Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

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Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a delightful dish that fills your kitchen with the irresistible aroma of tender beef and vibrant bell peppers. The combination of succulent flank or sirloin steak cooked low and slow, infused with a savory sauce, brings a comforting warmth that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is a culinary journey that will draw you in with its rich flavors and simple preparation. It’s not just easy to make but also a family-friendly meal that will satisfy the whole crew.

You’ll appreciate the simplicity of this step-by-step recipe that allows you to set it and forget it. The tender, juicy steak pairs beautifully with the colorful peppers, making for a dish that’s not only tasty but visually appealing as well. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are plenty of reasons to adore Slow Cooker Pepper Steak. First and foremost, the ease of preparation will have you singing its praises. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Just toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you tend to other tasks around the house.

Second, it’s a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or at a gathering with friends, this dish will impress everyone at the table. The tender chunks of steak and crispy bell peppers enveloped in a savory sauce make each bite a delight.

The versatility is an added bonus. You can serve it over fluffy rice, hearty noodles, or even in a warm pita pocket for a twist. No matter how you choose to enjoy it, this dish promises to be a satisfying experience.

Ingredients

To prepare Slow Cooker Pepper Steak, you’ll need the following ingredients that combine for a burst of flavor:

• 1.5 pounds flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain: This tender cut of beef is ideal for slow cooking and guarantees juicy bites.
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil: Used to achieve that perfect sear on the steak.
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced: This adds a fresh, crisp texture, brightening the dish with its vibrant color.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced: For sweetness and depth of flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Not only colorful, but it also adds a lovely sweetness that complements the other peppers.
• 1 large onion, sliced: Aromatic and slightly sweet, a must-have for that savory undercurrent.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Elevates flavors with its rich, warm aroma, creating a comforting base for the dish.
• 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth, juiciness, and richness to the steak as it cooks.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce: This essential element provides that signature umami flavor that rounds out the dish.
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds just the right amount of kick, enhancing the savory notes.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce toward the end of cooking.
• 2 tablespoons cold water: Works in tandem with cornstarch to create a luxuriously thick sauce.

This harmonious blend of ingredients not only packs a flavor punch but also offers various textures that will enchant your palate.

Step-by-Step Directions

Creating your own Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a breeze! Follow these detailed steps to ensure a delicious outcome:

1. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips: This is crucial for tenderness; cutting against the grain shortens the meat fibers, yielding a more enjoyable bite.

2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef for 3 to 4 minutes until browned: This step enhances the flavor through caramelization, creating a beautiful crust on the steak.

3. Slice the bell peppers and onion into strips: Feel free to cut them to your desired thickness; this will decide their bite when they soften throughout the cooking process.

4. In a bowl, mix beef broth, soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper for the sauce: Whisking these ingredients together allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

5. Layer the beef, bell peppers, and onion in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over: This ensures even flavor distribution as everything cooks down.

6. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours: The longer cooking time breaks down the meat fibers, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

7. About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch and cold water, then stir into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce: This last-minute trick will elevate your sauce, making it rich and luxurious.

8. Serve with rice or noodles: The perfect accompaniment to soak up all that delicious sauce!

The clear, easy-to-follow directions will guide you to create a magnificent meal that your family will adore.

Tips & Tricks

• Marinate the beef: For an added depth of flavor, consider marinating the steak slices in the soy sauce and minced garlic for a couple of hours before cooking.
• Add vegetables: You can sneak in more veggies like broccoli or snap peas at the last hour of cooking for additional nutrients and color.
• Use a high-quality beef broth: The better the broth, the better the flavor! Look for low-sodium options if you’re concerned about salt intake.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving suggestions. It pairs perfectly with:

• Steamed Jasmine or Basmati rice: Their aromatic qualities complement the dish beautifully.
• Egg noodles: Soft, chewy noodles are excellent for soaking up the savory sauce.
• Warm pita bread: For a fun twist, serve it in pita pockets with fresh veggies.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or any cozy dinner night in!

Nutritional Information

This mouthwatering dish is not only flavorful but also provides decent nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of approximate values per serving (serving size is one cup):

• Calories: ~350
• Protein: ~32g
• Carbohydrates: ~12g
• Fat: ~20g
• Fiber: ~2g

As with all meals, enjoy it in moderation and combine it with healthy sides for a balanced diet!

Storing Tips & Variations

To keep your Slow Cooker Pepper Steak fresh:

• Storage: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: If you’d like to freeze it, make sure to exclude the cornstarch thickener, as it can alter the texture. Seal it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until thoroughly warmed.

Variations you can try:

• Try different proteins: Substitute the beef with chicken or tofu for a lighter option.
• Spice it up: Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper for heat.
• Go low-carb: Serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional grains.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to the dinner table. With its tender textures and rich flavors, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So why not give this recipe a try? You may find that it becomes a new staple in your cooking repertoire. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments!

FAQs

1. Can I use other cuts of beef?
   Yes, while flank or sirloin steak are ideal, you can also use brisket or chuck roast; just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.

2. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with adding mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for a nutritious boost.

3. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
   Yes, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours. Just ensure the beef is tender and cooked through.

4. Is it gluten-free?
   To make it gluten-free, you can use tamari instead of soy sauce, which is a gluten-free alternative.

5. How do I know when the steak is done?
   The steak is done when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork, which usually occurs after 6-8 hours on low.

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

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A delightful dish featuring tender beef and vibrant bell peppers, slow-cooked to perfection with a savory sauce.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 480 minutes
• Total Time: 495 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: None

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 pounds flank or sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons cold water

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Instructions

1. Slice the steak against the grain into thin strips.
2. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef for 3 to 4 minutes until browned.
3. Slice the bell peppers and onion into strips.
4. In a bowl, mix beef broth, soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper for the sauce.
5. Layer the beef, bell peppers, and onion in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over.
6. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours.
7. About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch and cold water, then stir into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
8. Serve with rice or noodles.

Notes

For added flavor, marinate the beef in soy sauce and garlic before cooking. You can also add more veggies or different proteins as variations.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

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