There’s something undeniably comforting about a slow-cooked meal that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and delivers melt-in-your-mouth flavor. This Crock Pot Pepper Steak recipe does just that — it’s a classic comfort food with a savory twist. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or simply cozying up on the couch with a bowl of hearty, flavorful goodness.
Whether you’re a working parent, a college student learning to cook, or a seasoned home chef looking for an easy dinner option, this recipe checks all the boxes. Tender chunks of beef, sweet bell peppers, and a rich, tomato-infused gravy come together to create a dish that’s not only simple to prepare but absolutely unforgettable.
Let’s dive into how to make this Crock Pot Pepper Steak and why it might just become your new weeknight favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Pepper Steak
- Effortless and hands-off: The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting for you — just a few simple steps of prep, and dinner practically makes itself.
- Flavor-packed: With layers of seasoning, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a tomato-beef gravy, every bite is a burst of deep, savory flavor.
- Family-friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike. Pair it with rice or mashed potatoes and you have a complete, satisfying meal.
- Budget-conscious: Using beef stew meat makes it more affordable without sacrificing tenderness, thanks to slow cooking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into making this Crock Pot Pepper Steak:
- 16 oz of beef stew meat
- 2 green bell peppers
- 2 red bell peppers (or use any combo of colors)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 can (14.5 oz) beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) stewed tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 tsp seasoned salt
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour (plus more for gravy)
Kitchen Equipment Required
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board and knife
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Slow cooker (Crock Pot)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Aluminum foil or slow cooker liner (optional for easy cleanup)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prep the Meat
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and seasoned salt. Toss the beef stew meat in this mixture until it’s well coated.
2. Sear the Meat and Veggies
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the coated beef, minced garlic, and bell peppers (cut into strips). Cook until the beef is lightly browned on the outside and the peppers are slightly tender. This step helps lock in flavor and texture.
3. Transfer to Crock Pot
Move the beef and peppers to a lined slow cooker, leaving the grease behind in the skillet.
4. Make the Gravy
In the same skillet (do not clean it — the brown bits add flavor), pour in the can of stewed tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. Add the remaining flour gradually while stirring to make a smooth gravy. Let it simmer until thickened slightly.
5. Slow Cook to Perfection
Pour the gravy mixture over the beef and peppers in the slow cooker. Add the Worcestershire sauce. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours. The long cook time makes the beef tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you. This pepper steak keeps well and is even better the next day.
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the gravy.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This Crock Pot Pepper Steak is versatile and pairs beautifully with:
- Steamed white rice – A classic pairing that soaks up all that flavorful gravy.
- Mashed potatoes – For an ultra-comforting twist.
- Crusty bread – Ideal for dipping into the rich sauce.
- Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles – A low-carb alternative.
- Side salad – A fresh green salad with vinaigrette cuts the richness perfectly.
Drink pairings:
A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel pairs wonderfully with the deep flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, try an iced tea with lemon or a sparkling water with lime.
Tips, Swaps, and Variations
✅ Recipe Tips
- Don’t skip browning the meat: It adds a depth of flavor you can’t get from slow cooking alone.
- Slice peppers evenly: For even cooking and a better texture.
- Use a liner: A slow cooker liner makes cleanup a breeze.
🔁 Ingredient Swaps
- Protein options: Substitute chicken thighs or pork for a different twist.
- Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes can replace stewed tomatoes for a slightly chunkier sauce.
- Thickener: Cornstarch slurry can be used instead of flour for gluten-free gravy.
🌶️ Add-Ins & Customizations
- Add onions for more savory depth.
- Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Throw in mushrooms for an earthy, umami boost.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Yes! Use a Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid. Follow the steps up to transferring everything to the slow cooker, then simmer on low heat on the stovetop for 2.5 to 3 hours until the beef is tender.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can, but you’ll need to add extra liquid (like broth or tomato juice) and simmer them longer to achieve the same richness as stewed tomatoes.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely before portioning into freezer containers. Thaw and reheat as needed.
What if I only have one kind of bell pepper?
No worries! Use whatever bell peppers you have. The variety adds color, but the flavor will still shine through with just one kind.
Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Crock Pot Recipe
This Crock Pot Pepper Steak is more than just a meal — it’s a flavorful, fuss-free experience that brings comfort to your table. With a little prep and a whole lot of flavor, it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Tried it? Loved it? Let me know in the comments!
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