Description of this recipe
Crock Pot Pepper Steak is a mouthwatering dish that combines tender pieces of beef sirloin with colorful bell peppers and a rich, savory sauce. Slow-cooked to perfection, this recipe results in a flavorful and hearty meal that the whole family will love.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe for its simplicity and convenience. With minimal preparation and cooking time, the crock pot allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both rich in taste and full of nutrition. The combination of succulent beef, crisp vegetables, and a zesty sauce makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser for both special occasions and weeknight dinners.
Introduction
Crock Pot cooking has become a time-honored tradition for many home cooks, and it’s easy to see why. The ability to prepare a hearty meal with minimal effort while maximizing flavor is truly a culinary dream. This Crock Pot Pepper Steak recipe embodies this ethos perfectly. Using sirloin steak, a handful of common vegetables, and a few essential spices, you can create a delicious dish that feels gourmet without the fuss. Perfect served over rice or alongside a crusty loaf of bread, this meal can easily be customized to suit your family’s tastes. Let’s dive into the details of creating this delightful dinner.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef sirloin, cut into 2-inch strips
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, or to taste
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cube beef bouillon
- ¼ cup hot water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ 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
Preparation:
Step 1: Season the Beef
Start by sprinkling the strips of beef sirloin with garlic powder. This will infuse the meat with a lovely garlic flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. You can adjust the amount according to your taste preference.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef strips to the skillet and sear them for about 5 minutes on each side, or until they develop a nice brown crust. This step locks in the flavors and ensures that the beef stays juicy during the slow cooking process. Once seared, transfer the beef to the crock pot.
Step 3: Dissolve the Bouillon
In a separate container, mix the beef bouillon cube with hot water until dissolved. This homemade broth adds depth of taste to your pepper steak. After the bouillon is dissolved, mix in the cornstarch until fully combined. This will help thicken the sauce as it cooks in the crock pot.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Pour the bouillon-cornstarch mixture into the crock pot over the seared beef. Add the chopped onion, green bell peppers, stewed tomatoes (with their juice), soy sauce, white sugar, and salt. Stir everything together gently to combine the ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Cook
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on high for 3 to 4 hours, or on low for 6 to 8 hours. The longer you cook it, the more tender the beef will become. Stir occasionally if possible, to ensure that all ingredients are well mixed and evenly heated.
COOKING Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This dish scores a perfect five stars for its ease of preparation, flavor, and satisfaction. It’s a dependable recipe that yields delicious results every time.
Serving Suggestions:
Crock Pot Pepper Steak pairs beautifully with steamed rice or fluffy mashed potatoes. For a healthier option, serve it over a bed of quinoa or cauliflower rice. You can also garnish your finished dish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for added color and flavor. Crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips:
- Ensure the beef is cut evenly to promote uniform cooking.
- Feel free to experiment with different colored bell peppers or add other vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for more variety.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days and make a fantastic next-day lunch.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
3 to 8 hours (depending on the heat setting)
Total Time:
3 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
Crock Pot Pepper Steak is an easy, flavorful dish that is perfect for busy families or anyone looking to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal with minimal effort. The slow-cooking method results in tender beef and savory sauce that’s bursting with flavor. In just a few simple steps, you can set it and forget it, allowing you to focus on other tasks while your meal cooks to perfection!
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use a different cut of meat instead of sirloin?
Absolutely! Flank steak or chuck roast can also work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
2. What can I use instead of beef bouillon?
You can substitute with homemade beef broth or stock if you prefer. Adjust the sodium content accordingly, since bouillon cubes can be quite salty.
3. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari in place of regular soy sauce, and ensure that your beef bouillon is gluten-free.
4. How can I make this dish spicier?
For added heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a sliced jalapeño to the crock pot along with the other vegetables.
5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just be sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your flavorful, easy Crock Pot Pepper Steak – a dish that’s sure to bring comfort and satisfaction to your dining table!
