If you’re in need of a fuss-free, flavorful dinner that satisfies the whole family, look no further than this Crockpot Pepper Steak and Rice Recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights, especially during the school year when schedules are packed, this recipe leverages your crockpot to do most of the work, leaving you free to tackle your to-do list.
Why This Crockpot Pepper Steak Stands Out
This Chinese-inspired pepper steak is a hit due to its simplicity and delicious outcome. It combines tender strips of beef with bell peppers and onions in a savory sauce, served over rice. It’s become a beloved meal in many households and has earned a spot in the family favorite rotation.
Ingredients for Crockpot Pepper Steak
- Beef strips: Use thinly sliced round steaks, cut into strips for quick cooking.
- Green bell pepper: Sliced thick to retain texture.
- Red bell pepper: Also sliced thick for the perfect bite.
- Onion: Thickly sliced to complement the peppers.
- Beef broth: Forms the base of the flavorful cooking liquid.
- Soy sauce: Adds a deep umami flavor.
- Ground ginger: Gives a warm, spicy note.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the meaty flavors.
- Black pepper: For a bit of heat.
- Brown sugar: Balances the savory elements with sweetness.
- Cornstarch and cold water: Thicken the sauce to coat the steak and vegetables beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak Every Time
- Even Slicing: Cut the steak and vegetables in uniform sizes to promote even cooking.
- Avoid Over-Stirring: Let the ingredients cook undisturbed in the crockpot to maintain their integrity and avoid mushiness.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking on low is ideal for making the steak tender. If short on time, you can cook on high for a shorter period, though low and slow yields the best texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Crockpot Pepper Steak is excellent when you’re looking for a meal that requires minimal active cooking time. It’s especially handy for those evenings filled with activities like sports or meetings. Try pairing it with other easy dishes like Instant Pot Orange Chicken for a varied weekly menu that keeps dinner exciting and stress-free.
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot Recipe:
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious home-cooked meal waiting for you at the end of the day.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef steak, cut into thin strips
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (one red, one green)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Place the beef strips, sliced bell peppers, sliced onion, and minced garlic in the crock pot.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir together until well mixed.
- Pour this mixture over the ingredients in the crock pot, making sure everything is evenly coated.
- Cook:
- Set the crock pot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the beef to become exceptionally tender.
- Thicken the Sauce:
- About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, mix the cornstarch with water in a small bowl until smooth.
- Stir this slurry into the crock pot to thicken the sauce. Continue cooking for the remaining time to allow the sauce to cook through and lose any raw cornstarch flavor.
- Season:
- Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust the seasoning to your preference, keeping in mind the saltiness from the soy sauce.
- Serve:
- Serve the pepper steak hot over cooked rice or noodles. This not only makes for a hearty meal but also soaks up the delicious sauce.
