Description

This Slow Cooker Pepper Steak recipe features tender beef strips, colorful bell peppers, and a savory sauce cooked low and slow for a flavorful, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Simple to prepare and family-friendly, it can be served over rice, noodles, or vegetables, making it a versatile and satisfying dinner option.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

1 lb flank steak or sirloin, cut into thin strips
1 red bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 green bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into thin strips
1 medium onion, sliced into thin strips
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch piece fresh ginger, minced

Sauce Ingredients

1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1/2 cup beef broth (gluten-free if needed)
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Thickening Agent

1 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp cold water (to make slurry)

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients: Cut the beef into thin, bite-sized strips against the grain for maximum tenderness. Slice the bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic and ginger finely to release their aromatic flavors.
Combine the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, minced garlic, minced ginger, brown sugar, and freshly cracked black pepper. This sauce will infuse the beef and vegetables with rich flavor during cooking.
Layer into the slow cooker: Place the sliced bell peppers and onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the beef strips on top. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over all the ingredients to ensure every bite is flavorful.
Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 5 to 6 hours or on high for about 3 hours. The beef will become tender, and the peppers will soften while retaining vibrant color.
Thicken the sauce: About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker, cover, and continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

Notes

Cut beef properly: Always slice against the grain to keep the strips tender and easy to chew.
Do not overcook: Monitor slow cooker times carefully to avoid beef turning tough or vegetables becoming mushy.
Add cornstarch last: Thickening the sauce at the end prevents it from becoming too gummy during slow cooking.
Use fresh black pepper: Grinding fresh pepper enhances the essential peppery aroma of the dish.
Rest before serving: Let the dish sit uncovered for 10 minutes after cooking to allow flavors to settle.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5 to 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American/Asian Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 15 g
Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 32 g
Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: pepper steak, slow cooker, easy dinner, beef recipe, weeknight meal, gluten free, low effort, family friendly