The aroma of a slow-cooked pepper steak wafting through the kitchen takes me back to cozy family dinners. It’s one of those comforting dishes that can elevate even the simplest of occasions. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that practically cooks itself, easy slow cooker pepper steak is just what you need. With tender beef stew meat enveloped in flavorful bell peppers and savory garlic, this recipe strikes the perfect balance of taste and convenience.
What makes it truly special is how the ingredients meld together over hours, creating a rich, mouthwatering sauce that clings to the beef. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or a lazy Sunday afternoon, and it serves wonderfully at gatherings. You can indulge in the scrumptious flavors with minimal fuss, making it ideal for both seasoned home cooks and those new to the kitchen.
Why you’ll love easy slow cooker pepper steak
- Effortless preparation with minimal cleanup.
- Full of flavor from tender beef and fresh veggies.
- Perfect for meal prep and batch cooking.
- Comforting and satisfying—great for family dinners.
- Budget-friendly and easy to customize.
What ingredients do I need for easy slow cooker pepper steak?
- Beef stew meat
- Bell peppers
- Onions
- Garlic
- Concentrated sauce
Ingredient notes & swaps:
- Beef stew meat is budget-friendly, but you could substitute with flank steak or sirloin for a different texture.
- Feel free to use a mix of bell pepper colors for a vibrant dish.
- Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a quick alternative if you’re in a pinch.
How do I make easy slow cooker pepper steak step-by-step?
To make pepper steak, simply place the beef stew meat in the slow cooker, add the sliced bell peppers, chopped onions, minced garlic, and pour the concentrated sauce on top. Stir everything together, then set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Pro Tip: For an even richer flavor, let it marinate for a few hours before cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is tender and the aroma fills your kitchen.
How should I serve it?
Serving pepper steak is as easy as it gets! Pair it with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. If you’re feeling indulgent, serve it with crusty bread on the side to mop up every last bit.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. It tastes just as good the next day!
How do I fix common issues?
If you find your pepper steak is too dry, it may have cooked too long—next time, check it towards the end of the cooking time. If it’s too bland, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of salt before serving. For soggy vegetables, you might want to add bell peppers halfway through the cooking process.
What variations can I try?
You can easily customize your pepper steak by adding vegetables like mushrooms or snap peas for extra texture. Swap the concentrated sauce for a homemade blend of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth for a unique twist. For heat, try adding some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen beef stew meat?
Yes, you can use frozen beef. Just make sure to increase cooking time, and ensure it’s fully defrosted before adding it to the slow cooker to ensure even cooking.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To thicken the sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry and stir it in during the last half hour of cooking.
Is it gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but check the concentrated sauce label to confirm it hasn’t been made with gluten-containing ingredients.
Easy Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Ingredients
Method
- Place the beef stew meat in the slow cooker.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, chopped onions, and minced garlic.
- Pour the concentrated sauce on top and stir everything together.
- Set the slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve with steamed rice or noodles to soak up the sauce.
- Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley for added freshness.
- For a satisfying touch, serve with crusty bread.