Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorite go-to meals: the Flank Steak Crock Pot Recipe. Oh boy, I’ve made this dish so many times that I practically have it memorized! Every time I pull it out of the slow cooker, my friends and family can’t help but exclaim how tender and flavorful it is. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer when it comes to weeknight dinners. If you’re looking for something cozy and delicious that will impress everyone at the dinner table, you’re in the right place!
Why You’ll Love This Flank Steak Crock Pot Recipe
- Effortless Preparation: Just toss everything in the crock pot, set it, and forget it!
- Unbelievable Flavor: The seasoning and slow cooking meld together for a taste that’s out of this world.
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tenderness: The low and slow method transforms flank steak into a fork-tender delight.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it up with some sides, and it looks as good as it tastes!
The Secret to Perfect Flank Steak
The magic of this Flank Steak Crock Pot Recipe lies in the marinade and the slow cooking process. I always marinate the steak overnight, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply into the meat. You can use a simple mix of soy sauce, garlic, and your favorite herbs. This not only adds depth of flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. Trust me, letting it marinate is a crucial step you don’t want to skip! And once it’s in the crock pot, the low heat does the rest of the work for you, ensuring that the steak comes out juicy and succulent every time.
Rave Reviews from Friends and Followers
“This flank steak was the highlight of our dinner! I couldn’t believe how tender it turned out. Everyone was asking for seconds!” – Emily R.
“I’m not usually a fan of flank steak, but this recipe changed my mind! So easy and packed with flavor!” – Mark T.
“I made this for a family gathering, and it was a hit! My cousin couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was!” – Sarah L.
Creative Variations to Try
- Spicy Chipotle Flank Steak: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to give it a smoky kick.
- Honey Garlic Flank Steak: Mix honey with garlic for a sweet and savory twist.
- Italian Herb Flank Steak: Use Italian seasoning with a splash of balsamic vinegar for an aromatic flavor.
- BBQ Flank Steak: Swap out the marinade for your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy profile.
- Bonus: Try adding some sliced onions and bell peppers to the pot for a complete meal in one!
FAQs – All Your Questions Answered!
Can I use a different cut of meat? Yes! While flank steak is ideal, you can substitute it with skirt steak or chuck roast, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary.
How do I store leftovers? Allow any leftovers to cool down, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this dish? Absolutely! Just make sure to freeze it in portions, and it can last for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with flank steak? Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a fresh salad make excellent sides!
Storage/Serving Tips
- Store leftovers in airtight containers to keep them fresh.
- This dish can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze it and reheat when you’re ready for a cozy meal.
- Serve with mashed potatoes or over rice to soak up all those delicious juices.
Perfect Occasions for Flank Steak Crock Pot Recipe
- Comforting family dinners on cold nights.
- Casual gatherings with friends where everyone can help themselves.
- Meal prepping for busy weeks ahead.
- Game day festivities where you want to impress the crowd.
- Celebrating a special occasion with a hearty meal.
The Complete Recipe
Now that I’ve whetted your appetite, let’s dive into the juicy details of this Flank Steak Crock Pot Recipe!
Flank Steak Crock Pot Recipe
Ingredients
- 2-3 pounds flank steak
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth
Tip: For extra flavor, you can add chopped fresh herbs or your favorite spices to the marinade!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Steak
In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, onion powder, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Place the flank steak in a resealable bag or a dish, pouring the marinade over it. Seal or cover and refrigerate overnight for the best flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Remove the flank steak from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place it in the slow cooker. Pour the beef broth and reserved marinade over the steak. This helps create a rich sauce as it cooks.
Step 3: Set the Cooking Time
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer, the better! You want that steak to be fork-tender.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the steak from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the meat with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker to soak up more juices. Serve it warm over rice or alongside your favorite sides.
Nutrition info: Approximately 300 calories per serving (based on 6 servings), with protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! This Flank Steak Crock Pot Recipe is not just a meal; it’s a memory maker. The tender, flavorful steak will leave your family and friends craving more, and the ease of preparation means you can focus on what really matters—enjoying time with your loved ones. I encourage you to try this recipe; you won’t be disappointed! Cozy up with a bowl of this deliciousness and savor every bite.