5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pepper Steak (Tender & Flavorful)
This 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is a classic takeout-style dinner made easy in the crockpot. Tender strips of beef cook low and slow in a savory-slightly-sweet soy sauce gravy with bell peppers and onions, creating a comforting, family-friendly meal that’s perfect for busy days.
Serve it over rice or noodles and let the slow cooker do all the work—this is one of those recipes that tastes even better than it looks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Only 5 main ingredients
Tender, juicy beef every time
Classic pepper steak flavor without stovetop cooking
Easy to customize for picky eaters
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
2 pounds beef sirloin or flank steak, sliced into thin strips
2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
1 medium onion, sliced (optional but recommended)
¾ cup low-sodium soy sauce
½ cup beef broth
2 tablespoons brown sugar
Optional
2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
Cooked rice or noodles, for serving (not counted in the 5 ingredients)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add Beef to the Slow Cooker
Place the sliced beef strips in the bottom of the slow cooker, spreading them out evenly.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Layer the sliced bell peppers and onion (if using) over the beef. No stirring needed—everything will cook down together.
Step 3: Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, beef broth, and brown sugar until the sugar is mostly dissolved. This creates a savory-sweet sauce that tenderizes the beef as it cooks.
Step 4: Pour Sauce Over Ingredients
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker, making sure everything is lightly coated.
Step 5: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover and cook:
LOW: 6–8 hours
HIGH: 3–4 hours
The beef should be fork-tender, and the peppers soft but not mushy.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, about 20 minutes before serving, whisk the cornstarch with 2–3 tablespoons cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on HIGH for 15–20 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
Step 7: Taste and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—add a splash more soy sauce for saltiness or a pinch of brown sugar for sweetness. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles, spooning extra sauce over the top.
Variations & Helpful Tips
For picky eaters: Use fewer peppers and more beef, or serve peppers on the side
Sweeter version: Use red, yellow, or orange bell peppers and add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar
Lighter option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and trim visible fat from the beef
Extra flavor boost: Add minced garlic or grated ginger (optional upgrade)
No onions? Skip them—no other changes needed
Stretch the meal: Add thawed frozen stir-fry vegetables during the last 30–45 minutes
Feeding a crowd: This recipe doubles easily; just use a larger slow cooker and add a splash more broth if needed
Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a little broth if needed
Final Thoughts
This 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Pepper Steak is an easy, comforting dinner that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anytime you’re craving a classic takeout-style meal made at home.