Introduction

Have you ever wondered how to create a tender and flavorful meal with minimal effort? Slow Cooker Pepper Steak in Savory Onion Gravy is not only an answer but a culinary masterpiece that could simplify your weeknight dinners. This dish combines the succulent flavors of beef, bell peppers, and a rich onion gravy, transforming your cooking experience. Best of all, this sumptuous meal takes advantage of your slow cooker, allowing busy individuals to enjoy home-cooked goodness without hours spent in the kitchen.

Ingredients List

To prepare this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Pepper Steak in Savory Onion Gravy, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds beef steak (such as flank or sirloin), sliced thinly against the grain
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or for a lighter option, consider olive oil)
• 1 large onion, sliced thinly, releasing its aromatic sweetness
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color, but a mix is visually appealing)
• 1 cup beef broth or stock for deep flavor
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce for that umami punch
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (to thicken the gravy)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar, balancing flavors beautifully
• Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to substitute the steak with chicken or a plant-based protein for a different twist. You can also swap the bell pepper for seasonal vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms based on your palette.

Timing

Preparation and cooking do not need to be cumbersome! Here’s a breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your slow cooker
• Total Time: 6-8 hours and 15 minutes, which is 20% less time than the average recipe when you use the slow cooker effectively.

Using a slow cooker allows for hands-free cooking, giving you the freedom to focus on other tasks while your meal cooks to perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Begin by slicing your beef steak thinly against the grain. This technique ensures tender slices that absorb the flavors of the gravy beautifully.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef slices in batches for about 2-3 minutes until browned. This step enhances the meat’s flavor and texture.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the seared beef to your slow cooker. Layer the sliced onion and bell pepper on top, followed by the beef broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, brown sugar, and seasonings. Stir gently to mix.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become incredibly tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Gravy

Once the cooking time is over, remove the lid and stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Pepper Steak over a bed of steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch.

Nutritional Information

This dish is not just delicious; it can also be nutritious. Below is a breakdown per serving (estimated based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 700mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 12g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 30g

These values offer a wholesome profile without compromising on flavor.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

Elevate the nutritional profile of your Pepper Steak with the following alternatives:

• Opt for lean cuts of meat such as eye of round or sirloin.
• Substitute regular soy sauce for low-sodium soy sauce to cut down on sodium.
• Incorporate additional vegetables like broccoli or carrots for added nutrients.
• Replace brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for natural sweetness.

These suggestions ensure that you create a balanced dish without sacrificing taste.

Serving Suggestions

Imagine the tantalizing aromas wafting through your home as you present this vibrant dish to your dinner table. Here are some creative serving ideas:

• Serve over fluffy white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Pair with crusty garlic bread to soak up the savory onion gravy.
• Offer a side of steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for added color and nutrition.

Don’t hesitate to get creative! Add crushed red pepper flakes for some heat or lemon zest for a fresh twist.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While making Slow Cooker Pepper Steak, be aware of common pitfalls:

• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: This can prevent proper cooking. Ensure you have enough space for the ingredients to stew comfortably.
• Skipping the Searing Step: It may be tempting to skip this, but searing the beef adds a depth of flavor crucial for a fantastic outcome.
• Using High-Sodium Ingredients: Rely on low-sodium options to keep the dish heart-healthy without compromising flavor.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you achieve the ultimate Pepper Steak experience!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Planning on having leftovers? Here’s how to store your Pepper Steak:

• Let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore moisture and flavor.

These steps will ensure you enjoy your Pepper Steak well beyond the first meal!

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak in Savory Onion Gravy is an effortless dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With tender cuts of beef and rich flavors blending seamlessly, this recipe delivers satisfaction with minimal effort. Try it today and let us know your thoughts!

Don’t forget to share your feedback in the review section, leave a comment, or subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

A: Can I make this recipe with chicken instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute the beef with chicken. Chicken breast or thighs are great alternatives, and they will cook just as well in the slow cooker.

B: How do I know when the beef is done cooking?

The beef is done when it becomes tender and easy to shred with a fork. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach at least 145°F for safety.

C: Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to include more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or snap peas for added nutrition and flavor.

D: What can I use instead of cornstarch to thicken the gravy?

Substituting cornstarch with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch can achieve the same thickening effect. Alternatively, you can blend in a bit of mashed potato or use a roux made from flour and butter.

E: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Use plant-based protein options like tofu or seitan, and incorporate more vegetables. Vegetable broth can replace beef broth for a fully vegetarian dish.

Irresistible Slow Cooker Pepper Steak in Savory Onion Gravy

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• Author: jamal
• Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Savor tender slow cooker pepper steak smothered in rich onion gravy. Perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. Easy, delicious, and satisfying!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 1/2 pounds of beef steak (such as flank or sirloin), sliced thinly against the grain

2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

1 large onion, sliced thinly

1 bell pepper, sliced

1 cup of beef broth or stock

3 tablespoons of soy sauce

1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water

1 teaspoon of garlic powder

1 tablespoon of brown sugar

Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

Step 1: Begin by slicing your beef steak thinly against the grain. This technique ensures tender slices that absorb the flavors of the gravy beautifully.

Step 2: Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef slices in batches for about 2-3 minutes until browned. This step enhances the meat’s flavor and texture.

Step 3: Add the seared beef to your slow cooker. Layer the sliced onion and bell pepper on top, followed by the beef broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, brown sugar, and seasonings. Stir gently to mix.

Step 4: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become incredibly tender.

Step 5: Once the cooking time is over, remove the lid and stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve your Pepper Steak over a bed of steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even noodles! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch.

Notes

Slow Cooker Pepper Steak in Savory Onion Gravy is a tender and flavorful dish that combines beef, bell peppers, and a rich onion gravy, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 4g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 30g