Slow Cooker Pepper Steak: An Irresistible Comfort Food Classic

There are certain meals that instantly feel like home, and Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is one of them. Rich, savory, slightly sweet, and loaded with tender beef and vibrant bell peppers, this dish is the ultimate example of how simple ingredients can transform into something unforgettable. Thanks to the magic of slow cooking, the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while soaking up a deeply flavorful sauce that tastes like it simmered all day—because it did.

Inspired by classic Chinese-American pepper steak, this crockpot version is perfect for busy families, meal prep enthusiasts, and anyone craving a hearty, satisfying dinner with minimal effort. Once you try it, you’ll understand why there are never leftovers.

Ingredients & Why Each One Matters

• Beef Sirloin (2 pounds) – Sirloin is ideal for slow cooking because it becomes incredibly tender while maintaining a rich, beefy flavor. You can slice or cube it depending on preference.
• Bell Peppers (3, assorted colors) – Red, yellow, and green peppers add sweetness, color, and a slight crunch that balances the tender beef.
• Onion (1 large) – As it cooks, onion melts into the sauce, adding natural sweetness and depth.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Garlic brings aromatic warmth and enhances every savory note.
• Beef Broth (¾ cup) – Forms the base of the sauce and keeps everything moist during slow cooking.
• Beef Bouillon Cubes (3) – Intensifies the beef flavor for a bold, restaurant-quality taste.
• Soy Sauce (¼ cup) – Adds umami richness and that classic pepper steak flavor.
• Honey (2 tablespoons) – Balances the saltiness with gentle sweetness for a perfectly rounded sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce (1 teaspoon) – Adds complexity with tangy, savory undertones.
• Ground Ginger (1 teaspoon) – Provides warmth and subtle spice that complements the soy sauce.
• Cornstarch (2 tablespoons) – Naturally thickens the sauce into a silky, glossy finish.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances all flavors and allows you to season to taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the slow cooker. Place the sliced beef, bell peppers, and onion directly into the slow cooker. Spread them evenly for consistent cooking.
2. Mix the sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together beef broth, bouillon cubes, soy sauce, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Combine. Pour the sauce evenly over the beef and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
4. Slow cook. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
5. Stir and serve. Give the mixture a good stir before serving to fully distribute the thickened sauce.

Why This Recipe Is So Loved

This crockpot pepper steak recipe is a favorite because it delivers maximum flavor with minimal work. There’s no pre-searing, no complicated steps, and no babysitting the stove. Everything goes into the slow cooker, and hours later you’re rewarded with a rich, comforting meal that tastes like takeout—only better and healthier.

Pro Tips for Perfect Pepper Steak

• Slice against the grain for the most tender beef.
• Don’t overcook on high; low and slow yields the best texture.
• Want extra heat? Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced chili peppers.
• Thicker sauce: Let the lid rest slightly ajar for the last 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this slow cooker pepper steak over fluffy white rice, nutty brown rice, or tender rice noodles. For a complete meal, pair it with steamed broccoli, snap peas, or a crisp cucumber salad. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a beautiful finishing touch.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a dependable, crowd-pleasing dinner that delivers bold flavor with effortless preparation, this Slow Cooker Pepper Steak belongs in your recipe rotation. It’s comforting, customizable, and guaranteed to disappear fast. Simple ingredients, incredible taste, and stress-free cooking—this is slow cooker perfection at its finest.