Tired of complicated dinners? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready when you are? Then look no further! This flat iron steak crock pot recipe is your new go-to for easy weeknight meals or impressive weekend gatherings. Forget tough, chewy steaks – this method guarantees melt-in-your-mouth tenderness every time. It's a simple, delicious, and healthy recipe perfect for busy lifestyles. Let's dive into this amazing flat iron steak recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs flat iron steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but adds fantastic depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Pat the flat iron steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear later. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub this spice mixture generously all over the steak.
Step 2: Sear (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor and a beautiful crust, heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it significantly enhances the flavor.
Step 3: Crock Pot Magic
Place the seared steak (or unseared if skipping the searing step) in your slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and add the bay leaf.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steak and your slow cooker.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, carefully remove the steak from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. Slice thinly and serve immediately. You can thicken the cooking liquid for a delicious gravy.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Flat Iron Steak:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space for the steak to cook evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked steak, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. 135°F (57°C) is medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) is medium, and 160°F (71°C) is well-done.
- Adjust seasonings to your liking: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Garlic and Herb Flat Iron Steak: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, and minced garlic to the spice rub.
- BBQ Flat Iron Steak: Replace the red wine with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last hour of cooking.
- Mushroom Flat Iron Steak: Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the steak and liquid.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 35-40g Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This flat iron steak recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It's a delicious dish that’s easy to make, requires minimal cleanup, and tastes amazing. Enjoy!