Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food—*Slow Cooker Pepper Steak*! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate, combining tender beef with colorful bell peppers, all swimming in a savory sauce that’s just to die for. I remember the first time I made it; it was a chilly Sunday, and the aroma filled my kitchen, making my family gather around the table long before it was even time to eat. What I love most is how effortlessly it comes together. You toss everything in the slow cooker, and hours later, dinner is ready, bursting with flavor and warmth. Trust me, you’re gonna want to make this one again and again!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Gather these simple ingredients to create your savory masterpiece:
- 2 pounds beef sirloin, sliced into thin strips
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (I love using a mix of red and green for color!)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (don’t skip this, it adds so much flavor!)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening the sauce later)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for browning the beef)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Now, let’s dive into making this delicious dish! It’s super straightforward, and you’re going to love how everything comes together with minimal effort. First, make sure to get your beef ready. You want to heat that tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the sliced beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown the beef on all sides—this gives it a nice sear and deep flavor—about 3-4 minutes should do it. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker. It’s going to be so tender when it’s done!
Preparing the Beef
As you brown the beef, try not to rush the process; it’s all about that gorgeous color! Once you’ve got your beef beautifully browned, gently scoop it into the slow cooker. This step is so important because it locks in those flavors and ensures a juicy outcome.
Adding Vegetables and Sauce
Now, let’s layer on the goodness! To the slow cooker, add your sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic right over the beef. It’s like a colorful veggie blanket! In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch until smooth. Pour this delicious sauce over everything in the slow cooker. Trust me, your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
Cooking Process
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours. This is where the magic happens—slow cooking makes the beef super tender and allows all those flavors to meld beautifully. If you’re unsure if it’s done, just check that the beef shreds easily with a fork. You’ve got this!
Tips for Success with Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Want to take your *Slow Cooker Pepper Steak* to the next level? Here are my favorite pro tips! First, don’t be shy with the seasoning—taste as you go! I often add a splash more soy sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes if I’m feeling spicy. If you’re out of beef broth, chicken broth works just as well, or even a splash of red wine for depth. And for a twist, try adding some snap peas or mushrooms for extra texture. Lastly, if you have time, let it sit on the warm setting for an hour after cooking; it allows the flavors to deepen even more. Enjoy the process, and you’ll be amazed at the results!
Nutritional Information for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I’ve provided a general idea of the nutritional content per serving, it’s always good to check the labels of your products for the most accurate information. Enjoy this delicious meal while being mindful of your dietary needs!
FAQ About Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
Got questions about making *Slow Cooker Pepper Steak*? You’re not alone! One common question is about cooking time adjustments. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours, but I always find that low and slow brings out the best flavors. As for ingredient substitutions, don’t hesitate to swap out the beef for chicken or even tofu if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly! Now, if you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. Trust me, this dish gets even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic!
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tender beef and savory sauce will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Family-Friendly: It’s a hit with kids and adults alike, making it perfect for family dinners.
- Meal Prep Champion: Leftovers are a dream—enjoy them for lunch or dinner the next day!
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over rice, noodles, or even in a wrap for a tasty twist.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Pepper Steak
When it comes to serving *Slow Cooker Pepper Steak*, the options are endless! I love to serve it over a fluffy bed of steamed rice, allowing the savory sauce to soak in and create a deliciously comforting dish. Noodles are another fantastic option—try some egg noodles or even rice noodles for a fun twist! Don’t forget to add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans for a pop of color and nutrition. You could even whip up some warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that flavorful sauce. Enjoy every bite!
For more delicious recipes, check out our blog for inspiration!
If you’re interested in learning more about the nutritional benefits of beef, visit Beef It’s What’s for Dinner for detailed information.
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Slow Cooker Pepper Steak: 5 Easy Steps to Comfort Joy
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty slow cooker dish featuring tender beef and bell peppers in a savory sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef sirloin, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
- Brown the beef slices on all sides.
- Transfer beef to the slow cooker.
- Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
- In a bowl, mix beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cornstarch.
- Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
- Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serve with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Slow Cooker Pepper Steak, beef, slow cooker recipes