Print

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Print Recipe

This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe is an effortless, flavorful dinner that combines tender beef strips with colorful bell peppers slow-cooked in a savory soy-based sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers melt-in-your-mouth beef and a rich, balanced sauce with minimal prep time. Enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal made easily at home.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef and Vegetables

  • 1.5 lbs flank or sirloin steak, sliced thinly against the grain
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 medium onion, cut into bite-sized pieces

Sauce

  • 1/3 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (gluten-free if needed)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons brown sugar or honey
  • 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper

Thickening Agent

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons cold water

Optional Variations and Add-Ins

  • Red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat
  • Mushrooms, snap peas, or zucchini for added vegetables

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beef and Vegetables: Slice your beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Cut the bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and easy eating.
  2. Mix the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, grated ginger, and brown sugar or honey until well combined. This flavorful sauce is the heart of the recipe.
  3. Combine in the Slow Cooker: Place the beef strips at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the bell peppers and onions evenly on top. Pour the sauce over all ingredients to coat thoroughly.
  4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow cooking process tenderizes the beef and melds the flavors beautifully.
  5. Thicken the Sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix the cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker. This thickens the sauce to a silky, glossy finish.

Notes

  • Pre-searing the beef before slow cooking locks in juices and adds extra flavor.
  • Do not overcrowd the slow cooker to keep peppers crisp instead of soggy.
  • Use fresh garlic and ginger rather than powders for deeper flavor.
  • Add the cornstarch slurry gradually to reach your desired sauce thickness.
  • Let the dish rest 10-15 minutes after cooking for flavors to develop further.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, pepper steak, beef recipe, easy dinner, weeknight meal, gluten free, comfort food

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/slow-cooker-pepper-steak/