Craving a comforting and delicious meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this easy crockpot pepper steak recipe!
**Ingredients:**
– 2 lbs beef sirloin, thinly sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. In a crockpot, mix together beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add beef sirloin, onion, and bell peppers to the crockpot. Stir to coat the meat and vegetables in the sauce.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
4. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with some water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crockpot and cook for an additional 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
**Nutrition Information:**
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 35g
– Carbs: 20g
– Fat: 15g
**Popular questions:**
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
– Yes, you can use flank steak or ribeye if preferred.
2. Can I add other vegetables to the dish?
– Feel free to add mushrooms, broccoli, or snow peas for added flavor.
3. Can I substitute the beef broth with chicken broth?
– Yes, you can substitute with chicken broth if needed.
4. How can I make this recipe spicy?
– Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice it up.
5. Can I prepare this recipe in advance and freeze it?
– Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
6. Should I brown the meat before adding it to the crockpot?
– Browning the meat can add extra flavor, but it is not necessary for this recipe.
7. Can I use a slow cooker liner for easier cleanup?
– Yes, using a liner can make cleanup easier.
8. Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?
– Yes, you can use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content.
9. Can I add more garlic for extra flavor?
– Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste preferences.
10. Can I use frozen peppers instead of fresh ones?
– Frozen peppers can be used, but fresh ones may provide better texture.
**Helpful tips:**
1. Marinate the beef overnight for enhanced flavor.
2. Add a splash of sesame oil for an extra layer of richness.
3. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color.
4. Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
5. Customize the dish with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
6. Double the sauce ingredients for extra drizzle.
7. Add a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist.
8. Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.
9. Experiment with different types of bell peppers for added flavor variation.
10. For a thicker sauce, cook on high for the final 30 minutes.
**Expert Secrets:**
1. Slicing the beef thinly ensures it cooks evenly and quickly in the crockpot.
2. Mix the cornstarch with cold water to prevent clumping when thickening the sauce.
3. Adjust the soy sauce and sugar to taste for a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
4. For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the sauce.
5. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
6. For a richer sauce, add a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking.
7. Use fresh minced ginger for an extra kick of flavor.
8. Try different types of bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
9. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
10. For a low-carb option, serve the pepper steak over cauliflower rice.
This crockpot pepper steak recipe is a wonderful option for a simple and flavorful meal that requires minimal effort. Enjoy the tender beef and savory sauce over rice or noodles for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
