Crockpot Pepper Steak: A Simple, Flavorful Recipe for Busy Weeknights
Are you looking for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner that requires minimal effort? Look no further than this Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe! This recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone who wants a hearty, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, resulting in incredibly tender beef and a rich, savory sauce.
What You'll Need:
This recipe calls for readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for a spontaneous meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 green bell peppers, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
This Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. The slow cooking process ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender.
Step 1: Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended):
For extra flavor, begin by searing the beef cubes in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step helps to brown the meat and develop a richer flavor. You don't need to cook it through; just sear it on all sides.
Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker:
Place the seared beef cubes (or unseared if skipping the searing step) in your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, sliced green bell peppers, and sliced red bell peppers on top.
Step 3: Combine the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved to avoid lumps in your sauce.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection:
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender.
Step 5: Thicken (Optional):
If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid and whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch before adding it back to the slow cooker. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes on low.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile dish pairs perfectly with various sides. Consider serving your Crockpot Pepper Steak with:
- Mashed potatoes
- Rice
- Egg noodles
- Roasted vegetables
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or celery.
- Make it a complete meal: Toss in some potatoes or carrots during the last hour of cooking.
- Use different cuts of beef: While stew meat is ideal, you can also use chuck roast or other tough cuts of beef.
This Crockpot Pepper Steak recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a simple, flavorful, and convenient meal perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
