak mixture is typical.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Pepper Steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating.
  2. Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the Pepper Steak. Place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  3. Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, covered, in 1-minute increments, stirring in between until warm.
  4. Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the beef as it can become tough. Heat just until warmed through to maintain the tender texture.

 

These tips will help you enjoy your Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot at its best, whether you’re serving it fresh or savoring leftovers!