Name: Easy Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491275H20M1S
Total time: PT-491275H20M1S
Cuisine: American/Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced thin; 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup ketchup; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

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🍽️ Easy Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Dinner: The Ultimate Dump and Go Beef Recipe

1. Introduction

If you crave a hearty, flavorful meal that practically makes itself, then you’ll love this pepper steak recipe. Made effortlessly in a slow cooker, this dish combines tender strips of beef with vibrant peppers and a savory sauce that’s bursting with umami. Imagine biting into juicy, perfectly cooked beef coated in a slightly spicy, tangy glaze—it’s an easy beef stir-fry transformed into a comforting, dump-and-go dinner. Whether weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe promises a satisfyingly delicious experience with minimal effort.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 4 hours: Perfect for busy schedules.
One-pot simplicity: Uses just your slow cooker, for easy cleanup.

Flavorful & tender: The slow cooking tenderizes the beef and deeply infuses the flavors.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite peppers or spice levels.
Family-friendly: A classic, satisfying dinner everyone will love.

3. Ingredient Notes

To achieve that luscious, melt-in-your-mouth texture, I recommend choosing high-quality beef strips labeled for stir-fry or similar cuts. Top sirloin or flank steak work perfectly, cut against the grain for maximum tenderness. The peppers add a sweet, slightly spicy crunch—consider a mix of red, green, and yellow for colorful appeal. For the sauce, soy sauce and Worcestershire lend tang and depth, while a touch of honey or brown sugar balances out the flavors with a hint of sweetness. Always opt for fresh garlic and ginger—it’s the aromatic backbone of this dish. Using fresh ingredients and quality beef elevates this simple recipe into a restaurant-worthy meal.

4. Kitchen Tools You Need

To make this slow cooker pepper steak, you’ll want reliable tools. A [Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer] simplifies preparing side dishes or crispy vegetables, perfect if you want to add some crunch. The [T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set] provides durable, nonstick surfaces for searing the beef before slow cooking. And for a seamless cooking experience, consider a [Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer] to finish meals with a crispy touch. These tools help elevate your cooking game and make preparation effortless.

5. How to Make Easy Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Dinner

Preparation & Searing

Start by cutting your beef into thin strips—aim for uniform pieces for even cooking. In a hot skillet with a splash of oil, quickly sear the beef until browned on all sides—this step locks in flavor and adds a lovely caramelized note. Once seared, transfer the beef to your slow cooker. As your kitchen fills with the tempting aroma, you’ll notice the beef becoming tender and aromatic, transforming into a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Cooking the Peppers & Sauce

Slice colorful bell peppers into strips and toss them into the slow cooker along with the beef. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire, minced garlic, ginger, honey, and a sprinkle of chili flakes if you like some heat. Pour this savory mixture over everything. Cover and set your slow cooker to low for about 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the peppers are soft, and the sauce has thickened into a glossy glaze that clings to the beef.

Finishing Touches

Once cooked, give everything a gentle stir. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and cold water and cook on high for 10 minutes. Serve this flavorful pepper steak over steamed rice or noodles for a complete dump-and-go dinner that’s both nutritious and satisfying.

6. Expert Tips for Success

For perfectly tender beef, avoid overcrowding the slow cooker—this ensures even heat distribution. Searing the beef before slow cooking enhances flavor, so don’t skip this step. Use fresh garlic and ginger for a fragrant base. If you like a spicy kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. Lastly, let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld beautifully.

7. Variations & Substitutions

If you’re avoiding gluten, swap soy sauce with coconut aminos for a similar savory punch. For a low-carb version, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Vegetarians can substitute beef with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, adjusting cooking times accordingly. Want extra heat? Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha to spice things up.

8. Storage & Reheating

This pepper steak dinner stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce. The flavors develop even more the next day, making leftovers just as delicious as the original.

9. FAQ

Can I use frozen beef for this slow cooker pepper steak?

While fresh beef yields the best texture, you can use frozen beef if you thaw it thoroughly and adjust the cooking time by about 30 minutes.

What are the best peppers to use?

A mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers is ideal for color and flavor. You can also experiment with poblano or banana peppers for a milder or spicier twist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be assembled in advance and stored in the fridge. Cook it later in the day, and enjoy a warm, flavorful meal without any extra effort.

10. Conclusion

This easy slow cooker pepper steak offers a perfect blend of tender beef, vibrant peppers, and savory, glazed sauce—all with minimal prep and effort. It’s an ideal dump-and-go dinner for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Pair it with rice or noodles, and enjoy a delicious, comforting meal that’s sure to become a staple in your weekly rotation.

Easy Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Dinner