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Dump and Go Crock Pot Pepper Steak - Easy, Cozy, Weeknight Comfort

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Beef: 2 pounds flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
  • Bell peppers: 3 peppers (any colors you like), sliced into strips
  • Onion: 1 medium yellow or white onion, sliced
  • Garlic: 3–4 cloves, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
  • Ginger: 1 tablespoon fresh grated (or 1 teaspoon ground ginger)
  • Low-sodium soy sauce: 1/2 cup
  • Beef broth: 1 cup (low sodium preferred)
  • Brown sugar or honey: 2 tablespoons
  • Rice vinegar: 1 tablespoon (or apple cider vinegar)
  • Sesame oil: 1 teaspoon (optional, for depth)
  • Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4–1/2 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • Cornstarch: 2 tablespoons (for thickening)
  • Water: 2 tablespoons (to mix with cornstarch)
  • Salt and pepper: To taste
  • Green onions and sesame seeds: For garnish (optional)
  • Cooked rice or noodles: For serving

Instructions
 

  • Prep the beef and veggies: Slice the beef into thin strips against the grain. Slice bell peppers and onion into thin strips. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger if using fresh.
  • Layer in the crock pot: Add the sliced onion and peppers to the slow cooker first. Place the beef strips on top.
  • Mix the sauce: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar (or honey), rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.
  • Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 5–6 hours or High for 2.5–3 hours, until the beef is tender.
  • Thicken the sauce: Stir cornstarch and water together to make a slurry. Pour it into the slow cooker during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking. Stir gently and let the sauce thicken.
  • Season and serve: Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Serve over steamed rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if you like.