Are you craving a flavorful and tender steak dinner but short on time? Look no further! This recipe for crock pot skirt steak offers a fantastic solution for busy weeknights. Forget tough, chewy skirt steak – this slow-cooked method delivers unbelievably juicy and delicious results, perfect for a quick dinner, a healthy meal, or even a special occasion. It's one of the best recipes for effortless homemade cooking. Let's dive into this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs skirt steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Steak
Pat the skirt steak dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a better sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Searing (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor and a nice crust, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. This step is optional, but it significantly enhances the overall taste.
Step 3: Crock Pot Magic
Place the seared (or unseared) steak in your slow cooker. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Slow Cooking Perfection
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steak is incredibly tender. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will become. Use a fork to easily shred the meat to check for doneness.
Step 5: Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, remove the steak from the crock pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain. This helps to keep it tender. Serve the sliced steak over rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside your favorite sides. The delicious sauce from the crock pot can be served over the steak or as a dipping sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot: Ensure there's enough space around the steak for even cooking.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preferences.
- Use a meat thermometer: For ultimate accuracy, check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it reaches a safe temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Variations:
- Spicy Skirt Steak: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Citrus Twist: Add the zest and juice of one lime or orange to the crock pot for a brighter, more vibrant flavor.
- Garlic Lover's Delight: Add extra garlic cloves or a tablespoon of garlic powder.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - approximate, based on 6 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious and easy crock pot skirt steak recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and satisfying. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish! This recipe is a great addition to your collection of easy recipes and delicious dishes. It's one of the best recipes you'll find for effortless homemade cooking.