Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Tender strips of beef simmered low and slow with colorful bell peppers, onions, and a rich, savory sauce—this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is the kind of comforting dinner that makes the whole house smell amazing. It’s easy to prep, packed with flavor, and perfect served over rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice.

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 lb beef sirloin or chuck steak, cut into thin strips
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1½ cups beef broth
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 3 tablespoons cold water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil, optional

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the beef: Slice the steak thinly against the grain. Pat it dry with paper towels and season lightly with black pepper.
2. Optional browning: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the beef in batches for 1–2 minutes per side. This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped when you’re short on time.
3. Layer the slow cooker: Place the sliced onions and bell peppers in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the beef and minced garlic on top.
4. Make the sauce: Whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
5. Cook: Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the beef is tender.
6. Thicken the sauce: About 20–30 minutes before serving, whisk cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Stir it into the slow cooker.
7. Finish: Cover and continue cooking on HIGH for about 15–20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens into a glossy gravy. Stir in sesame oil if desired.
8. Serve: Spoon the tender beef, peppers, onions, and sauce over cooked rice, mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or cauliflower rice.

💡 Pro Tips

• Slice the beef against the grain for a more tender bite.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet if browning the beef.
• For softer peppers, add them at the beginning. For firmer, brighter peppers, add them during the final 1–2 hours.
• Use low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness.
• Want extra heat? Add red pepper flakes or a little hot sauce.
• Let the finished dish rest for 5 minutes before serving so the sauce can settle and thicken.

❓ Quick Q&A

Can I use chuck roast instead of steak?
Yes. Thinly sliced chuck roast works well and becomes very tender during slow cooking.

Can I make this without browning the beef?
Absolutely. Browning adds extra depth, but the slow cooker will still produce a flavorful meal.

What should I serve with pepper steak?
Rice is classic, but mashed potatoes, noodles, cauliflower rice, or steamed vegetables are also delicious.

Can I store leftovers?
Yes. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

🍽️ Serving Idea

Serve the pepper steak over fluffy white or brown rice and spoon plenty of the rich gravy over the top. Add steamed broccoli or green beans on the side for a complete family dinner.

❤️ Why You’ll Love It

✔️ Tender, flavorful beef
✔️ Colorful peppers and onions
✔️ Rich homemade gravy
✔️ Minimal hands-on prep
✔️ Perfect make-ahead comfort food
✔️ Great for busy weeknights