The Ultimate Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

For the Pepper Steak:
2 lbs beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced into strips
2 bell peppers, sliced into thin strips (use red, green, or a mix)
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups beef broth
3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (for a hint of sweetness)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the beef)

For Serving:
Cooked white rice, brown rice, or egg noodles
Chopped green onions for garnish
Sesame seeds (optional)

Prepare the Ingredients:
Slice the steak into thin strips, cutting against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Chop the bell peppers and onions into thin strips.
Mince the garlic finely.

Prepare the cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with cold water.

Brown the Beef (Optional but Recommended):
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced steak and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
Transfer the beef to the crock pot.

Add the Vegetables & Seasonings:
Add sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic to the crock pot.
Sprinkle with black pepper, salt, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Add the Sauces & Liquid:
Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and drained diced tomatoes.
Stir in brown sugar and dried oregano.

Slow Cook to Perfection:
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
The beef should be tender, and the flavors should be well combined.

Thicken the Sauce:
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the cornstarch slurry.
Stir well and let cook until the sauce thickens.

Serve & Enjoy:
Spoon the pepper steak over cooked rice or noodles.

Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.


Notes
Variations
Spicy Pepper Steak: Add extra red pepper flakes or Sriracha.

Mushroom Pepper Steak: Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

Teriyaki Pepper Steak: Swap soy sauce for teriyaki sauce.

Keto-Friendly: Serve over cauliflower rice and skip the cornstarch.

Do not overcook the bell peppers; add them later if you prefer them crisper.

Cut steak against the grain to ensure tenderness.

Use a mix of bell peppers for vibrant color and flavor.

Adjust seasoning according to your taste.

Serving Suggestion
Serve over steamed white or brown rice.
Try it over buttery mashed potatoes.
Enjoy with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Pair with a side of roasted vegetables for extra nutrition.

Tips for the Best Pepper Steak
Use high-quality beef for the best texture.
Sear the beef before slow cooking for added depth of flavor.
Add peppers towards the end if you prefer them firmer.
Make it in advance—the flavors deepen over time.