Slow Cooker Pepper Steak: The Ultimate Pepper Steak Recipe
Introduction to Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Slow cooker recipes have become a staple in many households, especially for those who appreciate the ease of preparing meals ahead of time. One such dish that stands out is Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. This delightful recipe combines tender beef strips with vibrant bell peppers and a savory sauce, creating a mouthwatering meal that your family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this dish is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for cooks of all skill levels.
A Personal Story Behind My Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for hearty meals. One of my fondest memories is of my grandmother preparing her famous pepper steak. The aroma would fill the house, drawing everyone to the kitchen in anticipation. As I grew older, I wanted to recreate those memories and flavors. Using a slow cooker makes it easier than ever to enjoy this comforting dish, and I hope it brings warmth and nostalgia to your table just as it did for mine.
What Makes This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe Special?
What sets this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak apart is its simplicity and the depth of flavor that develops during the slow cooking process. The combination of beef strips, colorful bell peppers, and a savory sauce creates a meal that is both satisfying and visually appealing. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in tender beef that practically melts in your mouth. Plus, it’s a versatile dish; you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or serve it over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
The Full Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. beef strips (look for pre-cut strips or slice 1/2 inch strips from top sirloin or round steak)
- 1 green bell pepper, thickly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thickly sliced
- 1 white onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 beef bouillon cubes
- 3 Tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp. ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp. black pepper
- 2 tsp. brown sugar (honey or white sugar can be substituted)
- 1 Tbsp. cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a small microwavable bowl, combine water and beef bouillon cubes. Microwave for 30 seconds to dissolve the cubes. Use a spoon or whisk to break them up. (If no microwave, dissolve on the stove).
- To the bouillon mixture, add soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ginger, garlic powder, black pepper, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth. If you enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes here. Pour this sauce into the slow cooker.
- Place beef, bell peppers, and onions into the slow cooker on top of the sauce. Ensure that the beef is evenly distributed for optimal flavor absorption.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours. Cooking on low allows the flavors to develop and the beef to become incredibly tender. For best results, avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain temperature.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
This flavorful beef stir-fry is best served over a bed of rice or noodles, which perfectly absorbs the delicious sauce. For added nutrition and variety, consider customizing your dish with your favorite vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix an extra tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will give your sauce that perfect consistency for drizzling over your meal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While top sirloin and round steak are great options, feel free to experiment with other cuts. Just remember that tougher cuts may require longer cooking times to become tender.
Is it possible to make this dish spicy?
Yes! If you enjoy a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños into the slow cooker for an extra kick.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, and ensure that your bouillon cubes are gluten-free as well.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked pepper steak for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Equipment
- Slow Cooker A 6-quart slow cooker is ideal for this recipe.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef strips Look for pre-cut strips or slice 1/2 inch strips from top sirloin or round steak
- 1 each green bell pepper Thickly sliced
- 1 each red bell pepper Thickly sliced
- 1 each white onion Sliced
- 0.5 cup water
- 2 each beef bouillon cubes
- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 0.25 tsp ground ginger
- 0.25 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp brown sugar Honey or white sugar can be substituted
- 1 Tbsp cornstarch
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes Optional
Instructions
- In a small microwavable bowl, combine water and beef bouillon cubes. Microwave for 30 seconds to dissolve the cubes. Use a spoon or whisk to break them up. (If no microwave, dissolve on the stove).
- To the bouillon mixture, add soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ginger, garlic powder, black pepper, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth. If you enjoy a little heat, add red pepper flakes here. Pour this sauce into the slow cooker.
- Place beef, bell peppers, and onions into the slow cooker on top of the sauce. Ensure that the beef is evenly distributed for optimal flavor absorption.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours. Cooking on low allows the flavors to develop and the beef to become incredibly tender. For best results, avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain temperature.