Preparation & Cooking Time
– Preparation time: 15 minutes
– Cooking time: 4–5 hours on LOW
– Alternative: 2–3 hours on HIGH
– Total time: Approximately 4 hours 15 minutes
– Servings: 6
– Difficulty: Easy
– Cooking method: Slow cooker
Ingredients
Main ingredients
– 2 pounds (900 g) lean ground beef
– 1 large yellow onion, diced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (if needed)
Seasonings
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
Sauce ingredients
– ½ cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional)
For serving
– 4–5 cups cooked white rice
– Fresh chopped parsley
– Extra diced bell peppers
– Optional shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the vegetables
Wash the bell peppers thoroughly.
Remove the stems and seeds.
Dice the peppers into small, evenly sized pieces.
Peel and dice the onion.
Set the vegetables aside.
Step 2: Prepare the ground beef
For the best flavor and texture, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and break it into small pieces using a wooden spoon.
Cook for approximately 6–8 minutes until browned.
Drain excess grease.
Food safety tip: Browning first is recommended. Do not rely on the slow cooker to safely cook raw ground beef in a large compact mass.
Step 3: Transfer to the slow cooker
Place the browned ground beef into a 5–6 quart slow cooker.
Spread it evenly across the bottom.
Step 4: Add the onions
Add the diced onions over the ground beef.
Mix gently to distribute them throughout the meat.
Step 5: Add the bell peppers
Add the diced red and green bell peppers.
Stir everything together until the vegetables are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Add the seasonings
Sprinkle over the mixture:
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Paprika
– Salt
– Black pepper
– Italian seasoning
– Chili powder
Stir thoroughly.
Step 7: Prepare the sauce
In a small bowl, combine:
– Beef broth
– Worcestershire sauce
– Tomato paste
– Soy sauce
– Brown sugar
Whisk until smooth.
Step 8: Pour in the sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and vegetables.
Stir gently so the sauce coats everything evenly.
Step 9: Slow cook
Cover with the slow cooker’s lid.
Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Stir once if convenient.
The onions should become tender, the peppers soft, and the beef flavorful.
Ensure the mixture reaches a safe temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Step 10: Check consistency
Remove the lid and stir the mixture.
If there is excess liquid, cook uncovered for another 15–20 minutes, if your slow cooker instructions allow.
For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir it into the mixture. Cook until thickened.
Step 11: Prepare the rice
While the beef finishes cooking, prepare white rice according to the package instructions.
Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
Step 12: Serve
Place a generous portion of warm rice into serving bowls.
Spoon the slow-cooked ground beef, peppers, and onions over the rice.
Garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve immediately while hot.
Serving Suggestions
This savory beef mixture pairs wonderfully with:
– Steamed white rice
– Brown rice
– Mashed potatoes
– Buttered noodles
– Garlic bread
– Roasted broccoli
– Green beans
– Fresh garden salad
– Warm tortillas
Nutritional Information
Estimated values per serving, including rice, based on 6 servings.
Nutrient Amount
Calories 490 kcal
Protein 31 g
Carbohydrates 43 g
Fat 20 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Fiber 3 g
Sugar 4 g
Sodium 650 mg
Potassium 650 mg
Calcium 55 mg
Iron 4 mg
Vitamin C 65 mg
Nutrition values are approximate and vary depending on the ground beef fat percentage, broth, sauces, and rice portions.
Quick Nutrition Info (Q/S)
– Protein: Ground beef provides high-quality protein for muscle growth and maintenance.
– Iron: Beef contains heme iron, which helps support healthy red blood cell production.
– Vitamin B12: Beef is an excellent source of vitamin B12, supporting normal nerve function.
– Zinc: Beef provides zinc, which supports immune function.
– Vitamin C: Red bell peppers are rich in vitamin C, which supports immunity and collagen production.
– Vitamin A: Red peppers provide carotenoids that contribute to vitamin A intake.
– Potassium: Bell peppers and beef provide potassium for normal muscle and nerve function.
– Fiber: Onions and bell peppers contribute dietary fiber for digestive health.
Helpful Cooking Tips
1. Choose lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
2. Brown the beef before slow cooking for better flavor.
3. Drain excess fat before transferring it to the Crock-Pot.
4. Dice vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
5. Use red bell peppers for natural sweetness.
6. Add Worcestershire sauce for deeper savory flavor.
7. Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt.
8. Avoid adding too much liquid because vegetables release moisture.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
10. Serve over freshly cooked rice for the best result.
Delicious Recipe Variations
1. Cheesy Ground Beef: Add shredded cheddar cheese during the last 10 minutes.
2. Mexican-Style Beef: Add cumin, chili powder, black beans, and corn.
3. Garlic Butter Beef: Add butter and extra minced garlic.
4. Spicy Pepper Beef: Add jalapeños and red pepper flakes.
5. Tomato Beef: Add one can of diced tomatoes for a richer sauce.
6. Beef Rice Bowls: Serve with rice, avocado, shredded lettuce, and sour cream.
Storage Instructions
– Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
– Freezer: Freeze in airtight portions for up to 3 months.
– Reheating: Heat on the stovetop or microwave until the center reaches 165°F (74°C).
– Store rice separately when possible for better texture.
Allergen Information
– Soy may be present if using soy sauce.
– Wheat may be present in some Worcestershire sauces and soy sauces.
– Check packaged broth and seasonings for hidden allergens.
– Naturally dairy-free if no butter or cheese is added.
Nut Information (Q/S)
Nut type Included?
Peanuts No
Almonds No
Walnuts No
Cashews No
Pistachios No
Pecans No
Hazelnuts No
Other tree nuts No
Nut allergy note: This recipe does not require peanuts or tree nuts. Check packaged sauces, broth, and seasonings for possible cross-contact.
Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Ground Beef with Peppers & Onions over warm fluffy rice!