Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Garlic and Herbs

This Slow Cooker Flank Steak takes just 15 min prep and 8 hours to cook. Enjoy a flavorful meal featuring flank steak, garlic, onions in a hearty dish perfect for family dinners.

about slow cooker flank steak

slow cooker flank steak has a rich history rooted in culinary traditions that span generations, this dish is not just about cooking meat; it embodies the essence of home - cooked comfort food, often shared around family tables, flank steak, originally considered a less desirable cut, has transformed into a beloved choice thanks to its incredible flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly, with roots tracing back to hearty meals enjoyed by families in various cultures, this recipe celebrates the beauty of simplicity while delivering mouthwatering results .

what sets slow cooker flank steak apart ? for starters, it’s all about convenience. you can toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the magic for you, the unique combination of garlic and herbs infuses every bite with savory goodness while the low - and - slow cooking method ensures that even tougher cuts become melt - in - your - mouth tender, plus, it's an economical choice for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

master the art of slow cooker flank steak

flank steak has a fascinating origin story that ties back to traditional grilling practices think barbecues where families gather to share stories over sizzling meat, over time, this cut became popular due to its ability to absorb flavors beautifully and offer juicy tastes with each slice, its versatility allows it to shine across various cuisines from mexican fajitas to asian stir - fries .

culturally significant in many households, slow cooker flank steak reflects modern - day eating habits where busy schedules demand easy yet satisfying meals, this dish's popularity continues soaring as more people discover how simple ingredients can come together for an unforgettable dinner experience .

why this recipe will amaze you

get ready for some unique flavor combinations. when you mix fresh garlic and aromatic herbs like thyme and rosemary with savory soy sauce and beef broth, you're creating something truly special, each ingredient plays its part harmoniously it's like they were meant for each other.

foolproof techniques make this recipe accessible even if you're not a kitchen whiz, whether you’re searing your meat or simply throwing everything into your trusty slow cooker (no judgment here.), you'll find success every time. i’ve tested this method so many times i swear i could make it blindfolded at this point and honestly ? it never disappoints .

and let's talk time - saving tips : prep takes only 15 minutes. then you set your timer (or ignore it completely) while delicious aromas waft through your home over several hours a little bit of magic happening right there.

health & nutrition highlights

when considering health benefits, this slow - cooked wonder scores high marks. packed with protein from flank steak around 40 grams per serving it supports muscle growth and keeps hunger at bay longer than typical carb - heavy dishes might allow .

dietary considerations are also essential; if you're watching sodium intake or following specific diets like gluten - free or paleo, small tweaks can easily adapt this recipe without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

wellness advantages abound too; incorporating lean beef offers iron vital for energy levels while fresh herbs provide antioxidants beneficial for overall health who knew comfort food could be so nourishing ?

balanced nutrition facts reveal approximately 320 calories per serving a reasonable amount given how filling this meal is.

recipe at a glance

let’s break down what you'll need :

• total preparation time : just 15 minutes before letting your slow cooker do its thing.
• skill level required : easy - peasy even beginner cooks can nail it .
• serving size details : serves 4 - 6 hungry folks or provides tasty leftovers.
• cost efficiency : very wallet - friendly compared to dining out perfect when hosting friends or family gatherings .

in summary, whether you’re looking to impress guests with delightful flavors or whip up something wholesome on busy weeknights the allure of slow cooker flank steak lies within its simplicity combined with robust taste profiles that resonate deeply through cultural significance as well as modern needs alike.

essential components guide

premium core ingredients

for a mouthwatering slow cooker flank steak , the right ingredients make all the difference, here’s what you need :

• flank steak (2 pounds) : look for bright red meat with some marbling, which indicates tenderness and flavor, when selecting, avoid any meat that looks dull or has excessive fat .

• olive oil (1 tablespoon) : use extra virgin olive oil for its rich taste, it should smell fruity and fresh – that's how you know it's good. store it in a cool, dark place to keep it from going rancid .

• salt and pepper : go for kosher salt if you can; it’s coarser and easier to control when seasoning, freshly cracked black pepper gives your dish a lovely kick.

• onion (1 medium) : choose sweet onions like vidalia or yellow onions for a perfect balance of sweetness and depth in flavor .

• garlic (4 cloves) : fresh garlic is key. look for firm bulbs without sprouting green shoots, if you've got leftovers, store them in a cool, dry place away from sunlight .

• beef broth (1 cup) : homemade broth is ideal but if you're short on time, opt for low - sodium store - bought varieties so you can control the saltiness of your dish .

• soy sauce (1/4 cup) & worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons) : both add umami richness. check labels to find brands with fewer additives – they often taste better too .

• dried thyme & dried rosemary (2 teaspoons each) : these herbs are widely available dried at your local grocery store, for fresher flavor, look out for whole leaves instead of powder .

signature seasoning blend

the magic happens here. this blend elevates your slow cooker flank steak to something special :

• spice combinations : a pinch of smoked paprika adds depth without overpowering everything else trust me on this one.

• herb selections : besides thyme and rosemary, consider adding oregano or even some italian seasoning mix if you're feeling adventurous .

• flavor enhancers : a dash of red pepper flakes gives just enough heat without overwhelming flavors perfect for those who enjoy a little spice.

• aromatic additions : bay leaves added during cooking can intensify the aroma beautifully; just remember to fish them out before serving.

smart substitutions

sometimes life throws curveballs at us while cooking. no worries here are swaps that won’t compromise flavor :

• instead of flank steak, try skirt steak or tri - tip as alternatives; they work similarly but might change up texture slightly .

• for gluten - free options, swap soy sauce with coconut aminos it offers similar savory notes without gluten .

• if you're short on beef broth, vegetable broth will do fine but be cautious about seasoning since veggies have their own distinct tastes.

• seasonal variations matter too; use fresh herbs in summer when they're abundant instead of dried ones they pack more punch.

kitchen equipment essentials

to whip up this delightful slow cooker dish effortlessly :

must - have tools

a good chef's knife is essential not only does it help slice through that beautiful flank steak easily but makes prep so much quicker.

recommended appliances

of course, you'll need a reliable slow cooker that's where all the magic happens. i recommend one with programmable settings because… well… life gets busy sometimes.

helpful gadgets

using kitchen tongs will save your hands from burns when flipping things over while searing, they’re pretty handy when serving too just don’t drop anything like i did once . . .oops.

home alternatives

if you don’t have a slow cooker ? you could use an oven - safe pot covered tightly; adjust cooking times since ovens may require different temperatures versus crock pots .

pro ingredient tips

here’s where my experience comes into play these tips will save you time and money down the line :

selection secrets :

always check expiration dates on pre - packaged items like beef broth or soy sauce the last thing you want is stale ingredients ruining dinner plans.

quality markers :

when choosing canned goods like beans or tomatoes consider opting for bpa - free cans if possible they're better health - wise plus tastier too due to less metallic aftertaste .

storage solutions :

store leftover sauces and spices in airtight containers after opening them they’ll stay fresher longer this way rather than sitting exposed in cabinets gathering dust . ., trust me i’ve learned this lesson multiple times . . .

money - saving tips :

buy bulk spices whenever possible they tend to be cheaper over time compared against small jars bought individually at regular prices and they last long enough as long as stored properly away from light sources .

and there ya have it a complete breakdown that'll set you up perfectly before diving into making that delicious slow cooker flank steak. enjoy every moment spent prepping these stellar ingredients you'll thank yourself later when everyone raves about dinner around the table.

master chef's method : slow cooker flank steak with garlic and herbs

essential preparation steps

1, mise en place :

• gather all your ingredients : 2 pounds of flank steak, olive oil, salt, pepper, onion, garlic, beef broth, soy sauce, worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary, having everything in one place makes cooking smooth .

1, prep techniques :

• pat the flank steak dry with paper towels to help it sear better, slice the onion and mince the garlic this takes just a few minutes but adds loads of flavor .

1, time management :

• set aside about 15 minutes for prep work before starting your slow cooker, this will keep you organized and reduce stress as you cook .

1, organization tips :

• use separate bowls for prepped ingredients like onions and garlic so they’re easy to grab when needed, keeping things tidy helps prevent any last - minute chaos.

professional cooking method

1, step - by - step process :

• start by seasoning both sides of your flank steak generously with salt and pepper .
• in a large skillet over medium - high heat (about 400°f), add a tablespoon of olive oil until it shimmers .

1, temperature control :

• once the oil is hot enough (you can test by flicking in a drop of water if it sizzles away quickly, you’re good), carefully sear the flank steak for about 3 - 4 minutes on each side until browned .

1, timing precision :

• transfer the seared steak to your slow cooker right after browning it; don’t wait too long or it'll lose those delicious juices.

1, success indicators :

• you’ll know you've seared correctly if it's golden brown on both sides. it’s this caramelization that enhances flavor as it cooks slowly later on .

expert techniques

1, professional methods :

• after placing the meat in the slow cooker, layer sliced onions and minced garlic right on top it'll infuse flavor deeply into every bite.

1, critical steps :

• mix up your liquid ingredients : combine beef broth (1 cup), soy sauce (¼ cup), worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons), dried thyme (2 teaspoons), and dried rosemary (2 teaspoons) in a bowl before pouring over meat .

1, precision points :

• make sure all liquid covers at least half of the meat; this ensures even cooking throughout its entire surface area .

1, quality checks :

• a good indicator that everything is working well ? the aroma wafting through your kitchen. if you're not drooling yet . ., you might want to check those seasonings again.

success strategies

1, troubleshooting tips :

• if your flank steak seems tough after cooking maybe it's because it was sliced incorrectly ? always remember to slice against the grain; this makes all difference.

1, quality assurance :

• taste - checking is key. before serving up those juicy slices, dip a spoon into that flavorful broth mix it should be rich and savory without being overly salty .

1, perfect results guide – aim for an internal temperature around 140°f for medium - rare–using an instant - read thermometer can make this super easy.

1, final touches – letting that beautiful flank steak rest for about five minutes post - cooking allows juices to redistribute evenly within before slicing trust me; it's worth waiting just a bit longer.

by following these steps closely from preparation through professional methods you'll have yourself some amazing slow cooker flank steak that's tender enough to melt in your mouth. enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share some stories while savouring such deliciousness.

success guaranteed tips

when it comes to making a mouthwatering slow cooker flank steak, a few tried - and - true tips can elevate your dish to the next level, first off, marinating overnight works wonders, not only does it infuse flavor deep into the meat, but it also helps tenderize it, if you're short on time, even a quick 30 - minute marinade will do.

another pro tip ? don’t skip the searing step. searing the steak enhances its natural flavors by creating that delicious caramelized crust we all love, plus, it's super satisfying to watch those juices seal in.

and here’s some kitchen wisdom : always slice against the grain, this is crucial for ensuring every bite is tender and juicy no one enjoys gnawing on tough meat. lastly, trust your instincts; if something feels off or you think you need more seasoning as you go along, don’t hesitate to adjust .

perfect presentation

now let’s talk about how to make that slow cooker flank steak not just taste good but look amazing too. plating techniques are key here, start with a nice base of creamy mashed potatoes or garlic cauliflower puree as your canvas .

for garnishing ideas, fresh parsley adds both color and freshness plus it's pretty much an instant upgrade. you could even sprinkle some sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds for added texture .

serving suggestions can really set the mood too; consider pairing with seasonal roasted vegetables for brightness and crunch, and hey, don't forget visual appeal. drizzle those savory juices over everything just before serving; it's like giving your dish a little bath of deliciousness.

storage & make - ahead

if you’re diving into meal prep mode (which i totally recommend), storing leftovers properly ensures they stay fresh and tasty, always let your slow cooker flank steak cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers this helps prevent sogginess .

for preservation methods, keep them in the fridge for up to four days or freeze portions for up to three months if using proper freezer - safe containers, just remember to label them with dates so you won’t be guessing later.

reheating instructions are simple : either pop it back in the microwave (covered) at medium heat until warmed through or use a skillet on low heat with a splash of beef broth for moisture retention .

freshness tips ? add freshly chopped herbs like parsley right before serving again after reheating it’ll give that "just - cooked" feel back.

creative variations

feeling adventurous ? there are plenty of creative variations when cooking this slow cooker flank steak recipe. for flavor adaptations, try marinating in different sauces like teriyaki or adding spices such as smoked paprika for an extra kick .

dietary modifications can also be made easily for gluten - free options swap soy sauce with coconut aminos without losing any umami goodness.

as seasons change so should our dishes; add seasonal twists by incorporating ingredients like butternut squash in fall or peaches during summer grilling season the possibilities are endless.

regional variations could include trying out regional spices like chimichurri from argentina or korean gochujang sauce mixed in that'll definitely put an international flair on your plate.

expert faq solutions

got questions ? no worries i’ve got answers. one common concern is about toughness; if your flank steak turns out chewy instead of tender don’t panic it might just need more cooking time next round or slicing differently against the grain will help immensely too .

another frequent query involves flavors being lackluster; fear not because sometimes all meats benefit from a bit more salt post - cooking you’d be surprised what a pinch can do.

my troubleshooting guide consists mainly of checking temperatures during cooking times slow cookers vary significantly between brands and years and knowing when things aren’t going according to plan can save dinner night stress levels considerably.

pro success tips include tasting as you go along (who doesn’t love sampling ?), adjusting seasonings based on personal preferences and never underestimate how flavorful that liquid gold at bottom becomes once reduced slightly down post - cooking…yum - o.

complete nutrition guide

alrighty then let's break down why this dish isn’t just delicious but nutritious too. each serving provides around 320 calories packed full of protein (~40g) hey now that's muscle fuel right there not bad considering how indulgent it feels while eating. .

in terms of health benefits : lean cuts like flank steak offer essential vitamins including b12 which supports red blood cell production alongside iron aiding energy levels throughout daily activities a win - win if ya ask me. .

dietary information shows minimal carbs (~7g) per serving meaning perfect fit within various diets focused primarily on protein intake without sacrificing satisfaction factor at dinnertime. .

portion guidance suggests enjoying this hearty meal alongside light sides keeps balanced plates while still leaving room for dessert afterward ( wink wink ) . . .because who doesn’t want dessert ?.

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