Slow Cooker Flank Steak

Category: Satisfying Main Courses for Every Occasion

Slow-cooked flank steak transforms a tough cut into slices that are fork-tender and full of flavor. Simply season the beef, let it cook low and slow in beef broth, and the result is juicy steak ready to serve with your favorite sides. Rest the meat before slicing for best results and cut against the grain to ensure each piece stays tender. This preparation is not only fuss-free for busy days but also versatile—enjoy the steak as a main course or use it for tacos, grain bowls, salads, and sandwiches. Storage and reheating are a breeze if you have leftovers.

A man named Alex is holding a wooden spoon.
Created By Alex
Updated on Thu, 03 Jul 2025 22:53:32 GMT

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A plate of slow cooker flank steak. Pin
A plate of slow cooker flank steak. | buzkitchen.com

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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
A plate of slow cooker flank steak. Pin
A plate of slow cooker flank steak. | buzkitchen.com

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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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A plate of food with a piece of meat and vegetables. Pin
A plate of food with a piece of meat and vegetables. | buzkitchen.com

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.

Slow Cooker Flank Steak

Flank steak turns out incredibly tender, ready to serve or repurpose for tacos, bowls, and more.

Preparation Time
10 mins
Cooking Time
240 mins
Overall Time
250 mins
Created By: Alex

Category: Main Dishes

Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly

Cuisine Type: American

Makes: 6 Serves

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

01 2 pounds flank steak
02 3 tablespoons homemade steak seasoning
03 ½ cup beef broth

Steps

Step 01

Use an oval or rectangular slow cooker if possible to allow beef to spread out. Avoid a round slow cooker.

Step 02

Pour beef broth into the bottom of the slow cooker.

Step 03

Place the flank steak in the slow cooker and sprinkle the top evenly with homemade steak seasoning.

Step 04

Cover and cook the steak on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Step 05

Remove the cooked steak and place it on a cutting board to rest for 15 minutes.

Step 06

Slice the steak against the grain into ¼ to ½ inch thick slices and serve.

Notes

  1. Store sliced steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
  2. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water, or microwave in short bursts covered with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.
  3. Cooking on low produces the best texture. Cooking on high may result in slightly tougher meat.
  4. If the steak is still chewy, cook it longer until tender, checking in 30-minute increments.
  5. Use a sharp knife to slice the steak against the grain easily.

Tools You'll Need

  • Slow Cooker

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

These details are provided for general information and should not replace medical advice.
  • Calories: 215
  • Fats: 8 g
  • Carbohydrates: 1 g
  • Proteins: 33 g

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