If you have ever craved a meal that combines tender strips of beef with vibrant bell peppers, all simmered to perfection with a rich, flavorful sauce, then you are going to love this Crockpot Pepper Steak. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the steak to soak up a wonderful mix of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors while the peppers stay just the right amount of tender. Trust me, once you try this Crockpot Pepper Steak, it will quickly become a favorite go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Crockpot Pepper Steak Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role: the sirloin steak brings hearty substance, the garlic and onions build a savory foundation, and the bell peppers add a splash of color and freshness. The blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire, and diced tomatoes creates a delicious, well-balanced sauce that ties everything together.

2 lbs. Sirloin steak cut into strips: Choose a lean cut like sirloin for tender, juicy meat that cooks beautifully in the slow cooker.
2 tsp. Minced garlic: Adds a fragrant and sharp base flavor essential to the savory profile.
2 Tbsp. Olive oil: Used to brown the steak and develop a rich taste before slow cooking.
⅔ C. Hot water: Helps dissolve the bouillon cube and forms the flavorful cooking liquid.
1 Beef bouillon cube: Adds intense beefy depth to the sauce.
1 Tbsp. Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce, giving it the perfect silky consistency.
1 C. Chopped onion: Provides sweetness and texture throughout the dish.
3 Tbsp. Soy sauce: Contributes saltiness and umami richness.
1 tsp. Brown sugar: Balances savory flavors with a gentle hint of sweetness.
1 Can Diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and helps build a robust sauce.
2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce: Enhances complexity with a bit of tang and depth.
Pepper to taste: For the perfect kick of spice.
2 Bell peppers sliced: Bring crunch, color, and a mild sweetness to brighten the dish.

How to Make Crockpot Pepper Steak

Step 1: Brown the Steak

Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the sliced sirloin steak and sauté just until browned on the outside. This step locks in the meat’s juices and adds a delicious caramelized flavor that makes the final dish taste so much richer.

Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Liquid

While the steak is browning, dissolve the beef bouillon cube in ⅔ cup of hot water. Then whisk the cornstarch into this mixture to create a thickening base. Pour this flavorful liquid into your crockpot, setting the stage for an irresistible sauce that will coat every bite of your Pepper Steak.

Step 3: Add the Sauces and Tomatoes

Next, add the soy sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce into the crockpot. Don’t forget the diced tomatoes and a sprinkle of pepper. These ingredients combine to create a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy sauce that complements the savory beef beautifully.

Step 4: Combine Onions and Beef

Toss in the chopped onions along with the browned steak. Give everything a good stir to make sure the flavors meld together. This mix will cook slowly in the crockpot, allowing the onions to soften and infuse their sweetness into the sauce for that perfect balance of flavors.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Mixture

Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or low for 6 to 7 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the steak wonderfully, allowing it to soak up the complex sauce flavors, making every bite luscious and packed with comfort.

Step 6: Add the Bell Peppers

About an hour before you’re ready to eat, stir in the sliced bell peppers. Cooking them just this long ensures they remain tender with a little crispness, adding that delightful freshness along with their vibrant colors to the dish.

How to Serve Crockpot Pepper Steak

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top just before serving for a burst of color and a fresh, herbal note that perfectly brightens the dish.

Side Dishes

This Crockpot Pepper Steak pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or buttery mashed potatoes, both of which soak up the savory sauce like a dream. For something lighter, a crisp green salad or sautéed green beans are excellent choices to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the pepper steak over warm flour tortillas for an easy pepper steak wrap, or pile it atop crusty bread for an open-faced sandwich that’s hearty and satisfying. Another great idea is to spoon it over roasted cauliflower rice for a low-carb option packed with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your Crockpot Pepper Steak leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 4 days and tastes just as delicious when reheated.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave room for expansion and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth helps maintain the sauce’s luscious texture. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring often to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for Crockpot Pepper Steak?

Absolutely! While sirloin is ideal for its tenderness and flavor, you can use other cuts like flank steak or even chuck roast, but cooking times may vary to achieve the best tenderness.

How long should I cook the Crockpot Pepper Steak on low?

Cooking it on low typically takes 6 to 7 hours, which allows the flavors to deepen and the beef to become wonderfully tender. It’s perfect for a set-it-and-forget-it meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos, and double-check that your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free, too. Everything else should already be safe.

Are bell peppers necessary in this recipe?

Bell peppers add a lovely crunch, color, and sweetness that balance the savory sauce, but if you don’t have any on hand, you can omit them or substitute with other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.

Can I add more vegetables to Crockpot Pepper Steak?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment with added veggies like snap peas, carrots, or baby corn. Add them towards the end of cooking to keep their texture intact.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about a dish like Crockpot Pepper Steak that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and warms you from the inside out. It’s a straightforward recipe that never fails to impress with its rich flavors and tender beef. Whether you’re cooking for your family or inviting friends over, this dish is a delicious way to bring everyone together around the table. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!