Big Batch Crock Pot Pepper Steak

Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
• Total Time: About 7 hours
• Servings: 10–12 generous portions

Ingredients

• 4 lbs beef sirloin or round steak, sliced into thin strips
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 4 large bell peppers (mix of red, green, and yellow), sliced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed beef broth
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/3 cup cornstarch (for thickening)
• 1/2 cup water (for cornstarch mixture)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger (optional but adds great flavor)
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat:
   Slice beef into thin strips. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat and sear beef in batches until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pan — browning adds depth of flavor.
2. Assemble in the Crock Pot:
   Add browned beef, sliced onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic into the crock pot.
3. Mix the Sauce:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, ginger, salt, and black pepper. Pour over the meat and veggies.
4. Cook:

• On Low: 6–7 hours
• On High: 3–4 hours
  Stir occasionally if possible.

1. Thicken the Sauce:
   In the last 30 minutes, mix cornstarch and water into a smooth slurry. Stir it into the crock pot and cook uncovered for 20–30 minutes until sauce thickens.
2. Serve:
   Serve hot over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.

History

Pepper Steak originated from Chinese-American cuisine in the mid-20th century. It’s inspired by Chinese stir-fry techniques but adapted to Western tastes using bell peppers and a savory soy-based sauce. The slow cooker version became popular in the 1970s when crock pots gained fame for easy, set-it-and-forget-it meals.

Benefits

• High in protein and iron from beef.
• Loaded with vitamin C from bell peppers.
• Perfect for meal prepping — reheats beautifully.
• Budget-friendly and feeds a crowd.

Formation

This dish layers flavor development:

1. Browning beef for caramelized flavor.
2. Slow simmering for tender texture.
3. Thickening sauce for a glossy, restaurant-quality finish.

Pepper Steak Lovers Say

“It tastes like takeout but better!”
“My family requests this every Sunday.”
“The sauce over jasmine rice is irresistible.”

Nutrition (per serving)**

(approximate for 10 servings)

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 35g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 920mg

Conclusion**

Big-Batch Crock Pot Pepper Steak is the ultimate comfort food — savory, tender, and full of rich flavors. Whether for family dinners or gatherings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with minimal effort and maximum taste