We’ve always loved how flat iron steak brings bold, beefy flavors to the table, especially when slow-cooked to tender perfection. Originating from the shoulder cut, it’s a budget-friendly option that shines in a Crock Pot, infusing every bite with rich, melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
In our easy recipe, we’ll show you how to create a hassle-free meal that’s ideal for busy days. Whether you’re hosting or just craving comfort food, this dish proves that great taste doesn’t have to mean hours of effort.
Ingredients
In our recipe for Flat Iron Steak in the Crock Pot, we gather simple, high-quality ingredients that enhance the steak’s natural tenderness and flavor. We’ll list them in the order they’re used, with prep notes for clarity.
- Flat Iron Steak: 2 pounds, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 2-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Onion: 1 large, peeled and sliced thinly to build a flavorful base.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced for a robust aroma that infuses the dish.
- Carrots: 4 medium, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds to add sweetness and texture.
- Potatoes: 4 medium Yukon Gold, washed, quartered, and left unpeeled for a hearty, rustic feel.
- Beef Broth: 2 cups, low-sodium, to create a savory cooking liquid.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons, for a tangy depth that complements the steak’s richness.
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon, to boost umami without overwhelming the flavors.
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon, for an earthy herb note that pairs perfectly with slow-cooked meats.
- Salt and Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper, freshly ground, to season to taste at the start.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our flavorful Flat Iron Steak in the Crock Pot recipe seamlessly, we need a few essential tools that ensure precision and ease during the cooking process. These items build on the ingredients we’ve gathered, allowing us to transition smoothly from prep to slow cooking.
Here’s a curated list of the key equipment, organized by their role in the recipe:
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker): Our primary appliance, a 6-quart model works best for this recipe to accommodate the steak and vegetables evenly, delivering tender results through gentle, low-heat cooking.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp, 8-inch blade is ideal for trimming the flat iron steak and slicing onions, carrots, and potatoes quickly and safely.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, large wooden or plastic board provides a stable surface for all prep work, minimizing mess and ensuring hygienic handling of ingredients.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: These accurate tools help us measure liquids like beef broth and seasonings precisely, guaranteeing the perfect balance of flavors in our dish.
- Tongs: Useful for handling the steak when adding it to the Crock Pot or serving, these allow for easy maneuvering without piercing the meat and losing juices.
- Garlic Press (Optional): If we’re mincing garlic by hand isn’t preferred, this tool speeds up the process for that fresh, aromatic touch.
With this equipment on hand, we’re set to move forward efficiently and create a mouthwatering meal that highlights the tenderness of flat iron steak.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through the straightforward steps to prepare a tender, flavorful Flat Iron Steak in the Crock Pot. Follow these precise instructions for a hassle-free meal that highlights the steak’s natural juiciness and depth of flavor.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s ready our ingredients to ensure everything integrates seamlessly for optimal taste and texture. Begin by trimming the 2 pounds of flat iron steak, removing any excess fat or silver skin to promote even tenderness—use a sharp chef’s knife on a sturdy cutting board for safety and precision.
Next, slice one large onion into thin rings to release its sweet aroma, which will enhance the steak’s savory profile. Mince 3 cloves of garlic finely, or use a garlic press for convenience, to add a pungent kick. Then, slice 4 medium carrots into 1-inch pieces for a subtle crunch that complements the steak’s softness. Quarter 4 Yukon Gold potatoes to create bite-sized pieces that absorb the rich broth flavors.
In a small bowl, combine 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth with 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper—stir until well mixed to form a flavorful base that infuses the dish with herbaceous notes.
Cook in the Crock Pot
With our ingredients prepped, we assemble everything in the 6-quart Crock Pot for slow cooking that transforms the flat iron steak into a melt-in-your-mouth delight. First, place the trimmed flat iron steak at the bottom of the Crock Pot, ensuring even distribution for uniform heat exposure.
Layer the sliced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and quartered potatoes over the steak to create a vegetable bed that locks in moisture and adds earthy sweetness. Pour the beef broth mixture evenly over the top, covering the ingredients to allow the flavors to meld into a savory symphony.
Cover the Crock Pot and set it to low heat for 6 to 8 hours—or high heat for 4 to 5 hours—until the steak reaches an internal temperature of 145°F for medium-rare doneness, resulting in a juicy, fork-tender texture that showcases the steak’s bold flavors. Use tongs to gently stir halfway through cooking if desired, ensuring the vegetables become tender and infused with the steak’s rich juices.
Serve the Steak
Once cooking is complete, we turn our attention to serving this succulent flat iron steak that boasts a tender bite and aromatic essence. Carefully remove the steak from the Crock Pot using tongs, letting it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes to retain its juices and enhance its flavorful profile.
Slice the steak against the grain into ½-inch thick pieces to maximize tenderness, then arrange it on plates alongside the softened carrots, potatoes, and onions for a visually appealing and balanced meal. Drizzle any remaining broth from the Crock Pot over the steak to amplify its savory depth, and serve immediately to savor the warm, comforting flavors that make this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To make our Flat Iron Steak in Crock Pot recipe even more convenient for busy schedules, we can prepare several components in advance. This approach allows us to streamline the cooking process while preserving the steak’s tender texture and bold flavors. Below, we outline the key steps for make-ahead preparation, ensuring your meal remains hassle-free and delicious.
Prepping Ingredients Ahead of Time
We recommend starting by preparing the vegetables and steak up to 24 hours in advance. This keeps everything fresh and ready for assembly:
- Trim and season the steak: Take 2 pounds of flat iron steak, trim excess fat, and season it with salt and black pepper. Place it in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag in the refrigerator to maintain its natural tenderness.
- Slice the vegetables: Cut 1 large onion into slices, mince 3 cloves of garlic, and slice 2 cups of carrots. If using, quarter 4 Yukon Gold potatoes. Store these in separate airtight containers in the fridge to prevent sogginess and retain their vibrant crunch.
- Mix the liquids and seasonings: Combine 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme in a sealed jar. Shake well and refrigerate—this blend infuses the steak with rich, savory notes when you’re ready to cook.
Assembling and Storing the Crock Pot
For ultimate efficiency, we can partially assemble the ingredients in the Crock Pot insert up to 8 hours ahead:
- Layer the components: In a 6-quart Crock Pot insert, start with the sliced onions and carrots at the bottom for even flavor distribution. Add the trimmed steak on top, then sprinkle the minced garlic and potatoes around it.
- Add the liquids: Pour the pre-mixed broth blend over the layers to ensure the steak absorbs maximum moisture without over-marinating.
- Cover and refrigerate: Seal the Crock Pot insert with its lid or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap, then store it in the refrigerator. This step keeps the assembly fresh and cuts down on morning prep time.
Tips for Reheating and Cooking
When it’s time to cook, simply transfer the refrigerated insert to the Crock Pot base and set it to low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours. We advise against fully cooking ahead, as the steak’s fork-tender quality shines when slow-cooked fresh. If you need to reheat leftovers, warm them gently in the Crock Pot on low for 1–2 hours to avoid drying out the meat—always check that the internal temperature reaches 145°F for safety.
By following these make-ahead strategies, we maximize the budget-friendly appeal of flat iron steak while delivering a juicy, flavorful meal with minimal effort on the day of serving.
Conclusion
We’ve shown how flat iron steak in a Crock Pot delivers tender, flavorful results with minimal effort. It’s a smart choice for busy lives, letting us create satisfying meals without the fuss.
Try this approach and you’ll discover a go-to favorite that keeps things simple yet impressive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is flat iron steak and why is it good for Crock Pot cooking?
Flat iron steak is a flavorful, tender cut from the shoulder chuck, known for its rich taste and affordability. It’s perfect for Crock Pot cooking because slow cooking breaks down its fibers, making it juicy and tender without much effort. This budget-friendly option delivers a satisfying meal ideal for busy days or gatherings.
What ingredients are needed for Flat Iron Steak in the Crock Pot?
You’ll need 2 pounds of trimmed flat iron steak, a large sliced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, quartered Yukon Gold potatoes, low-sodium beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. These simple, high-quality ingredients enhance the steak’s natural flavors and ensure a straightforward recipe.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
Essential equipment includes a 6-quart Crock Pot for even cooking, a sharp chef’s knife and sturdy cutting board for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, tongs for handling the steak, and an optional garlic press. This setup makes preparation easy and helps achieve a tender, delicious result.
How do I cook Flat Iron Steak in the Crock Pot?
Trim the steak and slice vegetables, then layer them in the Crock Pot with seasonings and liquids. Set to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the steak is fork-tender. Rest the steak, slice against the grain, and drizzle with broth before serving for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Can I make Flat Iron Steak in the Crock Pot ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the steak by trimming and seasoning it, slice vegetables, and mix liquids up to 24 hours in advance. You can even assemble everything in the Crock Pot insert and refrigerate for up to 8 hours. Just transfer to the base and cook when ready, keeping the meal juicy and hassle-free.
How should I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of broth to maintain tenderness. Avoid overcooking to preserve the steak’s flavor and texture for the best results.