We absolutely love flat iron steak for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture, making it a star in our slow cooker recipes. It’s a cut that’s often overlooked, but when simmered low and slow, it transforms into melt-in-your-mouth goodness that’s perfect for effortless family dinners.
In our take on flat iron steak slow cooker recipes, we’ll guide you through simple steps that deliver big on taste without hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a busy parent or a weekend cook, this method ensures juicy results every time.
Ingredients
To craft our flavorful flat iron steak slow cooker recipe, we select high-quality ingredients that enhance its tender texture and rich taste. Below, we list them in the order of use, with prep notes for precision.
- Flat iron steak: 2 pounds, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 2-inch pieces for even cooking in the slow cooker.
- Onion: 1 medium, diced, to build a savory base as the first layer.
- Garlic cloves: 4, minced, for adding aromatic depth right after the onions.
- Carrots: 3 large, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds, to provide natural sweetness and balance.
- Beef broth: 2 cups, low-sodium, to create a moist cooking environment and infuse moisture.
- Soy sauce: ¼ cup, for a umami boost that complements the steak’s inherent flavors.
- Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons, to add tangy notes and tenderize the meat further.
- Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon, for an earthy herb accent that melds during slow cooking.
- Salt and black pepper: 1 teaspoon each, to taste, for seasoning just before assembling in the slow cooker.
Equipment Needed
Before we dive into preparing our flavorful flat iron steak slow cooker recipe, let’s gather the essential equipment. This setup ensures we handle the ingredients efficiently and achieve tender, juicy results with minimal effort.
- Slow Cooker: We rely on a 6-quart slow cooker as the star of this recipe, allowing us to simmer the flat iron steak low and slow for hours to enhance its rich flavor and tender texture without constant monitoring.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp 8-inch chef’s knife is crucial for precisely cutting the 2 pounds of flat iron steak into 2-inch pieces and dicing the medium onion, ensuring even cooking and quick prep.
- Cutting Board: We use a sturdy, non-slip cutting board to safely chop vegetables like the sliced carrots and minced garlic cloves, keeping our workspace organized and preventing messes.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe’s balance, so we recommend a set of measuring cups for liquids like low-sodium beef broth and spoons for seasonings such as soy sauce and dried thyme.
- Mixing Spoon or Tongs: A long-handled mixing spoon or sturdy tongs help us stir and turn the steak pieces during assembly, promoting even distribution of flavors like Worcestershire sauce and black pepper.
With this equipment in hand, we’re set to transition seamlessly from ingredients to the cooking process, making our flat iron steak slow cooker meal straightforward and delicious.
Instructions
We make preparing flat iron steak in a slow cooker straightforward and delicious, transforming this tender cut into a melt-in-your-mouth meal with minimal effort.
Prepare the Steak
Start by gathering the flat iron steak and other ingredients from our list. Take 2 pounds of trimmed flat iron steak and cut it into 2-inch pieces using a sharp chef’s knife on a sturdy cutting board, ensuring even sizes for uniform cooking and maximum tenderness. Next, dice one medium onion into small pieces for even flavor distribution, mince 3 garlic cloves to release their aromatic essence, and slice 2 large carrots into thin rounds to add a subtle crunch and sweetness. In a bowl, combine 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and season with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper, stirring until well mixed—this mixture will infuse the steak with rich, savory depth that enhances its natural juiciness.
Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Layer the prepared ingredients into your 6-quart slow cooker for optimal flavor infusion. Place the cut flat iron steak pieces at the bottom, then add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrots on top to create a flavorful base. Pour the beef broth mixture evenly over everything, ensuring the steak is fully submerged for even cooking and to lock in moisture. Use tongs to gently toss the contents, allowing the seasonings to coat each piece thoroughly—this step builds a harmonious blend of aromas that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible savory scent as it simmers.
Cook the Steak
Set your slow cooker to low heat and cook the flat iron steak for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the meat reaches fork-tender perfection and easily shreds with a gentle pull. Stir occasionally with a mixing spoon to prevent sticking and promote even distribution of flavors, watching as the steak absorbs the rich broth and develops a deep, beefy taste with hints of garlic and thyme. For food safety, ensure the internal temperature hits at least 145°F—monitored with a meat thermometer—for a juicy, perfectly tender result that showcases the steak’s inherent marbling.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, use tongs to transfer the flat iron steak and vegetables to a serving platter, spooning some of the flavorful cooking juices over the top for added moisture and taste. Serve immediately with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed greens to complement the steak’s tender texture and robust flavors, inviting everyone to savor the melt-in-your-mouth bites and the warm, comforting aroma that makes this a family favorite.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To maximize convenience with our flat iron steak slow cooker recipe, we offer practical strategies for preparing components in advance and storing the finished dish. This ensures you can enjoy tender, flavorful results even on the busiest days.
Make-Ahead Tips
We love simplifying meal prep by handling tasks ahead of time, allowing the rich flavors of the flat iron steak to develop fully without last-minute rushes. Here’s how to get started:
- Prep Ingredients the Night Before: Chop the medium onion, mince the garlic cloves, and slice the carrots up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to preserve their fresh crunch and enhance the steak’s savory profile when combined.
- Assemble the Slow Cooker: For even easier cooking, layer the trimmed flat iron steak pieces, prepped vegetables, low-sodium beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme directly into your 6-quart slow cooker insert. Cover and refrigerate the assembled pot for up to 12 hours. Remember: Always use this method with raw ingredients only, as it keeps the steak’s tender texture intact while minimizing prep time on the day of cooking.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have time, combine the flat iron steak with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings in a sealed bag or container. Let it marinate in the fridge for 1 to 2 hours or overnight. This step infuses the meat with bold, aromatic notes that make every bite of the slow-cooked dish even more irresistible.
By following these make-ahead steps, we help you turn a simple family dinner into a stress-free tradition.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the succulent tenderness and rich taste of your cooked flat iron steak. We recommend these methods to keep your leftovers safe and delicious for future meals.
- Refrigeration: Once the steak has cooled to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking), transfer it along with any juices and vegetables to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator, where it will retain its fork-tender quality for up to 3-4 days. This approach prevents bacterial growth while preserving the steak’s hearty, comforting flavors.
- Freezing for Longer-Term Storage: For meals that stretch beyond a few days, freeze the cooled steak in freezer-safe bags or containers. Portion it into servings to avoid waste, and include some of the cooking liquids to lock in moisture. Frozen flat iron steak can be stored for up to 3 months without losing its melt-in-your-mouth texture.
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips for Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigeration | 3-4 days | Use airtight containers; reheat gently to avoid drying out the steak’s tender fibers. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Label with dates; thaw in the refrigerator overnight for safe, even defrosting. |
- Reheating Instructions: When you’re ready to enjoy stored flat iron steak, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator if needed. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of beef broth to restore its juicy consistency, or warm in the microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes. This keeps the steak’s bold flavors vibrant and ensures it pairs perfectly with sides like mashed potatoes or steamed greens from our earlier steps.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring how flat iron steak transforms in a slow cooker, turning a simple cut into a tender family favorite. It’s all about that effortless flavor that brings everyone together at the table.
Our tips make it easy to whip up meals that save time without skimping on taste, so grab your slow cooker and enjoy the rewards of a hearty, homemade dinner tonight.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is flat iron steak and why is it great for a slow cooker?
Flat iron steak is a flavorful, tender cut from the shoulder chuck, often overlooked but perfect for slow cooking. It becomes incredibly juicy and soft when simmered low and slow, making it ideal for busy families. This method breaks down the meat’s fibers, enhancing its rich taste without much effort.
What ingredients are needed for flat iron steak slow cooker recipe?
You’ll need 2 pounds of trimmed flat iron steak cut into 2-inch pieces, a medium diced onion, minced garlic cloves, sliced carrots, low-sodium beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. These simple ingredients enhance the steak’s natural flavors for a savory meal.
What equipment is required for this slow cooker recipe?
A 6-quart slow cooker is essential for even simmering. You’ll also need a sharp chef’s knife and sturdy cutting board for prep, plus measuring cups, spoons, and a mixing spoon or tongs for stirring. This basic setup ensures precise and easy preparation.
How do I prepare flat iron steak in a slow cooker?
Start by cutting the steak and veggies. Layer them in the slow cooker with broth, sauces, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until fork-tender. Stir occasionally for even cooking. It’s a straightforward process for delicious results.
How long does it take to cook flat iron steak in a slow cooker?
Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or high heat for 3 to 4 hours. This slow method tenderizes the meat perfectly, allowing flavors to meld without overcooking. Check for doneness by ensuring it’s fork-tender.
What are some serving suggestions for flat iron steak slow cooker dish?
Pair the tender steak with sides like mashed potatoes, steamed greens, or rice to soak up the savory juices. It makes a comforting family dinner and works well with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time, and how do I store leftovers?
Yes, prep ingredients the night before or marinate the steak for extra flavor. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep it juicy and flavorful.