This copy cat Crock Pot Pepper Steak recipe is a great meal to make when you are in the mood for something warm and tasty. This comforting dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed family meals when you want something filling without standing over the stove all evening.

In this post we will show you how to make this Crock Pot Pepper Steak right at home with simple steps and easy to find ingredients. Tender slices of beef are combined with colorful bell peppers onions and a rich savory sauce then slow cooked until everything is perfectly soft and flavorful. It is a simple recipe that delivers big results with very little effort.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe and you can adjust the seasoning to match your taste.

Beef sirloin or flank steak: The main protein that becomes tender as it slow cooks.
Green bell peppers: Add freshness texture and classic pepper steak flavor.
Red bell peppers: Bring sweetness and color to the dish.
Onion: Adds depth and balances the savory sauce.
Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with a mild aromatic note.
Beef broth: Forms the base of the sauce and keeps the meat moist.
Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and rich umami flavor.
Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce so it coats the beef and vegetables.
Brown sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
Black pepper: Enhances the pepper steak flavor.
Olive oil: Used to quickly sear the beef before slow cooking.
Cooked white rice: The perfect base for serving and soaking up the sauce.

Tools You’ll Need

Cast iron skillet or frying pan: Used to quickly sear the beef for added flavor before slow cooking.
Slow cooker or Crock Pot: Cooks the beef and vegetables gently over several hours.
Mixing bowl: For whisking together the sauce ingredients.
Cutting board: For slicing the beef and chopping vegetables.
Sharp knife: Ensures clean even slices of steak and vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons: Helps keep the sauce balanced and consistent.

Instructions

Step 1: Slice and Sear the Beef

I start by slicing the beef into thin strips against the grain because this helps keep it tender. I heat olive oil in a skillet over medium high heat and quickly sear the beef for a few minutes on each side. I do not cook it through at this stage because it will finish cooking in the slow cooker. This step adds extra flavor and gives the meat a rich color.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small mixing bowl I whisk together beef broth soy sauce brown sugar black pepper minced garlic and cornstarch until smooth. I make sure the cornstarch fully dissolves so the sauce thickens evenly later. The mixture should look slightly glossy and well combined.

Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot

I place the sliced green and red bell peppers along with chopped onions into the bottom of the slow cooker. Then I add the seared beef on top. I pour the prepared sauce evenly over everything making sure the meat and vegetables are coated.

Step 4: Slow Cook Until Tender

I cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. During this time the beef becomes tender and the peppers soften while absorbing the savory sauce. I occasionally check near the end to make sure the sauce has thickened properly.

Step 5: Serve Over Rice

Once finished I gently stir everything together to evenly distribute the sauce. I spoon the pepper steak generously over warm cooked white rice allowing the sauce to soak into the rice for maximum flavor.

Tips

I always slice the beef thinly and against the grain because that makes a noticeable difference in tenderness. If I want a thicker sauce I sometimes mix an extra teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For a little heat I add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili sauce. If I am short on time I skip searing the beef but I find that searing gives the best flavor.

Ways to Serve

I love serving Crock Pot Pepper Steak over fluffy white rice because the sauce coats every grain and makes each bite satisfying. It also pairs well with brown rice for a slightly nuttier flavor. Sometimes I serve it over noodles for a comforting variation. For a lighter option I spoon the pepper steak over steamed cauliflower rice which keeps the dish hearty but lower in carbohydrates. A simple side of steamed broccoli or snap peas makes the meal feel complete and balanced.

Storage Instructions

I allow the Crock Pot Pepper Steak to cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave adding a small splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This dish also freezes well for up to two months. I thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for Crock Pot Pepper Steak?

Yes you can use flank steak round steak or even stew meat for Crock Pot Pepper Steak as long as it is sliced thinly for tenderness.

Do I have to sear the beef for Crock Pot Pepper Steak?

Searing is optional for Crock Pot Pepper Steak but it adds deeper flavor and better texture to the final dish.

Can I make Crock Pot Pepper Steak without cornstarch?

If you prefer not to use cornstarch you can reduce the sauce slightly at the end of cooking or use arrowroot as a thickener in your Crock Pot Pepper Steak.

What vegetables can I add to Crock Pot Pepper Steak?

You can add mushrooms snap peas or carrots to Crock Pot Pepper Steak for extra texture and variety.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this Crock Pot Pepper Steak a try because it is simple filling and perfect for busy days when you still want a homemade meal. It is one of those dependable recipes that always turns out satisfying and flavorful. Save it for your next weeknight dinner and let me know how it turns out for you.

Happy Cooking!