We’ve always been fans of effortless meals that pack a punch, and our Flat Iron Steak Crock Pot Recipe delivers just that. This tender cut from the beef shoulder transforms into a juicy, flavorful delight with the magic of slow cooking, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
What we love most is how this recipe keeps things simple yet sophisticated, turning affordable ingredients into a comforting feast. Whether you’re new to crock pot cooking or a pro, we’ll show you how easy it is to create a meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
When preparing our Flat Iron Steak Crock Pot Recipe, we start with fresh, high-quality ingredients that deliver tender, flavorful results every time. Below, we’ve organized them in the order they’re used, including precise measurements and any necessary prep notes to ensure success in your slow-cooked masterpiece.
- 2 pounds Flat Iron Steak: Choose a well-marbled cut from the beef shoulder for maximum juiciness; trim excess fat if needed, then cut into 1- to 2-inch chunks for even cooking.
- 1 large onion: Yellow variety works best; peel and slice into thin rings to build a flavorful base in the crock pot.
- 4 cloves garlic: Fresh and minced for a robust aroma; crush them just before adding to release their essential oils.
- 2 medium carrots: Peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces; these add natural sweetness and a satisfying crunch that softens perfectly during slow cooking.
- 2 medium potatoes: Such as Yukon Gold; wash, dice into 1-inch cubes, and leave the skin on for extra nutrients and texture.
- 1 cup beef broth: Low-sodium preferred; use it to create a savory liquid base that keeps the steak moist and infused with flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: This umami-packed ingredient enhances the beef’s depth; shake well before measuring.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the steak initially; opt for extra-virgin for a richer taste that complements the crock pot’s slow simmer.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Kosher type recommended; adjust based on broth sodium levels to balance the dish’s overall seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for a spicy kick; grind it right before use to preserve its pungent notes.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Or substitute with fresh thyme leaves if available; this herb ties the earthy flavors together seamlessly.
These ingredients combine to transform simple components into a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth Flat Iron Steak Crock Pot meal that’s as effortless as it is delicious.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Flat Iron Steak Crock Pot Recipe seamlessly after gathering the ingredients, we rely on a few key tools that simplify the slow-cooking process and ensure tender, flavorful results.
- Slow Cooker (Crock Pot): The heart of this recipe, we use a 6-quart or larger model to accommodate the steak and vegetables, allowing for even, low-heat cooking that transforms tough cuts into juicy perfection.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, non-slip board is crucial for safely chopping onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes, keeping our prep area organized and efficient.
- Chef’s Knife: We opt for a sharp 8-inch blade to quickly and precisely slice the vegetables and trim the Flat Iron Steak, ensuring uniform pieces for optimal cooking.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for ingredients like beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, so we recommend a set that includes 1-cup and 1-tablespoon sizes for precision.
- Large Skillet: If searing the steak for added flavor, a 12-inch nonstick or cast-iron skillet helps us achieve a flavorful crust before transferring everything to the slow cooker.
- Tongs: These are indispensable for handling the hot steak and vegetables, allowing us to flip and transfer items without mess.
- Mixing Spoon or Spatula: A heat-resistant spoon or silicone spatula keeps things stirring smoothly in the slow cooker, ensuring even distribution of flavors throughout the dish.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our high-quality ingredients and essential equipment, we guide you through the straightforward steps to prepare this flavorful Flat Iron Steak Crock Pot Recipe. Follow our precise instructions for a tender juicy result every time.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, we trim the 2 pounds of well-marbled Flat Iron Steak by removing any excess fat or silver skin using a sharp chef’s knife on a sturdy cutting board. This ensures the meat cooks evenly and absorbs flavors optimally.
Next, we chop the vegetables in this order: slice the large yellow onion into thin rings, mince 3 cloves of garlic, and cut 4 medium carrots and 4 medium potatoes into 1-inch chunks for even cooking and enhanced texture.
Then, we measure out the seasonings and liquids: pour 2 cups of beef broth into a bowl, add 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and combine 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1 teaspoon of dried thyme in a small dish. These steps prepare everything for seamless integration, promising a melt-in-your-mouth dish bursting with savory aromas.
Slow Cook the Steak
To begin, we heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, we sear the trimmed Flat Iron Steak for 2-3 minutes per side until a golden-brown crust forms, locking in the juices and intensifying the beefy flavor.
After searing, we transfer the steak to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker. Layer in the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes around the steak, then pour the beef broth mixture over everything. We cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6-8 hours, allowing the steak to become fork-tender and the vegetables to absorb the rich savory essence, filling your kitchen with irresistible herbaceous scents.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is complete, we carefully remove the steak from the slow cooker using tongs and let it rest for 5 minutes on a cutting board to retain its juices. Slice the steak against the grain into ½-inch thick pieces and arrange it alongside the tender vegetables on a serving platter.
Finally, we drizzle any remaining juices from the slow cooker over the dish for added moisture and flavor. Serve this hearty meal hot, savoring the juicy, melt-in-your-mouth steak paired with the perfectly cooked veggies for a comforting experience that highlights the ease of slow cooking.
Conclusion
We’ve crafted this Flat Iron Steak Crock Pot Recipe to bring simplicity and flavor right to your table. It’s a go-to for us when life’s busy yet we crave something hearty.
By slow cooking, you’ll unlock tender perfection that elevates everyday meals. We’re confident it’ll become one of your favorites—give it a try and savor the ease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Flat Iron Steak?
Flat Iron Steak is a tender cut from the beef shoulder, known for its rich marbling and juicy texture. It’s perfect for slow cooking in a Crock Pot, as it becomes melt-in-your-mouth delicious, making it an affordable yet flavorful option for home cooks.
What ingredients are needed for Flat Iron Steak Crock Pot Recipe?
You’ll need 2 pounds of Flat Iron Steak, a large yellow onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, salt, black pepper, and thyme. These high-quality ingredients enhance flavor and texture, creating a simple, comforting meal.
What equipment is required for this recipe?
A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is essential for even cooking, along with a sharp chef’s knife and cutting board for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a large skillet for searing the steak, and tongs or a spatula for handling ingredients safely.
How do I prepare Flat Iron Steak in a Crock Pot?
Trim and sear the steak in a skillet, then chop vegetables and mix with seasonings. Place everything in the slow cooker with beef broth and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Slice the steak and serve with veggies and juices for a tender, flavorful dish.
How long does it take to cook this recipe?
The recipe cooks on low heat for 6-8 hours in a Crock Pot, allowing the Flat Iron Steak to become juicy and tender. Prep time is about 15-20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days or relaxed weekends.
Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?
Yes, you can swap potatoes for sweet potatoes or use dried thyme instead of fresh, but stick to well-marbled cuts like Flat Iron Steak for best results. Always adjust seasonings to taste to maintain the dish’s flavor balance.
Is this recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! It’s simple and straightforward, with easy steps for trimming, chopping, and slow cooking. Even novice cooks can create an impressive meal using basic tools and affordable ingredients, guided by the clear instructions.