Introduction

There’s something incredibly reassuring about a slow cooker quietly doing its job while life moves on around it. Crockpot Pepper Steak is one of those dependable recipes that feels like a reward at the end of a long day—tender strips of beef, sweet onions, and colorful bell peppers simmered together in a savory, rich sauce that smells amazing long before dinner is ready.

This dish has that timeless, comforting flavor many of us grew up with. It’s not fancy or complicated, but it delivers every time. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, the peppers soften just enough to keep a bit of bite, and the sauce ties everything together into a hearty, satisfying meal that feels both familiar and special.

Perfect for busy weeknights, relaxed weekends, or when you need a reliable easy dinner recipe, this crockpot pepper steak fits seamlessly into family-friendly comfort food routines. It’s especially great on days when slow cooker meals make life easier and dinner practically cooks itself.

 

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Pepper Steak

• Tender, flavorful beef cooked low and slow
• One-pot slow cooker meal with minimal prep
• Rich, savory sauce that pairs with many sides
• Family-friendly comfort food everyone enjoys
• Perfect make-ahead easy dinner recipe
• Budget-conscious and filling

 

Ingredients

• Sirloin steak, cut into strips – 2 lbs
• Minced garlic – 2 teaspoons
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Hot water – ⅔ cup
• Beef bouillon cube – 1
• Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon
• Chopped onion – 1 cup
• Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
• Brown sugar – 1 teaspoon
• Diced tomatoes – 1 can
• Worcestershire sauce – 2 teaspoons
• Pepper – to taste
• Bell peppers, sliced (any color) – 2

 

 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Steak

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sirloin strips and minced garlic. Sauté just until the beef is browned on the outside. This step adds depth of flavor without fully cooking the meat.

Step 2: Prepare the Thickener

Dissolve the beef bouillon cube in hot water. Whisk in the cornstarch until smooth, then pour the mixture into the crockpot.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes, and pepper into the crockpot. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Combine and Cook (Phase One)

Add the chopped onion and browned beef to the crockpot. Stir gently. Cook on HIGH for 3 hours or LOW for 6–7 hours.

Step 5: Add Peppers and Finish

Add the sliced bell peppers during the last hour of cooking. Continue cooking on the same heat setting until peppers are tender but still vibrant.

 

Tips for the Best Pepper Steak

• Slice beef against the grain for maximum tenderness
• Don’t skip browning—it adds rich flavor
• Add peppers near the end to avoid mushy texture
• Taste before serving and adjust seasoning if needed
• For thicker sauce, leave lid off for the last 20 minutes

 

Variations to Try

• Spicy Pepper Steak: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste
• Low-Sodium Version: Use low-sodium soy sauce and tomatoes
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or snap peas
• Asian-Inspired: Add a teaspoon of grated ginger
• Tomato-Free: Replace diced tomatoes with beef broth

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, flank steak or round steak also work well.

2. Do I need to brown the beef first?
It’s optional, but highly recommended for flavor.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully.

4. Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze up to 2 months.

5. Can I cook it all on LOW?
Absolutely—LOW for 7–8 hours works well.

6. Will the peppers get too soft?
Not if added during the last hour.

7. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just make sure your crockpot is large enough.

8. Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, mild and savory with no heat.

9. How do I thicken the sauce more?
Add an extra cornstarch slurry near the end.

10. Does it pair well with rice?
Perfectly—it soaks up the sauce.

 

How to Serve

• Over white or brown rice
• With mashed potatoes
• Alongside noodles
• With steamed vegetables
• As a hearty meal after slow cooker meals or easy dinner recipes

 

Make-Ahead & Storage

Make Ahead:
Prep ingredients the night before and refrigerate.

Storage:
Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating:
Warm gently on the stove or microwave.

 

Conclusion

Crockpot Pepper Steak is the definition of reliable comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and effortless—everything you want in a slow cooker meal. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for the week, or just craving a warm, satisfying dinner, this recipe delivers every time. It’s proof that simple ingredients, treated well, can create something truly comforting.