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Nothing beats a tender steak dinner at home and it does not get much easier than making flank steak in the slow cooker This recipe gives you reliably juicy steak strips that can be served hot or used for leftovers in so many ways from bowls to salads and even tacos The slow cooker does all the hard work while you get on with your day
I remember the first time I set this to cook before heading out for the afternoon and came home to the most mouthwatering aroma Now I make a double batch so I can have strips on hand all week
Ingredients
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- Flank steak: Choose about two pounds of well-marbled flank steak for tenderness and beefy flavor Avoid pieces with thick fat layers for best results
- Homemade steak seasoning: Adds tons of flavor to the meat Mix your own with salt black pepper garlic powder onion powder and smoked paprika for extra depth
- Beef broth: A half cup keeps the steak moist and adds savory richness Look for low-sodium broth to control the seasoning
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Use an oval or rectangular slow cooker to allow the steak to lay flat Place the insert inside and preheat while you prepare the ingredients
- Add Broth:
- Pour a half cup of beef broth into the bottom of the slow cooker This will help create steam and keep the steak juicy through the long cook
- Layer in the Flank Steak:
- Arrange your flank steak flat in the slow cooker Make sure it is not folded or bunched for even cooking
- Season the Steak:
- Sprinkle the homemade steak seasoning evenly across the top of the meat Press the seasoning gently into the surface so it sticks well
- Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid Set to low for six to eight hours for the most tender result or high for three to four hours for a quicker meal Try not to open the lid during cooking
- Rest the Steak:
- When the meat is done transfer it to a cutting board Let it rest for fifteen minutes uncovered to keep the juices inside
- Slice and Serve:
- Use a sharp knife to slice against the grain into quarter to half inch strips Cutting this way ensures the most tender bite Serve hot or cool completely before storing

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Flank steak is my favorite cut for the slow cooker because it has so much flavor yet it is so easy to overcook on the stove My kids always sneak some slices before I even get them to the table and we have started making it a weekend meal tradition
Storage Tips
Transfer sliced steak to an airtight container once cooled It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days For longer storage freeze slices laid flat in a zip bag with the air pressed out frozen steak can last up to three months Reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of broth to keep the meat juicy
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Ingredient Substitutions
If you do not have flank steak skirt steak is another great option The texture comes out wonderfully tender with the same cooking method For broth you can swap chicken broth in a pinch and use any steak seasoning you love or even a simple blend of salt and pepper
Serving Suggestions
This steak is versatile enough to use in so many dishes Try piling the strips over mashed potatoes alongside your favorite vegetable For a lighter option toss the steak into a big green salad or layer it in tortillas for quick steak tacos The leftovers are amazing in grain bowls or on top of roasted vegetables
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Cultural Context
Flank steak has always been valued for its rich beefy flavor even though it is one of the less expensive cuts Slow cooking transforms it from tough to tender making it a staple in American home kitchens for hearty family meals It is a favorite for meal planners and busy cooks because it stretches across several dishes with little extra effort
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep flank steak tender in the slow cooker?
Cook the steak on a low setting for several hours and slice against the grain after resting for best tenderness.
- → What type of slow cooker works best?
An oval or rectangular slow cooker allows the steak to lay flat and cook evenly.
- → Can I use store-bought steak seasoning?
Yes, both homemade and pre-made steak seasoning blends work well for this method.
- → How should I store leftover steak?
Keep slices in an airtight container in the fridge up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- → How do I reheat flank steak without drying it out?
Reheat steak with a splash of broth in a skillet or cover with a damp paper towel in the microwave.
- → What are some ways to use leftovers?
Leftover steak is great in tacos, salads, grain bowls, or sandwiches for quick, flavorful meals.