Imagine coming home to a rich, flavorful meal that’s been slowly simmering to perfection all day. With this Crockpot Pepper Steak and Rice recipe, you get the convenience of a set-it-and-forget-it dinner that’s as comforting as it is delicious. The tender beef strips, vibrant bell peppers, and savory sauce create a meal that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen, yet the slow cooker does all the hard work for you.
This dish is a lifesaver on busy weeknights, especially when your schedule is packed with errands, work, or family activities. There’s no need to stand over the stove—just toss in the ingredients, let them cook low and slow, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. Whether you’re craving a hearty, satisfying dinner or planning ahead for meal prep, this easy Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe delivers on flavor and convenience.
If you love takeout-style meals but want a homemade alternative, this dish is perfect. It offers all the classic flavors of Chinese-inspired pepper steak without the need for a wok or frying pan. The result? A tender, juicy beef dish with rich umami flavors that pair beautifully with fluffy rice or noodles.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking – The slow cooker does the work, making this recipe ideal for busy schedules.
- Tender, Flavorful Beef – Cooking low and slow ensures that every bite is juicy and packed with flavor.
- Better Than Takeout – Enjoy restaurant-quality pepper steak made easily at home.
Ingredients Overview
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of flavors:
- Beef Strips – Thinly sliced steak cooks to tender perfection in the slow cooker.
- Bell Peppers – A mix of red and green peppers adds color and a sweet, crisp contrast to the beef.
- Onion – Enhances the depth of flavor and pairs well with the other ingredients.
- Beef Broth – Forms the base of the sauce, adding a rich, savory taste.
- Soy Sauce & Worcestershire Sauce – Essential for that deep, umami flavor.
- Garlic & Ground Ginger – Infuses warmth and a slight kick to the sauce.
- Brown Sugar – Balances the saltiness and adds a hint of sweetness.
- Cornstarch Slurry – Thickens the sauce to coat the beef and veggies perfectly.
How to Make Crockpot Pepper Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before you begin cooking, gather all your ingredients and prepare them properly. Slice the beef steak into thin strips, ensuring uniformity for even cooking. Cut the bell peppers and onion into thick slices so they retain some texture after slow cooking. Mince the garlic to distribute its robust flavor throughout the dish.
Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot
Once your ingredients are prepped, layer them in the slow cooker for even cooking. Add the sliced beef first, followed by the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. In a separate bowl, mix the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to create a flavorful base. Pour this sauce over the ingredients in the crockpot, ensuring everything is evenly coated for maximum taste.
Step 3: Cook the Pepper Steak
Set your crockpot to cook based on your available time and preference. If cooking on low, let it simmer for 6-8 hours to develop deep flavors and achieve the most tender beef. If you’re short on time, cooking on high for 3-4 hours still yields great results. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld beautifully, creating a rich and savory dish.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
About 30 minutes before serving, it’s time to thicken the sauce for a glossy, restaurant-style finish. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, distributing it evenly. Allow the sauce to cook further, letting it thicken and coat the beef and vegetables perfectly without any raw floury taste.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding extra salt or pepper based on preference. Serve the pepper steak hot over a bed of cooked rice or noodles for a complete meal. The flavorful sauce soaks into the grains, enhancing every bite. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions for an added touch of freshness.
Tips for the Best Pepper Steak
- Uniform Slices – Cut the beef and veggies evenly for consistent cooking.
- Low and Slow – Cooking on low heat yields the most tender results.
- Let It Sit – After thickening the sauce, let the dish rest for a few minutes to absorb all the flavors.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick – Add crushed red pepper flakes or Sriracha for heat.
- Teriyaki Twist – Swap Worcestershire sauce for teriyaki sauce for a sweet-savory flavor.
- Extra Veggies – Include mushrooms, carrots, or snap peas for added texture and nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Flank steak, sirloin, or chuck steak work well in this recipe.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat as needed.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
4. What can I serve with pepper steak?
Steamed white rice, fried rice, or lo mein noodles are great options.
5. Can I make this without cornstarch?
Yes! You can use arrowroot powder or simply let the sauce simmer longer to reduce naturally.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Conclusion
Crockpot Pepper Steak is a lifesaver for busy families who want a home-cooked meal without the hassle. It’s packed with flavor, requires minimal effort, and is incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just need a fuss-free dinner, this slow cooker recipe is a must-try.
Give this recipe a try and let me know how you like it! Don’t forget to follow Ava Foodie on Pinterest for more delicious recipes and meal ideas.
