Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

Cook Time: 190 minutes

Ingredients
This recipe yields 6 servings. Ingredients have been adjusted accordingly. Note that cooking times and steps remain unchanged even when scaling the recipe.

  • 2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 2-inch strips
  • teaspoon garlic powder (or to taste)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 beef bouillon cube
  • cup hot water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • cup chopped onion
  • 2 large green bell peppers, roughly chopped
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can stewed tomatoes, with liquid
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon white sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Directions

  1. Prepare all ingredients by measuring and chopping as necessary.
  2. Sprinkle the beef sirloin strips with garlic powder, ensuring an even coating.
  3. In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Once hot, sear the beef strips for about 5 minutes on each side until they develop a rich brown crust.
  4. Transfer the seared beef to a slow cooker.
  5. In a separate , dissolve the beef bouillon cube in the hot water. Stir in the cornstarch until it is fully dissolved.
  6. Pour the bouillon mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
  7. Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, stewed tomatoes with their liquid, soy sauce, sugar, and salt to the slow cooker. Stir to combine all ingredients.
  8. Cover the slow cooker and cook on High for 3 to 4 hours, or on Low for 6 to 8 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Information Amount
Calories 301
Total Fat 16g (20% DV)
Saturated Fat 5g (23% DV)
Cholesterol 65mg (22% DV)
Sodium 1189mg (52% DV)
Total Carbohydrate 12g (4% DV)
Dietary Fiber 2g (7% DV)
Total Sugars 5g
Protein 28g (56% DV)
Vitamin C 48mg (53% DV)
Calcium 53mg (4% DV)
Iron 3mg (17% DV)
Potassium 609mg (13% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

This classic dish, known as Slow Cooker Pepper Steak, features tender strips of beef sirloin, green bell peppers, onions, and stewed tomatoes, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. A comforting and flavorful meal, its beloved by many for its simplicity and ease of preparation. But beyond just being a tasty dinner, there are some interesting details and regional variations that make this dish even more fascinating.

History and Origins

The exact origins of pepper steak are a bit unclear, but its widely believed to have been inspired by Chinese-American cuisine. While the concept of combining beef and peppers can be found in various cultures around the world, pepper steak, as its commonly known in the United States, is closely tied to American adaptations of stir-fry and Chinese-inspired dishes. The use of bell peppers, soy sauce, and beef makes this dish resemble other popular stir-fry recipes, but the slow-cooking method makes it distinct in terms of flavor and texture. Over time, the slow cooker version has become a convenient twist, making the dish accessible to busy home cooks everywhere.

Regional Variations

While the basic ingredients of pepper steak remain consistent, different regions and families often put their own spin on the recipe. In many parts of the United States, pepper steak is made with sirloin steak and green bell peppers, creating a dish that is both simple and flavorful. In other variations, red or yellow bell peppers may be used for added color and sweetness. Some regions may even add ingredients like mushrooms, baby carrots, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor. In certain areas, pepper steak is served alongside rice, while others might prefer mashed potatoes or noodles to complement the dish.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

Although pepper steak may seem similar to other stir-fry dishes, it stands out in a few key ways. For one, the use of a slow cooker means that the beef becomes incredibly tender as it simmers in its own juices, unlike a typical stir-fry where the beef is cooked quickly over high heat. The slow cooker method allows the flavors of the soy sauce, garlic, and bell peppers to meld together, creating a richer sauce thats perfect for serving over rice. Additionally, pepper steak often features stewed tomatoes, which add both sweetness and acidity, giving it a unique flavor profile compared to more traditional stir-fry dishes.

Where It Is Typically Served

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is commonly served in homes for a hearty weeknight dinner. Its especially popular in American households, where its a go-to meal for families looking for something filling and easy to prepare. The dish is typically paired with steamed white rice, although mashed potatoes, noodles, or even crusty bread can be used to soak up the flavorful sauce. In restaurants, particularly those specializing in American comfort food or Chinese-American fusion, pepper steak might be found on the menu as a signature dish. Its also a great option for meal prepping or serving at potlucks, where its simplicity and wide appeal make it a crowd-pleaser.

Interesting Facts

  • The slow cooker version of pepper steak became popular in the 1970s when crockpots first gained widespread use. The method of slow cooking beef allows it to become tender and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce, making it an easy and fuss-free dinner option.
  • While the dish is often made with beef sirloin, some variations use flank steak or round steak for a more budget-friendly option. These cuts still turn out tender after slow cooking, making them perfect for this dish.
  • Adding vegetables like mushrooms, baby carrots, or even celery to the dish is a great way to boost its nutritional value and enhance the flavors. Some people also like to add a bit of hot sauce or chili flakes to give the dish a spicy kick.
  • One of the reasons this recipe is so beloved is its adaptability. You can modify the ingredients and cooking times to suit your preferences. For example, if you prefer crisp-tender vegetables, you can add the peppers at the last hour of cooking.
  • Many people refer to this dish as comfort food because its warm, filling, and easy to make. Its savory aroma and tender beef make it a perfect dish for cozy nights at home with family or friends.

Conclusion

Whether youre looking for a dish to serve to your family on a busy weeknight or a comforting meal for a special occasion, Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a winning choice. Its roots in Chinese-American cuisine and its regional variations make it a versatile and beloved recipe that can be customized to suit any taste. Try it for yourself, and enjoy the satisfying blend of tender beef, savory sauce, and colorful bell peppers!

FAQ about Slow Cooker Pepper Steak Recipe

Yes, you can substitute sirloin with other cuts like flank steak or chuck roast. However, the texture might vary slightly, with chuck roast being more tender after longer cooking.

Yes, feel free to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or even zucchini. If you want them to stay firmer, add them in the last hour of cooking.

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before. Chop the vegetables, slice the beef, and store them in the fridge. In the morning, just add everything to the slow cooker and cook as directed.

Store any leftover pepper steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, but be aware that the peppers might lose some of their texture after freezing.

Yes, you can use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot for a faster version. After browning the meat, cook the dish on the 'Stew' or 'Meat' setting for around 30 to 40 minutes, depending on your machine.

This dish is delicious served over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.

Absolutely! You can add chili flakes, fresh chili peppers, or hot sauce to give it an extra kick. Adjust the level of spice based on your preference.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a little more cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of the cooking time. Alternatively, you can let it cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce the sauce.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari. You can also use coconut aminos for a sweeter flavor.

Yes, you can use fresh diced tomatoes, but you may want to add a bit more seasoning, such as a pinch of sugar or extra salt, to match the flavor of canned stewed tomatoes.

Comments

Ginger C

10/06/2025 01:52:54 PM

This is very similiar to a recipe I have been making for years that my kids affectionately call Mommy Slop. As in "what's for dinner? Mommy Slop!" I don't use cornstarch, and use brown sugar instead of white, also I add more onion, soy sauce and worstershire sauce. Then I cook and add the seasonings to taste.

Cindi M.

03/19/2003 03:00:10 PM

This recipe was DELICIOUS and sooooo easy to make! My grocery store had pre-sliced "Beef For Stir-Fry" on sale, so I substituted that for the sirloin and it turned out fantastic (it also saved alot of time and effort not having to slice the meat myself)! I followed the recipe exactly and it was done after about 6 hours on low... the meat was super tender and almost falling apart! The sauce was a little bit thinner than I like, so I took another tablespoon of cornstarch and mixed it in a small bowl with a little bit of the sauce, then dumped it back into the crockpot and mixed it up real well. Then I let it cook on low for another 30 minutes and this thickened the sauce up perfectly! I served it over steamed white rice and then served the leftovers the next day with mashed potatoes -- both were YUMMY! My husband and I really loved this recipe and I'll definitely be making it again!

Foodie

08/18/2007 07:00:16 AM

Great recipe. Good change from your typical crock pot recipe with cream of anything soup. Definitely put the peppers in at the end. I will double the sauce next time. The only change I made was I did not add salt. 7/7/08-This is so wonderful I did triple the sauce this time-3 cans of tomatoes and triple bouillon/water mixture. I decreased the soy sauce to 7 TBSP. I did not add any salt. You need to make it.

TRACI8878

03/26/2008 04:07:16 PM

This was easy and delicious! Will definitely be a keeper in my recipe box. I added a couple cloves of chopped garlic and a few dashes or Worcestershire sauce. Like all the other reviews, the peppers were soft, but I love them that way. For crisper peppers, add at the end.

Adrienne

02/18/2024 03:12:49 PM

Delicious! I did not add the sugar or salt and added an extra pepper and a 28oz can of tomatoes. Also added Worcestershire sauce for added flavor. I will make it again, but I will hold off adding the veggies until the last hour as some suggested.

Kenn Talbot

05/07/2024 03:07:26 PM

Very tasty and easy. With soy sauce, bouillon and canned tomatoes the tsp. of salt is not needed. Leave it out and Na is cut by about 1/3. It can be salted if you must after serving.

Shawn

07/13/2020 12:34:48 AM

My whole family loves this! The only change I make is to add a can of Rotel. If I'm pinched for time, I put everything in the Instant Pot after I brown the meat strips. I push the Stew button and use the slow release. It's ready in an hour tops.

Richard Holborow

11/27/2023 09:48:23 PM

LOVED the recipe but made changes: Used HAM instead of beef, subbed out the peppers for Bean sprouts, and baked it instead of the slow cooker. Groovy!

SunnyTongs9502

06/13/2023 05:17:50 AM

I’m always requested to make this pepper steak recipe, everyone always loves it. I do add a couple of drops of Worcestershire sauce, and I do one green, red and yellow capsicum to the slow cooker after 2 hours on low. As suggested in the comment section, and also sauté my onions in the fry pan for just a few minutes continuously stirring so they don’t burn and then add to slow cooker. I’d recommend this recipe 😋

YellowScale2477

02/06/2023 01:50:43 AM

I loved the recipe but I did tweak it a bit. I used green and yellow peppers and I used brown sugar instead of white. I misread the recipe and I added 1 Tbsp of brown sugar and we ate it over rice. My husband loved it. The second time I made it I started in a large pan on the stovetop and finished it in an hour in the oven at 350 degrees. It was wonderful! It will forever be a favorite of ours! Thank you!

Gemma

04/28/2020 02:46:09 PM

Love this recipe! I've made this several times now bc my daughter asks for it on a regular basis! Shes very picky about what she eats, but LOVES this pepper steak! I have made some minor adjustments, but I still revert back to it for clarity whenever I am going to make it. First, I marinade the meat overnight with the garlic powder and the soy sauce. Second, I use the slow cooker saute function (I think most have it), and brown the meat right inside the pot rather than transfer it, just to save a step. 3rd, I opt for Olive Oil rather than vegetable oil (it's the italian in me I guess) and add the meat a little at a time until its all browned, and juices have begun to sizzle. Switch function to slow cook, and start adding remaining ingredients. Because the stewed tomatoes have added sugar, and have their own sweetness, I omit the extra sugar indicated in the recipe, and do the same for the extra salt bc the soy sauce has a salty taste and by sitting overnight, the meat gets just the right flavor. This seems to balance well for us, and doesnt taste like anything's missing. I put out the sea salt in case anyone wants to add a little salt, but even my husband, who literally puts salt on everything doesnt even look for it. 8 hrs on low works well and the longer, the better. Served over white rice. The recipe always allows for leftovers, which taste even better a few days later.

Exeter

09/09/2025 06:43:15 PM

Loved it!

Rhonda Hawthorne Brown

09/05/2025 01:51:41 PM

I've been making this recipe forever! I always add the veggies after the meat is almost perfectly tender and everything is done at the same time. The first time I tried it I made it as is and the veggies were mush. I also add a small fresh container of sliced baby bella mushrooms. So yummy 😋.

The Cooking

08/26/2025 01:33:34 PM

Super flavorful and easy to prep! The steak turned out melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the peppers still had a nice bite. I followed the recipe exactly and served it over jasmine rice. A total win for busy weeknights. Thanks to TheCookingTwins for making slow cooker pepper steak this delicious and effortless!

Deanna

07/15/2025 05:30:16 PM

I have made this recipe several times and love it. And soon to make it for my son for him to try

srhaecheatham

06/29/2025 11:28:38 PM

Love the recipe! I used beef broth instead of beef bouillon and added more broth and cornstarch. It’s a keeper!

Sue Wright

06/07/2025 06:44:50 PM

I used half the meat and one BIG bell pepper cut in 2" strips, but left the rest the same (no salt or sugar). Didn't pre-brown; just threw in the beef, sprinkled with garlic powder, added the rest, except for the peppers, which I added for the last 2 hours. Cooked 8 hours on low.

AmberPea7724

06/03/2025 03:11:58 PM

Good

Heather Smith

03/31/2025 03:38:28 AM

So easy, I could make it every week.

Aaron Johnson

03/08/2025 02:34:54 PM

Made it once — already bragging about it.