One of my new favorite recipes is crockpot pepper steak! This is so easy, a true dump and go dinner. Today we’re headed to the pool so I’ve already got all ingredients prepped and ready to cook while we’re gone. It’s great served over rice or noodles or just as is for a lower carb option.
Crockpot Pepper Steak is a dump and go hands-off meal that is super flavorful, simple, and comforting. This Chinese inspired pepper steak recipe is a favorite when served over rice, noodles and more!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef sirloin strips or sirloin steak, cut into slices
- 3 large colorful bell peppers, sliced thick
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 cup beef broth
- 3 beef bouillon cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
Sauce:
- 3/4 cup hot beef broth
- 3 beef bouillon cubes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions:
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a mixing glass, combine hot beef broth, beef bouillon cubes, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, honey, ground ginger, black pepper, salt, and cornstarch. Stir well, ensuring the bouillon cubes are crushed.
- Layer the Crockpot:
- Place beef strips in the slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef. Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic on top of the beef.
- Cook in the Crockpot:
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
- Stir and Serve:
- When finished cooking, stir the contents well to ensure the beef and vegetables are evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Crockpot Pepper Steak to a serving dish. Serve over rice, noodles, or as a side with mashed or baked potatoes.
- Garnish (Optional):
- Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Enjoy:
- This Crockpot Pepper Steak is now ready to be enjoyed! The tender beef and flavorful sauce make it a delightful and easy-to-make meal.
Tips:
- For a thicker sauce, you can adjust the amount of cornstarch in the sauce according to your preference.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for additional color and nutrition.
- Adjust the level of spice by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Enjoy your hands-off, flavorful Crockpot Pepper Steak!
Popular Questions and Answers:
Here are some potential questions and answers that might arise regarding the for the Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe:
- Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
- A: Yes, you can use flank steak, round steak, or any other tender cut of beef that suits your preference.
- Q: Can I make this recipe with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option?
- A: Absolutely! You can substitute beef with sliced chicken or tofu for a different protein option. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Q: How do I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
- A: To increase the spice level, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Adjust to taste.
- Q: Can I prepare the sauce in advance and store it?
- A: Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it. Shake or stir well before pouring it over the beef in the slow cooker.
- Q: What is a good side dish to serve with Crockpot Pepper Steak?
- A: It pairs well with rice, noodles, or even mashed or baked potatoes. A side of steamed broccoli or a fresh salad complements the meal.
- Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
- A: Yes, you can freeze leftover Crockpot Pepper Steak in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
- Q: Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
- A: Certainly! Adjust the quantities accordingly, but keep in mind that the cooking time may need to be extended for larger batches.
- Q: What is the difference between soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce?
- A: Soy sauce adds a salty umami flavor, while Worcestershire sauce contributes a complex, savory, and slightly tangy taste. Both work together to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Q: Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
- A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simmer the beef and vegetables in the sauce in a covered skillet over low heat until the beef is tender.
- Q: How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?
- A: Ensure you’re using a tender cut of beef, and cook it on low heat in the slow cooker for the recommended time. Overcooking can lead to toughness.
- Q: What type of bell peppers work best in this recipe?
- A: Any color of bell peppers works well. Using a mix of colorful peppers adds visual appeal to the dish.
- Q: Can I use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option?
- A: Yes, you can use low-sodium soy sauce to control the sodium content of the dish without sacrificing flavor.
Feel free to customize these FAQs based on your audience and any specific details of your Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe!
Here are some helpful tips to make your Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe even more delightful:
- Marinate the Beef:
- Tip: Consider marinating the beef strips in the sauce for an hour or two before adding them to the slow cooker. This can enhance the flavor and tenderness.
- Use Colorful Bell Peppers:
- Tip: Opt for a mix of colorful bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange) to add vibrancy and a variety of flavors to the dish.
- Preheat the Slow Cooker:
- Tip: Preheat the slow cooker before adding the ingredients. This helps in a more even and efficient cooking process.
- Slice Ingredients Uniformly:
- Tip: Ensure that the beef strips, bell peppers, and onions are sliced uniformly. This ensures even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Adjust Honey to Taste:
- Tip: Taste the sauce before adding honey and adjust the sweetness to your liking. Some prefer a slightly sweeter sauce, while others may prefer it less sweet.
- Fresh Garlic Preference:
- Tip: Use freshly minced garlic for a more robust flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for garlic intensity.
- Add Fresh Herbs:
- Tip: Garnish with fresh herbs such as chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Stir Midway Through Cooking:
- Tip: If possible, stir the ingredients midway through the cooking time to ensure even distribution of flavors.
- Customize Spice Level:
- Tip: Tailor the spice level by adjusting the amount of black pepper, or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Serve Over Fluffy Rice or Noodles:
- Tip: Serve the Crockpot Pepper Steak over fluffy rice or noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. Brown rice or whole-grain noodles can add a nutty dimension.
- Use Low-Sodium Broth and Soy Sauce:
- Tip: If you’re watching sodium intake, opt for low-sodium beef broth and soy sauce. This allows better control over the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Experiment with Veggies:
- Tip: Add other vegetables like snap peas, broccoli, or baby corn for additional texture and nutrition.
- Top with Sesame Seeds:
- Tip: For added texture and a hint of nuttiness, sprinkle sesame seeds over the finished dish before serving.
- Cook Until Just Tender:
- Tip: Avoid overcooking the bell peppers and onions. They should be cooked until just tender, maintaining a bit of crispness for optimal texture.
- Let It Rest Before Serving:
- Tip: Allow the Crockpot Pepper Steak to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, and the beef to absorb more of the delicious sauce.
Feel free to tailor these tips to your preferences and enjoy your delightful Crockpot Pepper Steak!
Here are some secrets to achieving the perfect Crockpot Pepper Steak:
- Quality Beef:
- Secret: Invest in high-quality beef, such as sirloin, for a tender and flavorful result. Trim excess fat to avoid greasiness.
- Sear the Beef:
- Secret: For an extra layer of flavor, consider searing the beef strips in a hot skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. This helps lock in juices and enhances the taste.
- Balanced Sauce:
- Secret: Achieve a balanced sauce by adjusting the soy sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce quantities to suit your taste preferences. Aim for a harmonious blend of sweet, salty, and savory.
- Homemade Bouillon:
- Secret: Make your beef bouillon by dissolving beef bouillon cubes in hot water. This provides a richer and more authentic flavor compared to store-bought broth.
- Fresh Garlic and Ginger:
- Secret: Use fresh garlic and ginger for a more intense and authentic flavor. Grate or finely mince them for better distribution throughout the dish.
- Low and Slow Cooking:
- Secret: Cook on the low setting for a longer duration to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender. This results in a more succulent and flavorful dish.
- Crushed Bouillon Cubes:
- Secret: Ensure the bouillon cubes are thoroughly crushed in the sauce to avoid any clumps. This ensures an even distribution of flavor.
- Customize Spice Level:
- Secret: Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of black pepper. For those who enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Prep and Set Overnight:
- Secret: Prepare the ingredients and set them in the crockpot the night before. This allows the flavors to marinate overnight for a richer taste.
- Garnish with Green Onions:
- Secret: Garnish the finished dish with sliced green onions for a burst of freshness and a subtle onion flavor.
- Thicken Sauce if Needed:
- Secret: If the sauce is too thin, create a slurry by mixing a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce. Allow it to simmer until thickened.
- Adjust Seasoning Before Serving:
- Secret: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A little extra soy sauce or a touch of honey can make a significant difference.
- Mix in Fresh Herbs:
- Secret: Mix in fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley just before serving for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.
- Let It Rest:
- Secret: Allow the Crockpot Pepper Steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the sauce to cling to the beef, enhancing the overall taste.
- Experiment with Rice Varieties:
- Secret: Try serving the pepper steak over different rice varieties like jasmine rice, brown rice, or basmati rice to discover complementary flavor profiles.
These secrets will help you achieve a perfectly flavorful and tender Crockpot Pepper Steak. Enjoy!