Are you craving a delicious, tender steak dinner but short on time? Then look no further! This flat iron steak slow cooker recipe is your answer. This easy recipe transforms a relatively inexpensive cut of beef into a mouthwatering, fall-apart tender masterpiece, perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Forget complicated techniques and long cooking times – this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It's one of those healthy meals that feels incredibly indulgent. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs flat iron steak, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Steak (Optional but Recommended)
For maximum flavor, start by searing your steak. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the flat iron steak generously with salt and pepper. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Step 2: Slow Cooker Magic
Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seared steak (or unseared if skipping the first step) on top of the onions and garlic.
Step 3: The Flavor Infusion
In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Pour this mixture over the steak in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and 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 your slow cooker and the thickness of your steak.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker 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. Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid. Slice the steak thinly against the grain and serve with the delicious pan juices.
Cooking Tips for Flat Iron Steak Success:
- Against the Grain: Always slice your flat iron steak against the grain for maximum tenderness. The muscle fibers run in a specific direction, and slicing against them breaks them down, making the steak much easier to chew.
- Don't Overcook: Flat iron steak can become tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 135-145°F for medium-rare to medium.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
Variations:
- Garlic Herb Butter: Add a pat of garlic herb butter to the top of the steak before slow cooking for extra richness and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cooking liquid for a spicy twist.
- Mushroom Medley: Sauté some mushrooms with the onions and garlic for an added layer of flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
This slow cooker flat iron steak recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious dish that's surprisingly simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals. Enjoy!