🧡 Introduction
First things first—thank you for being here. If you’re looking for a comforting, hands-off dinner that fills your home with mouthwatering aroma and your plate with hearty satisfaction, you’ve just found a keeper.
This Crock Pot Pepper Steak recipe is the kind of no-fuss, full-flavor dish that makes you feel like a dinnertime hero without ever breaking a sweat. Tender beef, sweet bell peppers, and a savory tomato-based sauce all come together in the slow cooker—ready to greet you after a long day.
Whether you serve it over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, this recipe will earn a regular spot in your weekly rotation. Let’s get into it!
🍲 What Is Crock Pot Pepper Steak?
Pepper steak is a Chinese-American comfort food classic that usually requires a quick stovetop stir-fry. This slow cooker twist takes the same flavors—tender beef, sweet bell peppers, umami-packed sauce—and makes it even easier. The low-and-slow cook time allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the peppers stay vibrant and flavorful.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Dump-and-go simplicity: Perfect for busy weeknights
- Tender, juicy beef: The crock pot does all the magic
- Great for meal prep: Tastes even better the next day
- Family-friendly: Kid-approved flavors with a touch of sweetness and warmth
- Customizable: Add heat, change veggies, or swap the meat
🛒 Ingredients
For a batch that serves 4–6:
- 16 oz beef stew meat (or sliced sirloin for leaner texture)
- 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), sliced into strips
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 can (14–15 oz) beef broth
- 1 can (14–15 oz) stewed tomatoes
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
Optional add-ins: sliced onions, crushed red pepper flakes, or a splash of soy sauce for extra depth
🍳 Tools You’ll Need
- Slow cooker (4-6 quart)
- Skillet (for optional browning)
- Cutting board & knife
- Measuring spoons & cups
- Slotted spoon or ladle
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Meat (Optional but Recommended)
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear beef pieces just until browned on the outside—this adds great flavor and texture.
- Transfer to the crock pot.
⏱ Short on time? Skip the browning and toss it all in raw—the slow cooker will still do its magic.
2. Add the Veggies & Sauce
- Layer in sliced bell peppers, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and seasoned salt.
- Pour in the stewed tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth.
- Stir gently to combine.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on:
- LOW for 6–7 hours
- or HIGH for 3–4 hours
4. Thicken the Sauce
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix flour with a few tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry.
- Stir into the crock pot and let cook uncovered to thicken slightly.
🍚 What to Serve with Crock Pot Pepper Steak
- White or jasmine rice (the classic choice)
- Egg noodles or pasta for a cozy, saucy bowl
- Mashed potatoes for an ultra-comforting twist
- Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option
- Steamed green beans, roasted broccoli, or a crisp cucumber salad on the side
🔄 Additions & Substitutions
| Ingredient | Swap or Add |
|---|---|
| Beef stew meat | Sliced flank steak, sirloin, or even chicken thighs |
| Bell peppers | Add sliced onions or mushrooms |
| Worcestershire | Sub with soy sauce or coconut aminos |
| Stewed tomatoes | Diced tomatoes + a pinch of sugar |
| Flour | Use cornstarch for gluten-free thickening |
🧊 Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze in meal-size portions for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth
🥡 Make it a freezer meal: Assemble everything (except flour) in a freezer bag. Thaw overnight and dump into the slow cooker when ready!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen peppers?
Yes! Just add them directly to the slow cooker—no need to thaw.
Can I cook this without flour?
Absolutely. The sauce will be thinner but still flavorful. For a low-carb or gluten-free option, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead.
Is it spicy?
Not at all! Want heat? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or diced jalapeño.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, as long as your slow cooker is big enough. Cook time may need a slight increase.
🧡 Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Pepper Steak is one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing dinners that feels special but takes almost no effort. It’s warm, flavorful, and exactly the kind of meal that makes coming home feel like a hug.
Throw it together in the morning, and by evening, you’ve got tender beef, perfectly cooked peppers, and a rich, savory sauce just waiting to be spooned over rice or noodles.
So go ahead—make a big batch. Your future self will thank you.
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