Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot is a simple and comforting meal that’s full of tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful sauce that’s just right. It’s one of those dishes where the ingredients come together gently over hours, making the meat melt in your mouth and the peppers soft but still with a little bite. The slow cooker does all the work, which makes it perfect for busy days when you want something hearty without standing over the stove.
I love making this recipe because it feels like a warm hug after a long day. The smell fills the house, and I always find myself sneaking little tastes while it cooks. It’s also nice that you only need a few fresh ingredients to get it started—plus some pantry staples like soy sauce and garlic. I usually throw everything into the crock pot in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat dinner. It doesn’t get easier than that!
My favorite way to enjoy this pepper steak is over a big bowl of steamed rice, letting the sauce soak in perfectly. Sometimes I add a simple green salad on the side to balance everything out. It’s a dish that always feels like home to me, and I find it’s great for sharing with family or friends because it’s filling and tasty without any fuss. If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s hands-off but still full of flavor, this crock pot pepper steak is definitely worth trying.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flank steak or sirloin: These cuts are great because they get tender in the slow cooker. If you want a more budget-friendly option, try chuck steak, but slice it thinly. Avoid tougher cuts unless thinly sliced.
Bell peppers: Red, green, and yellow add color and flavor. You can mix or match based on what you have. If you want a milder taste, use just red and yellow peppers.
Soy sauce & Worcestershire sauce: These build the savory base of the sauce. For a gluten-free alternative, swap soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.
Brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory flavors. You can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute but add less to avoid overpowering sweetness.
Cornstarch slurry: This thickens the sauce near the end. If you don’t have cornstarch, arrowroot powder or flour mixed with water works too.
How Do I Make Sure the Vegetables Stay Tender but Not Mushy?
Slow cookers can soften veggies a lot. To keep bell peppers and onions just right:
- Cut peppers and onions into larger chunks so they hold their shape while cooking.
- Place veggies at the bottom of the crock pot; the heat is gentler, which helps prevent overcooking.
- Add the cornstarch slurry near the end to thicken the sauce without cooking veggies longer, keeping their texture.
- If you prefer even crisper peppers, you can add them halfway through cooking instead of at the start.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock pot or slow cooker – It gently cooks the beef and peppers all day, making everything tender without needing your attention.
- Sharp knife – Helps you slice the steak and chop peppers and onions quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – Gives you a safe, sturdy surface to prepare all your ingredients without making a mess.
- Mixing bowl – Perfect for whisking together the sauce ingredients easily before pouring into the crock pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Make sure you add the right amounts of soy sauce, spices, and other ingredients for balanced flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap flank steak for thinly sliced chicken breast for a lighter version that still soaks up the sauce well.
- Add sliced mushrooms or snap peas for more texture and a fresh, earthy bite.
- Use different colored bell peppers or add some jalapeño slices if you like a little heat.
- Stir in a teaspoon of grated fresh ginger with the garlic to give the dish a bright, zesty lift.
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium onion, cut into chunks
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Sauce & Seasonings:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Garnish and Other:
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking oil (for searing, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 4-6 hours of slow cooking. The long cooking time makes the steak nice and tender and the vegetables soft but still tasty. Adding the thickener at the end takes just a few minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sear the Beef (Optional):
If you have time, heat a skillet with a bit of cooking oil over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the beef strips for 1 to 2 minutes until they get a light brown color. This adds extra flavor but you can skip this step to save time and add the beef directly to the crock pot.
2. Layer the Vegetables and Beef:
Place the bell peppers, onion chunks, and minced garlic into the bottom of your crock pot. Spread the seared or raw beef strips on top of the veggies.
3. Mix and Pour the Sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and ground black pepper. Pour this evenly over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot.
4. Cook Slowly:
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. The beef should be tender and the vegetables cooked but still have some bite to them.
5. Thicken the Sauce:
About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch and water together to form a slurry. Stir this into the crock pot to thicken the sauce. Let it cook for the remaining 30 minutes.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooking is done, sprinkle chopped green onions and optional toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve your comforting Pepper Steak hot over steamed rice or your favorite side dish. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Beef for This Recipe?
It’s best to use thawed beef for even cooking. Thaw frozen steak in the refrigerator overnight before slicing and adding it to the crock pot.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the ingredients in the crock pot insert the night before. Store it in the fridge and cook it the next day for a convenient meal.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to preserve flavor and texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! Add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the vegetables for a little heat that complements the flavors.
