This Best-Ever Pepper Steak is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Tender beef stew meat, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich gravy come together in this slow-cooked masterpiece. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is both easy to prepare and packed with mouthwatering flavors.
Ingredients
- 16 oz beef stew meat: Choose well-marbled pieces for tender, flavorful results.
- 2 bell peppers: Use any combination of red, green, yellow, or orange for a colorful presentation. Slice into strips.
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil: For browning the meat and sautéing the vegetables.
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory depth to the dish.
- 1 tsp minced garlic: Fresh or jarred garlic works. This enhances the dish with an aromatic kick.
- 1 can beef broth (14-15 oz): Forms the base of the rich gravy.
- 1 can stewed tomatoes (14-15 oz): Use tomatoes with juice for added flavor.
- 1 tsp seasoned salt: Balances the flavors and seasons the meat. Adjust to taste.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the gravy.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and seasoned salt.
- Coat the beef stew meat thoroughly in the mixture. This step helps to seal in the juices while browning.
Step 2: Brown the Meat and Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the floured meat, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat begins to brown and the peppers soften slightly.
- Remove the meat and peppers from the skillet and transfer them to a lined slow cooker, leaving the grease in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- In the same skillet, add the stewed tomatoes with their juice and 1 can of beef broth.
- Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
- Gradually whisk in the remaining flour (from Step 1) to thicken the sauce. Stir constantly to prevent lumps, creating a smooth gravy.
- Pour the gravy over the meat and peppers in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 8 hours until the beef is tender and infused with the rich flavors of the sauce.
- If pressed for time, you can cook on high heat for 4-5 hours, but low heat yields the most tender meat.
Serving Suggestions
This pepper steak pairs wonderfully with:
- Steamed White or Brown Rice: Perfect for soaking up the rich gravy.
- Mashed Potatoes: A creamy, hearty base for the flavorful meat.
- Egg Noodles: A satisfying alternative that holds up well under the sauce.
- Crusty Bread: For dipping and savoring every drop of the delicious gravy.
Tips for Success
- Vegetable Variety: For added texture and flavor, toss in sliced onions or mushrooms along with the bell peppers.
- Thicker Gravy: If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water into the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Freezing and Reheating: This dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in a slow cooker.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of soy sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the hard work, making this an ideal set-it-and-forget-it meal.
- Rich and Comforting: Tender beef and a savory gravy ensure every bite is satisfying.
- Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables and adjust seasonings to suit your taste.
Switch up your dinner routine with this Best-Ever Pepper Steak, and enjoy a flavorful, fuss-free meal that feels like a treat every time!