5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pepper Steak

Description

This 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is an easy, comforting dinner made with tender strips of beef, colorful bell peppers, savory brown gravy, onion soup mix, and soy sauce. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming simple pantry staples into a flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles for a complete family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced into thin strips
2 bell peppers (1 green and 1 red), sliced
1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
1 packet (0.87 ounce) brown gravy mix
¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce

Optional Ingredients (Not Included in the 5)

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) for thicker gravy
Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions

Step 1

Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain.

Step 2

Place the sliced peppers in the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 3

Add the beef on top of the peppers.

Step 4

Sprinkle the onion soup mix and brown gravy mix evenly over the beef.

Step 5

Pour the soy sauce over everything.

Step 6

Cover and cook:

Low: 6–8 hours
High: 3–4 hours

Step 7

If you’d like a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.

Step 8

Serve hot over steamed rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes.

Recipe Notes

Flank steak and sirloin both work well.
Slice the beef thinly for maximum tenderness.
Red, yellow, and orange peppers add natural sweetness.
Low-sodium soy sauce helps keep the dish from becoming overly salty.
The peppers become very soft after long cooking; add them halfway through if you prefer firmer peppers.

Helpful Tips

Brown the beef before slow cooking for extra flavor (optional).
Freeze sliced beef for about 20 minutes before cutting for easier slicing.
Don’t lift the slow cooker lid often—it releases heat and increases cooking time.
Let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens naturally.
Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds for extra freshness.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

6–8 hours (Low)

3–4 hours (High)

Total Time

Approximately 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes

Servings

Serves 6

Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 295
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 13g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 860mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Iron: 18% DV
Potassium: 540mg

Nutrition values are approximate and vary depending on the ingredients used.

Health Benefits

High in protein: Supports muscle maintenance and keeps you feeling full.
Rich in iron: Beef provides iron that helps transport oxygen throughout the body.
Vitamin C source: Bell peppers contribute vitamin C, supporting immune health.
Minimal ingredients: Quick to prepare with pantry-friendly staples.
Slow cooking: Produces tender beef without the need for added fats.
Customizable: Easy to add vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or broccoli.

Serving Suggestions

Steamed white rice
Brown rice
Buttered egg noodles
Mashed potatoes
Cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option
Steamed broccoli or green beans on the side

Storage

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes. Sirloin, flank steak, chuck roast, or round steak all work well.

2. Can I cook it on High?

Yes. Cook on High for 3–4 hours or Low for 6–8 hours.

3. Why is my beef tough?

It may need more cooking time. Tough cuts become tender with longer slow cooking, especially on the Low setting.

4. Can I add onions?

Absolutely. One sliced onion pairs perfectly with the peppers.

5. How do I make the sauce thicker?

Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it in during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.

6. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes. Use gluten-free onion soup mix, gluten-free brown gravy mix, and gluten-free tamari or soy sauce.

7. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes. Mushrooms, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas are excellent additions.

8. Is this recipe spicy?

No. It’s savory and mild. Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños if you prefer heat.

9. Can I prepare it the night before?

Yes. Assemble all ingredients in the slow cooker insert, refrigerate overnight, and start cooking the next day.

10. What is the best side dish?

Steamed rice is the classic choice, but mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or cauliflower rice are also delicious options.