Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this pepper steak will become a favorite.
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Only 4 ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Tender and savory. Rich, satisfying, and delicious.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves pepper steak.
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Budget-friendly. Round steak, peppers, and soup are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 4
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1 1/2 pounds inexpensive beef steak (such as round steak or chuck steak), cut into 1/2-inch-thick strips
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2 large bell peppers (1 green and 1 red), seeded and sliced into thin strips
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2 (10.5-ounce) cans condensed cream of mushroom soup
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1 (1-ounce) packet dry onion soup mix
Ingredient Notes
Beef steak: Use round steak or chuck steak. Cut it into thin strips.
Bell peppers: Use green and red bell peppers. Slice them into thin strips.
Cream of mushroom soup: Creates the creamy gravy base.
Onion soup mix: Adds savory depth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Layer the Peppers
Place the sliced bell peppers in an even layer on the bottom of a 4- to 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the Beef
Lay the beef strips on top of the peppers, spreading them out as much as possible.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup and the dry onion soup mix until smooth.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour the soup mixture evenly over the beef and peppers.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, until the beef is very tender and the peppers are soft.
Step 6: Serve
Gently stir the contents of the slow cooker. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles.
How to Serve Pepper Steak
This tender, savory steak is delicious on its own, but the right sides make it a complete meal.
Over Rice: White rice or jasmine rice absorbs the gravy.
With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes are a classic pairing.
With Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles catch the gravy.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the gravy.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Different Peppers: Use yellow or orange bell peppers.
Make It with Onions: Add sliced onions.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It with Worcestershire Sauce: Add a splash for extra flavor.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soup and onion mix.
Make It in a Dutch Oven: Simmer on the stove for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Let the steak rest before serving. This keeps it tender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Pork or chicken can be used.
Can I use a different soup?
Yes. Cream of chicken or celery soup can be used.
Can I use a different onion mix?
Yes. Vegetable or mushroom soup mix can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The meat released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add mushrooms or onions.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
Can I use boneless chicken?
Yes. Substitute chicken for the beef.
The Beauty of Simple Slow Cooker Meals
There is something deeply satisfying about a warm, tender steak dinner that comes together with almost no effort. It is the kind of food that makes people happy. This pepper steak is a celebration of all those things.
Keep beef in your freezer. Keep peppers, soup, and onion mix in your pantry and fridge. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours on LOW or 3 1/2–4 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 7 to 8 hours
Yield: 4 servings