Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Introduction
Pepper steak made in a crock pot is a delightful comfort food that brings the vibrant flavors of tender beef and colorful bell peppers to your dinner table with minimal effort. Whether you’re coming home from a busy day at work or hosting family for the weekend, this dish is easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Imagine walking into your home, being greeted by the enticing aroma of perfectly cooked beef mingling with soy sauce and ginger—nothing short of mouthwatering!
Why make this recipe
When it comes to weeknight dinners, this recipe stands out for many reasons. First and foremost, preparing pepper steak in a crock pot means you’ll have a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a budget-friendly dish, utilizing affordable cuts of beef like sirloin or flank steak, alongside fresh vegetables that provide excellent nutrition.
Not to mention, this pepper steak is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a perfect choice for family dinners. Ideal for busy weeknights or even casual gatherings, this recipe gives you a taste of comfort food without any of the hassle.
"This pepper steak recipe quickly became a family favorite. The flavors are incredible, and it pairs perfectly with rice, making for the ultimate cozy meal!" – Satisfied Home Cook
How to make Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Preparing this dish is as simple as it gets. You start by layering juicy slices of beef with vibrant bell peppers and onions right in your crock pot. Then, you’ll whisk together a flavorful sauce that consists of soy sauce, beef broth, and a few other key ingredients to bring everything together. Simply pour that mixture over your ingredients, cover, and let the crock pot do its magic.
This recipe not only streamlines the cooking process but also ensures that the beef turns out tender and flavorful.
Ingredients
To create this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound beef steak (sirloin or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Rice, for serving (white or brown rice works great!)
Feel free to substitute the veggies based on what you have on hand. Broccoli or snap peas could also add a unique twist!
Directions
Cooking this delicious pepper steak is straightforward, allowing you to sit back and look forward to a comforting meal. Follow these steps:
- In your crock pot, combine the sliced beef, bell peppers, and onions.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, cornstarch, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
- Serve hot over fluffy rice and enjoy the hearty flavors.
How to serve Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
A steaming bowl of this pepper steak is fantastic on its own, but why stop there? You can take it up a notch by garnishing it with fresh cilantro or green onions. Pair it with a fresh side salad or steamed broccoli for added nutrition. For an Asian-inspired twist, serve it with crispy spring rolls or egg rolls to elevate your meal experience.
How to store
To keep your delicious pepper steak fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, ensure the beef is heated through but avoid overcooking it to maintain tenderness. You can also freeze leftovers for up to three months. When ready to use, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to make
Here are a few helpful tips that can help you perfect this dish:
- For extra flavor, marinate the beef in soy sauce for a couple of hours before cooking.
- To thicken the sauce even more, you can add an extra tablespoon of cornstarch towards the end of cooking if you prefer a thicker consistency.
- Don’t hesitate to toss in other vegetables like mushrooms or snap peas for an added crunch and nutrition boost!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not add a personal twist? Here are some great variations:
- Spice it up by adding a splash of sriracha or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Substitute the beef with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
- Try using different types of peppers such as jalapeños or poblanos for a unique flavor profile.
FAQs
How long does it take to prep this dish?
Prep time is quick—around 15 minutes to slice your ingredients and whisk together the sauce.
Can I use frozen beef steak?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but ensure it’s fully thawed before slicing to achieve even cooking.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover pepper steak can be used in stir-fries, tacos, or served over a bed of greens for a refreshing salad.
Is it safe to freeze after cooking?
Absolutely! Just cool down the dish to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container for freezing.
This pepper steak in a crock pot is not just a dish; it’s a testament to delicious food that easily fits into our busy lives. With just a little bit of preparation, you can bring comfort food to your dinner table any night of the week. Enjoy!
Pepper Steak in a Crock Pot
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound beef steak (sirloin or flank steak), sliced into thin strips
- 2 count bell peppers (any color), sliced Feel free to substitute with other vegetables
- 1 count onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch For thickening the sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- to taste salt and pepper
- for serving Rice (white or brown)
Instructions
Preparation
- In your crock pot, combine the sliced beef, bell peppers, and onions.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, cornstarch, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables in the crock pot, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
- Serve hot over fluffy rice and enjoy the hearty flavors.
