Crock Pot Pepper Steak
Crock Pot Pepper Steak is one of those comforting dishes that warms the soul and fills the belly. This stew is a savory blend of tender beef, colorful bell peppers, and rich gravy, all melded together in a slow cooker. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal but don’t have the time to hover over the stove. There’s something incredibly satisfying about tossing everything into the crockpot and letting the magic happen while you go about your day.
Reasons to Try It
If you’re looking for a dish that checks all the boxes—delicious, simple, and family-friendly—then this Crock Pot Pepper Steak recipe is for you. Aside from being a wholesome meal that pleases even the pickiest eaters, it’s budget-friendly and can feed a crowd. It’s an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot meal?
"This pepper steak is my family’s favorite! So easy to make, and the flavor is out of this world. We serve it over rice, and it’s always a hit!" – A happy home cook.
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Crock Pot Pepper Steak is incredibly straightforward, making it ideal for anyone, regardless of cooking experience. You will start by giving the beef stew meat a little TLC with a coating of seasoned flour. This step guarantees a nice caramelization when searing in the skillet. After that, it’s all about layering flavors in the slow cooker.
What You’ll Need
- 16 oz beef stew meat
- 2 bell peppers (one red and one green), sliced into strips
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 can beef broth
- 1 can stewed tomatoes with juice
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour plus extra for gravy
Feel free to swap out extra bell pepper colors for variety or use chicken if beef isn’t your thing.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour and seasoned salt. Toss the beef stew meat in this mixture until it’s well coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the coated meat along with the minced garlic and sliced bell peppers. Sauté until the meat begins to brown—usually around 5–7 minutes.
- Transfer the browned meat and peppers into a lined or greased slow cooker. Leave any grease behind in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add the canned stewed tomatoes with juice and beef broth. Gradually stir in some extra flour to thicken the liquid into a nice gravy.
- Pour the gravy over the meat and peppers in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours.
- To serve, spoon over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving Crock Pot Pepper Steak, you have options! This dish pairs beautifully with a side of fluffy rice to soak up that delicious gravy. For a comforting twist, try it with buttery mashed potatoes or atop egg noodles. If you want to keep it lighter, consider adding a fresh salad or roasted vegetables alongside.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover pepper steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If you have a larger batch, freezing is an option! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 3 months.
When reheating frozen pepper steak, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming.
Pro Chef Tips
- Brown the Meat: This step enhances the flavor, so don’t skip it! A good sear adds depth that really elevates the dish.
- Flour Care: When making your gravy, add the flour gradually to avoid lumps. This will give you a nice, smooth gravy that coats the ingredients beautifully.
- Cut Uniformly: For even cooking, make sure your bell pepper strips and meat pieces are about the same size.
Creative Twists
Feel like mixing things up? Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a different flavor profile. You could also throw in some mushrooms or broccoli for extra nutrition. For a spicy kick, include jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. And if you prefer a different protein, chicken thighs or even cubed tofu could work wonders.
Common Questions
How long does it take to make?
This recipe requires about 8 hours on low in the slow cooker, but the hands-on prep time is merely about 15 minutes.
Can I use frozen beef stew meat?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s recommended to thaw it first for more even cooking.
What can I substitute for beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth can serve as excellent alternatives, but they will slightly alter the flavor profile.
In summary, Crock Pot Pepper Steak is not only easy to prepare but also hits the mark for flavor and comfort. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a home-cooked meal. Enjoy!
Crock Pot Pepper Steak
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine flour and seasoned salt. Toss the beef stew meat in this mixture until it’s well coated.
- Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. When hot, add the coated meat along with the minced garlic and sliced bell peppers. Sauté until the meat begins to brown, around 5–7 minutes.
- Transfer the browned meat and peppers into a lined or greased slow cooker. Leave any grease behind in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add the canned stewed tomatoes with juice and beef broth. Gradually stir in some extra flour to thicken the liquid into a nice gravy.
- Pour the gravy over the meat and peppers in the slow cooker, cover, and cook on low for 8 hours.
- To serve, spoon over rice, mashed potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread, and enjoy the rich, savory flavors.
