Crock Pot Pepper Steak Savory and Easy Recipe

Looking for a simple, tasty dinner idea? My Crock Pot Pepper Steak recipe combines flank steak with bell peppers, onion, and garlic for a savory meal that’s easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions, you’ll enjoy a warm, satisfying dish that cooks itself while you go about your day. Join me as I guide you through this hassle-free cooking adventure!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1.5 lbs flank steak, sliced into strips

– 1 green bell pepper, sliced

– 1 red bell pepper, sliced

– 1 large onion, sliced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

For the main part of this dish, flank steak is key. It has great flavor and is tender when cooked right. I like to slice it into strips. This helps it cook evenly in the crock pot. Bell peppers add color and crunch. Use both green and red for a nice mix. The onion gives sweetness, while garlic adds depth.

Sauce Ingredients

– 1 cup beef broth

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons cornstarch

– 2 tablespoons brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

The sauce makes this dish shine. Start with beef broth for rich flavor. Low sodium soy sauce keeps it balanced and not too salty. Cornstarch thickens the sauce, making it silky. Brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness, while ground ginger gives warmth. Black pepper and salt enhance all the flavors. I use vegetable oil to sear the beef, which adds more taste.

Optional Garnishes

– Chopped green onions

– Sesame seeds

Garnishes add a nice touch. Chopped green onions bring fresh flavor and color. Sesame seeds give a bit of crunch and a nutty taste. These are optional but really elevate the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation of the Sauce

– In a bowl, mix together:

– 1 cup beef broth

– 1/4 cup soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons cornstarch

– 2 tablespoons brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon ground ginger

– 1 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

Mix these ingredients well. You want a smooth mix with no lumps. This sauce adds flavor to your dish.

Searing the Steak

Searing the steak is key. It locks in juices and adds a rich taste. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

– Add the flank steak strips.

– Sear for 3-4 minutes until brown on all sides.

This browning step makes the meat tasty. Use a spatula to turn the steak pieces for even cooking.

Combining in the Crock Pot

Now, it’s time to build your meal in the crock pot. Start by layering the ingredients.

– Place the seared steak into the crock pot.

– Add:

– 1 sliced green bell pepper

– 1 sliced red bell pepper

– 1 sliced large onion

– 3 minced garlic cloves

Once layered, pour the sauce over everything. Make sure all the meat and veggies are coated well.

Cooking Time and Settings

Cover the crock pot and choose your cooking time.

– For low heat, cook for 6-8 hours.

– For high heat, cook for 3-4 hours.

Check the steak for doneness. It should be tender and the veggies soft. If you like a thicker sauce, remove the lid 30 minutes before serving. This helps to reduce the sauce. Enjoy the aroma while it cooks!

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the Best Flavor

To get the best flavor in your Crock Pot pepper steak, marinate the meat. Marinating adds depth and makes the steak tender. I suggest letting the steak soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh bell peppers and onions enhance the flavor and keep the dish vibrant.

Thickening the Sauce

If you want a thicker sauce, you have a couple of options. One way is to remove the lid about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to reduce and thicken. You can also mix more cornstarch with a little water and stir it in for extra thickness. Adjusting the cooking time helps, too. Cooking longer can also deepen the flavor and thicken the sauce naturally.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your pepper steak over steamed rice or noodles. This helps soak up all the savory flavors. Adding sides like steamed broccoli or a fresh salad completes the meal. For a twist, try serving it with some warm crusty bread to enjoy every last drop of that delicious sauce.

Variations

Adding Different Vegetables

You can make this dish even better by adding more veggies. Carrots bring a nice sweetness. Slice them thin so they cook fast. Snap peas add a nice crunch. They cook quickly and look great on the plate. You can also swap out the bell peppers. Try using yellow or orange peppers for a sweet twist. Each color adds its own taste and look.

Altering Protein Choices

If you want a change from beef, try chicken or tofu. Chicken breast works well and cooks fast. Just cut it into strips like the beef. Tofu is a great choice, too, for a meatless option. Make sure to press the tofu to remove extra water. Adjust the cooking time if you use chicken. It may cook quicker than beef. If using tofu, you can add it later in cooking. Cook it until it’s warm and tender.

Spice Level Adjustments

Want some heat? You can add chili flakes or fresh peppers. This gives the dish a nice kick. Start with a little and taste as you go. You can always add more, but it’s hard to take away heat. Customize the spice level to match your taste. If you like mild, skip the heat. If you love spice, go bold!

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftovers, let the pepper steak cool completely. Then, place it in airtight containers. This helps keep it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the containers with the date, so you remember when you made it.

Freezing Instructions

For freezing, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Divide the meal into portions for easy reheating. Remove as much air as you can from the bags. You can freeze pepper steak for up to three months. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating, but stir it often to heat evenly.

Shelf Life

Refrigerated pepper steak lasts about three days. If it has been in the fridge longer, check for spoilage. Signs of spoilage include a sour smell or a change in color. If you see any mold, throw it away. Always trust your senses; if it seems off, it’s best to discard it.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use other cuts of beef. Good options include skirt steak, sirloin, or chuck. Each cut has its own flavor and texture. Skirt steak works well for a tender bite. Sirloin offers a nice balance of cost and flavor. Chuck is great if you prefer a more robust taste. Just remember to adjust cooking times.

How long can I keep leftovers?

You can keep leftovers in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Store them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. If you notice any off smells or changes in color, it’s best to discard them. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prep this recipe ahead of time. You can slice the beef and veggies a day before. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook. This makes the cooking process faster. You can also cook the dish fully and reheat it later. Just ensure you heat it thoroughly before serving.

This blog post guided you through making a delicious dish with flank steak, fresh veggies, and flavorful sauce. You learned steps for preparation, cooking, and serving, plus tips for the best taste. Remember, you can customize this recipe by adding different vegetables or proteins. Storing leftovers safely will make your meal last longer. Enjoy your culinary journey and have fun experimenting in your kitche