We’ve always loved the rich, beefy flavor of flat iron steak, a cut from the shoulder that’s tender and perfect for slow cooking. In our Crock Pot recipes, it transforms into a melt-in-your-mouth delight that’s ideal for effortless weeknight meals.
This method keeps things simple yet delivers bold tastes that rival restaurant fare. We’re sharing our favorite tips to help you create juicy, flavorful results every time, making it a go-to for busy families seeking comfort without the fuss.
Ingredients
To prepare our flavorful Flat Iron Steak in Crock Pot recipe, we start by gathering these essential ingredients. We’ll list them in the order they’re typically used—beginning with the base layers, followed by the main protein, liquids, and seasonings—for seamless assembly in your slow cooker.
- Flat Iron Steak: 2 pounds, trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1-2 inch pieces to ensure even cooking and maximum tenderness.
- Onions: 2 medium, thinly sliced, to create a savory base layer that builds rich flavors as they caramelize.
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced, for adding a bold, aromatic punch that infuses the dish with depth.
- Carrots: 4 large, peeled and sliced into 1-inch rounds, providing a sweet, earthy contrast and essential nutrients.
- Potatoes: 4 medium Yukon Gold, quartered, to absorb the juices and offer a hearty, comforting texture.
- Beef Broth: 2 cups low-sodium, to keep the steak juicy and flavorful without overpowering the natural taste.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 2 tablespoons, for a tangy umami boost that enhances the steak’s inherent richness.
- Fresh Thyme: 1 tablespoon leaves, stripped from stems, to impart a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Salt and Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper, freshly ground, to season layers and balance the overall flavors.
Equipment Needed
To bring our flavorful Flat Iron Steak in the Crock Pot to life, we rely on a few essential tools that make preparation straightforward and efficient. Below, we outline the key equipment in a simple list, organized by the sequence of use in the recipe process. This ensures seamless cooking while enhancing safety and precision.
- Crock Pot (Slow Cooker): Our primary tool for this recipe, a 6-quart Crock Pot is ideal as it allows even, low-heat cooking to tenderize the flat iron steak over several hours. We recommend one with a timer for hands-off monitoring.
- Chef’s Knife: A sharp 8-inch chef’s knife is necessary for trimming and cutting the 2 pounds of flat iron steak into 1-2 inch pieces, as well as slicing the 2 medium onions and 4 large carrots. This ensures clean, even cuts that promote even cooking.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy, large cutting board (at least 12×18 inches) provides a safe surface for prepping vegetables like the 4 minced garlic cloves and quartered potatoes, minimizing mess and protecting countertops.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for ingredients such as the 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce. We use a set of dry and liquid measuring cups along with spoons to guarantee the perfect balance of flavors.
- Mixing Spoon or Tongs: A long-handled wooden spoon or heat-resistant tongs help us stir and arrange ingredients in the Crock Pot, ensuring the steak and vegetables like thyme leaves are evenly distributed for optimal seasoning.
| Equipment Item | Purpose | Recommended Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Crock Pot | Slow cooking and heat retention | 6-quart capacity with timer |
| Chef’s Knife | Cutting meat and vegetables | 8-inch blade, sharp edge |
| Cutting Board | Prep surface for chopping | 12×18 inches, non-slip |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Precise ingredient measurement | Set including 1-cup and spoons |
| Mixing Spoon or Tongs | Stirring and handling food | Heat-resistant, long-handled |
Instructions
We gather our fresh ingredients and trusty equipment to craft a tender and flavorful Flat Iron Steak in the Crock Pot that will melt in your mouth with every bite.
Prepare the Steak
First, we start by prepping the Flat Iron Steak to ensure maximum tenderness and flavor infusion. Trim any excess fat from the 2 pounds of Flat Iron Steak, then cut it into 1-2 inch pieces using a sharp 8-inch chef’s knife on a sturdy cutting board for safe and precise slicing.
Next, we prepare the vegetables in the order they’ll layer into the Crock Pot. Thinly slice 2 medium onions to release their sweet aroma, mince 4 garlic cloves for a pungent kick, slice 4 large carrots into even rounds, and quarter 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes to absorb the savory juices.
Finally, measure out 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves, seasoning everything with salt and black pepper to taste for a balanced, hearty base.
Cook in Crock Pot
We assemble our dish in the 6-quart Crock Pot for slow-cooked perfection. Layer the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom for a flavorful foundation, then add the cut Flat Iron Steak pieces on top followed by the sliced carrots and quartered potatoes.
Pour in the 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, sprinkling the 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves evenly over the ingredients. Cover and set the Crock Pot to low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally with a long-handled mixing spoon to blend flavors and ensure even cooking until the steak is fork-tender and infused with rich, savory notes.
Serve the Dish
Once cooking is complete, we carefully remove the Flat Iron Steak and vegetables from the Crock Pot using tongs, allowing the dish to rest for 5 minutes to lock in juices and enhance its mouthwatering aroma.
Plate the steak alongside the carrots and potatoes, garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh thyme for visual appeal and added zest. Serve hot to savor the juicy tenderness and robust flavors, pairing it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete, comforting meal that highlights the ease of Crock Pot cooking.
Make-Ahead Tips
To make our Flat Iron Steak in Crock Pot recipe even more convenient for busy weeknights, we recommend these practical strategies that allow you to prep ahead while preserving the steak’s tender texture and rich, savory flavors. By planning in advance, we can ensure juicy results with minimal effort on the day of serving.
Prepping Ingredients in Advance
We often prepare the core components the night before to save time. Start by trimming and cutting 2 pounds of flat iron steak into 1-2 inch pieces as outlined in our instructions. Season the steak lightly with salt and black pepper, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This step lets the flavors begin to meld, enhancing the steak’s beefy depth.
For the vegetables, slice 2 medium onions and 4 large carrots thinly, mince 4 garlic cloves, and quarter 4 medium Yukon Gold potatoes. Arrange these in separate containers or resealable bags to prevent sogginess—onions and garlic can be combined, but keep potatoes separate to avoid discoloration. With this method, we reduce prep time by about 15-20 minutes the next day, as shown in the table below for efficiency gains:
| Preparation Step | Time Saved (Minutes) | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Trimming and cutting steak | 10 | Reduces last-minute handling and allows flavors to develop |
| Slicing vegetables | 10 | Maintains freshness while minimizing chopping on the day |
| Total prep time reduction | 20 | Enables a seamless assembly for a stress-free meal |
Assembling the Crock Pot Ahead
We can fully assemble the Crock Pot up to 12 hours in advance for ultimate convenience. Layer the prepped flat iron steak, onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes in the pot as per our recipe steps. Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, then sprinkle 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme leaves on top. Cover and refrigerate the entire assembled pot if your model allows, or keep it ready to plug in.
When you’re ready to cook, simply place the Crock Pot on low heat for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This approach lets the ingredients’ aromas intensify overnight, resulting in a more flavorful, fork-tender steak that fills your kitchen with an irresistible, hearty scent.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If we have extras, store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to enjoy the dish’s evolving taste. Transfer the cooked Flat Iron Steak and vegetables to airtight containers, where the juices will continue to tenderize the meat. To reheat, warm portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop over low heat for 5 minutes, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture and that melt-in-your-mouth texture we love. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety and optimal flavor.
Conclusion
We’re thrilled you’ve explored our flat iron steak Crock Pot recipes with us. It’s a simple way to bring tender, flavorful meals to your table effortlessly.
By slow-cooking this cut, you’ll enjoy juicy results that fit busy lifestyles without sacrificing taste. Give it a go and make it a go-to for your family dinners—we know it’ll become a favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is flat iron steak and why is it ideal for Crock Pot cooking?
Flat iron steak is a tender cut from the shoulder, known for its rich flavor. It’s perfect for Crock Pot cooking because slow cooking breaks down its fibers, making it juicy and flavorful, ideal for easy weeknight meals without much effort.
What ingredients are needed for Flat Iron Steak in a Crock Pot?
You’ll need 2 pounds of trimmed flat iron steak cut into pieces, sliced onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, quartered Yukon Gold potatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, fresh thyme, and salt and pepper. These ingredients create a savory, hearty dish when layered and cooked.
What equipment is required to make this recipe?
Essential equipment includes a 6-quart Crock Pot for even cooking, an 8-inch chef’s knife for cutting, a sturdy cutting board, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, and a mixing spoon or tongs for stirring. These tools ensure efficient and safe preparation.
How do I prepare Flat Iron Steak in a Crock Pot?
Trim and cut the steak into pieces, then layer it with sliced vegetables in the Crock Pot. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until fork-tender. Rest before serving and garnish with thyme for enhanced flavor.
Can I make Flat Iron Steak in a Crock Pot ahead of time?
Yes, prep the steak and vegetables in advance to save time—trim and season steak, and slice veggies up to a day ahead. You can fully assemble the Crock Pot up to 12 hours before cooking, allowing flavors to meld for a more delicious result.
How should I store and reheat leftovers of this dish?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to maintain moisture and flavor, ensuring the steak remains tender.