You’re busy, and dinner can feel like a daunting task, right? If you’re like many families juggling work, school, and countless activities, you probably crave meals that are both hearty and easy to prepare. That’s why I created this post, focusing on flank steak recipes for the crock pot. These recipes are not just about saving time; they also pack in bold flavors that’ll make your taste buds sing.
If you love delicious, tender beef that doesn’t take hours to prepare, you’re in the right place. These easy flank steak recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping for the week ahead. I’ve gathered 16 scrumptious dishes that are simple, satisfying, and ideal for families looking to enjoy a hearty meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
From spicy Asian stir-fry to classic chili, these crock pot beef dishes are designed to make mealtime a breeze. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, you’ll discover how to transform flank steak into flavorful meals that everyone will love. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes that bring bold beef flavor right to your table!
Key Takeaways
– Diverse Flavors: Explore 16 unique crock pot flank steak recipes, each offering a bold flavor profile, from BBQ tacos to Italian dishes.
– Ease of Preparation: Most recipes require minimal prep time, making them perfect for busy families looking for quick meal solutions.
– Tender Results: Slow cooking ensures that flank steak becomes tender and juicy, making these dishes a hit at the dining table.
– Family-Friendly Options: Many recipes are not only delicious but also designed to please kids and adults alike, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
– Versatile Ingredients: Learn how to use common pantry items and fresh ingredients to create hearty meals without breaking the bank.
1. Classic Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Garlic and Herbs
Craving a comforting and savory meal? This classic slow cooker flank steak delivers tender beef infused with garlic and fresh herbs, creating an irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen. It’s not just delicious; the garlic adds depth while the herbs enhance the flavor, making it a delightful family dinner option that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or steamed veggies.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Generously season the flank steak with salt, pepper, garlic, and chopped herbs.
2. Place the flank steak in the slow cooker and pour the beef broth over it.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is tender.
4. Slice the steak against the grain and serve with your favorite sides.
For extra flavor, marinate the flank steak overnight in garlic and herbs before cooking. Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches the next day!
2. Spicy Asian Flank Steak Stir-Fry
Looking to spice things up for dinner? This spicy Asian-inspired flank steak stir-fry is bursting with flavor! The slow cooker blends soy sauce, ginger, and chili flakes beautifully, making every bite a savory delight. Serve it over rice or noodles to soak up that delicious sauce for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak, sliced thinly
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Place the sliced flank steak in the slow cooker and pour the sauce over it.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours.
4. Serve over steamed rice or noodles and garnish with chopped green onions.
For an added crunch, top with roasted peanuts before serving. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.
3. BBQ Flank Steak Tacos
Who can resist a taco night? These BBQ flank steak tacos are packed with flavor and joy! The slow cooker tenderizes the meat while infusing it with smoky BBQ goodness, ensuring each bite is a delight. Load them up with your favorite toppings for a fun family dinner that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 12 small tortillas
– 1 cup coleslaw mix
– 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños
Instructions:
1. Place the flank steak in the slow cooker and cover it with BBQ sauce.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours until tender.
3. Shred the steak with two forks and mix it with the sauce in the cooker.
4. Serve in tortillas and top with coleslaw and jalapeños.
For a flavor twist, add sliced avocado or fresh cilantro as toppings. These tacos are perfect for gatherings or casual dinners!
4. Flank Steak Fajitas
Elevate your family night with these sizzling flank steak fajitas! The slow cooker tenderizes the beef while melding the flavors of bell peppers and onions perfectly. Picture everyone gathering around, assembling their own fajitas with fresh toppings—it’s not just a meal, it’s an experience!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
– Flour or corn tortillas
Instructions:
1. Place the flank steak in the slow cooker and add the sliced peppers and onion on top.
2. Sprinkle with taco seasoning and set to cook on low for 6 hours.
3. Once cooked, slice the steak against the grain and assemble fajitas in tortillas with your choice of toppings like guacamole, sour cream, and salsa.
Serve with a side of rice or beans for a complete meal. Customize with additional toppings such as cheese or fresh cilantro!
5. Italian Flank Steak with Tomato Sauce
Savor a comforting Italian-inspired dinner with flank steak drenched in rich tomato sauce. The slow cooker ensures each bite bursts with flavor, and the tomatoes provide a delightful acidity that balances the dish. Pair this with pasta or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that savory sauce!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the flank steak, ensuring it is submerged in the sauce.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours.
4. Serve the steak slices topped with sauce over pasta or with bread for dipping.
Finish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese for an elevated touch. This dish is also excellent for meal prep and reheats well.
6. Flank Steak Chili
Warm up on chilly days with this hearty flank steak chili. Bursting with beans, tomatoes, and spices, this dish is perfect for the entire family. The slow cooker breaks down the flank steak, making it tender and flavorful, while the spices deliver a satisfying kick. Serve with cornbread for a comforting meal!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak, diced
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, blend together the diced flank steak, beans, tomatoes, onion, chili powder, and cumin.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours until the beef is tender.
3. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and green onions on top.
Customize the spice level to your liking by adding hot sauce or more chili powder. This chili gets better as it sits, making it perfect for leftovers!
7. Sweet and Sour Flank Steak
Ready for a delicious twist? This sweet and sour flank steak recipe pairs tender beef with a delightful balance of tangy and sweet flavors. The slow cooker makes it easy to create a sauce that’s perfect for steamed rice or noodles, ensuring a hit at the dinner table!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak, cut into chunks
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, mix together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and ketchup.
2. Add the flank steak, bell pepper, and onion, mixing well.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours or until the steak is tender.
4. Serve over rice or noodles with extra sauce.
Add crushed red pepper for an extra kick. The pineapple adds a lovely sweetness that balances the savory flavors beautifully.
How To Choose Flank Steak Recipes for Your Crock Pot
When it comes to cooking flank steak in a crock pot, you want to create dishes that are flavorful, tender, and easy to prepare. Choosing the right recipe makes all the difference for busy families wanting delicious meals with minimal effort. Here are some key factors to consider as you select flank steak recipes for your slow cooker.
1. Flavor Profile
Think about the flavors your family enjoys. Do you lean towards savory, spicy, or sweet dishes? Recipes like BBQ Flank Steak Tacos or Teriyaki Flank Steak provide bold tastes, while Classic Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Garlic and Herbs offers a more traditional flavor. Select recipes that align with your family’s preferences for maximum satisfaction at the dinner table.
2. Cooking Time
Different recipes have varying cooking times in the crock pot. Most flank steak recipes require 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. If your family has a packed schedule, choose recipes that fit well with your day. For instance, a hearty Flank Steak Chili can simmer all day, while a quick Sweet and Sour Flank Steak can be ready in just over four hours. Prioritize recipes that fit your timing needs without compromising flavor.
3. Ingredients on Hand
Look for recipes that utilize ingredients you already have in your pantry or fridge. This not only saves you money but also reduces the hassle of running to the grocery store. If you usually stock up on staples like tomatoes, garlic, and spices, recipes like Flank Steak with Tomato Sauce or Mushroom Gravy may be ideal. The fewer extra ingredients, the better!
4. Meal Versatility
Consider how versatile each recipe is. Can you serve the flank steak in different ways? Dishes like Flank Steak Fajitas or Mediterranean Flank Steak with Couscous offer flexibility for leftovers. You can use the meat in tacos, salads, or sandwiches throughout the week. Choosing recipes that allow for multiple meals can save time and keep dinner exciting.
5. Dietary Needs
Be mindful of any dietary restrictions or preferences your family may have. If someone is gluten-free, steer clear of recipes that require soy sauce or certain marinades. If health is a priority, consider recipes that focus on lean ingredients and fresh vegetables, such as Flank Steak with Lemon and Capers or Mediterranean Flank Steak. Adjusting recipes to meet dietary needs will ensure everyone enjoys dinner together.
6. Level of Preparation
Some recipes require more prep work than others. If you’re short on time, look for easy flank steak recipes that emphasize convenience. Dishes like Flank Steak with Chimichurri can be prepped quickly and require minimal ingredients. On the other hand, recipes that involve marinating overnight or intricate steps may take up more time. Always choose recipes that fit your current mood and schedule.
Pro Tip: Keep a collection of your favorite flank steak recipes in a binder or digital folder. This way, you can easily find them when you’re in a pinch or need inspiration for your next family meal. Having a go-to list saves time and ensures you always have delicious options at your fingertips!
By considering these factors, you can confidently choose the perfect flank steak recipes for your crock pot. Each meal can become a delightful experience that satisfies your family’s taste buds while fitting seamlessly into your busy lifestyle. Get ready to enjoy bold, beefy flavors with minimal effort!
8. Mediterranean Flank Steak with Couscous
Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this delightful flank steak dish! Marinated in bold flavors like garlic, lemon, and herbs, the steak is slow-cooked to perfection. Serve it over fluffy couscous with a sprinkle of feta cheese for a meal that will impress your family!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh oregano
– 1 cup couscous
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano. Marinate the flank steak for at least 2 hours.
2. Place the marinated steak in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours.
3. Prepare couscous according to package instructions.
4. Serve the sliced steak over couscous topped with crumbled feta cheese.
This dish is refreshing and great for summer dinners. Pair with a side salad to add more greens to your meal.
9. Flank Steak and Mushroom Risotto
Indulge in a creamy risotto that features tender flank steak and rich mushrooms. The slow cooker does the hard work, creating a luxurious, comforting dish that feels gourmet. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress guests!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak, chopped
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the chopped flank steak, Arborio rice, beef broth, mushrooms, and onion.
2. Cook on low for 6 hours until the rice is creamy and the steak is tender.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese before serving.
Stir occasionally if possible for a creamier texture. This dish is rich and filling, perfect for cozy nights in.
10. Flank Steak with Chimichurri
Brighten up your meals with flank steak served alongside vibrant chimichurri sauce. This fresh, green sauce made from parsley, garlic, and vinegar perfectly complements the savory beef, creating a dish that’s both beautiful and delicious. It’s ideal for summer barbecues or whenever you crave a burst of flavor!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1 cup parsley, finely chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper and place it in the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours until tender.
3. In a bowl, mix together parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar to create the chimichurri.
4. Slice the steak and serve topped with the chimichurri sauce.
This dish is great for meal prep and can be enjoyed in sandwiches or salads as leftovers. Adjust the chimichurri ingredients to your taste for a customized sauce.
11. Flank Steak with Balsamic Glaze
Experience the delightful balance of sweet and tangy with this flank steak recipe featuring a balsamic glaze. Slow-cooked to perfection, the steak becomes tender while the glaze elevates its natural flavors. It’s an easy yet elegant option for family dinners or entertaining guests, especially when paired with seasonal vegetables!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper and place it in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and olive oil. Pour over the flank steak.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours until the steak is tender.
4. Serve garnished with a drizzle of the glaze.
For added flavor, sear the steak before slow cooking. This dish is exceptional when served with roasted potatoes or steamed asparagus.
Turn supper into a crowd-pleaser: slow-cooked flank steak with balsamic glaze stays tender and flavorful. For those chasing flank steak recipes crock pot, this easy, hands-off dish delivers elegance on weeknights.
12. Flank Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Indulge in comfort food at its best with flank steak served in a rich mushroom gravy. The slow cooker makes this dish easy, ensuring the steak is tender and the gravy is thick and flavorful. Serve it over mashed potatoes or noodles for a hearty meal that will have everyone reaching for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place flank steak in the slow cooker and add mushrooms, onion, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup.
2. Season with salt and pepper, then stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 8 hours until the meat is tender and the gravy is thick.
4. Serve over mashed potatoes or noodles.
For a richer flavor, sauté the onions and mushrooms before adding them to the slow cooker. This meal is particularly comforting on cold days.
13. Teriyaki Flank Steak
Bring a taste of the Far East to your kitchen with teriyaki flank steak. This simple marinade highlights juicy beef alongside a sweet and savory sauce. Once slow-cooked, serve it over rice or stir-fried vegetables for a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare on a busy weeknight!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 cup broccoli florets
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil. Marinate the flank steak for at least 1 hour.
2. Place the marinated steak in the slow cooker and add broccoli florets.
3. Cook on low for 6 hours until tender.
4. Serve over rice and drizzle with extra sauce.
For a touch of texture, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of stir-fried veggies.
Weeknights used to feel chaotic, until I found flank steak recipes crock pot that actually deliver. Teriyaki flank steak in the slow cooker makes dinner start tender, finish tasty—no last-minute panic. Your family will ask for it again and again.
14. Flank Steak Bolognese
Reimagine a classic Italian Bolognese sauce with flank steak for a hearty twist. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld perfectly, creating a rich sauce that’s perfect over your favorite pasta. This dish is not only filling but bursting with flavor, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak, ground
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine ground flank steak, crushed tomatoes, onion, carrots, celery, and Italian seasoning.
2. Cook on low for 8 hours.
3. Serve over pasta with freshly grated cheese on top.
Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. This sauce freezes well, making it great for meal prep.
15. Flank Steak with Lemon and Capers
Brighten up your dinner routine with flank steak drizzled in zesty lemon and caper sauce. This light yet filling dish comes together quickly and is perfect for busy nights. The slow cooker ensures the steak remains tender while the sauce infuses delicious flavors!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 3 tablespoons capers
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper and place it in the slow cooker.
2. In a bowl, whisk together lemon juice and capers, and pour over the steak.
3. Add butter to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours until the steak is tender.
5. Serve with steamed veggies or over rice.
This dish is light and refreshing, making it excellent for summer meals. Pair with a crisp salad to balance the flavors.
16. Flank Steak Poutine
For a fun twist, indulge in flank steak poutine! This dish combines tender flank steak with crispy fries, smothered in rich gravy and topped with squeaky cheese curds. Perfect for a casual meal or game day snack, it’s a comfort food explosion that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs flank steak
– 1 bag frozen fries
– 2 cups beef gravy
– 1 cup cheese curds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Season the flank steak with salt and pepper and place in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours until tender.
2. Prepare fries according to package instructions.
3. Once the steak is cooked, shred it and mix with beef gravy.
4. Serve the fries topped with the steak and gravy, then sprinkle cheese curds on top.
This dish is best served hot and fresh, making it perfect for entertaining or casual dinners.
Fun fact: 2 lbs flank steak, crispy fries, and gravy make a poutine that fans rave about in under 30 minutes. It’s a bold, cozy twist—perfect for busy families and game days, and it pairs nicely with flank steak recipes crock pot ideas.
Conclusion
These 16 flank steak recipes prove that you can create diverse and delicious meals with minimal effort thanks to your trusty crock pot. Whether you’re looking for something spicy, sweet, or savory, there’s a recipe here to suit every taste bud in your family. The slow cooker not only simplifies meal prep but also ensures that your beef turns out tender and flavorful every time. Give these recipes a try, and enjoy the smiles at your dinner table!
Experiment with flavors, and don’t hesitate to tweak the recipes to fit your family’s preferences. After all, the best meals come from the heart!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes flank steak a great choice for crock pot dinners?
Flank steak is budget-friendly, lean, and flavorful, and when cooked in a crock pot it becomes incredibly tender. Slow cooking lets the fibers break down without drying out, perfect for busy families. To start, whisk a simple marinade with garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, and a touch of sweetness, then add broth or crushed tomatoes. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours (or HIGH 3–4 hours), then slice thin against the grain for the best texture. This approach fits well with flank steak recipes crock pot, slow cooker flank steak, and easy flank steak recipes you’ll love.
How can I ensure tender flank steak in slow cooker recipes?
For fork-tender results, trim excess fat, choose the right cut size, and cut the meat thin across the grain. A short marinade with a bit of acid (like citrus or vinegars) helps break down fibers, and while optional, searing the outside adds depth of flavor. Cook on LOW 6–8 hours (or HIGH 3–4 hours) with enough liquid to come halfway up the meat, then rest and slice against the grain. You’ll often hear this described as a tender flank steak meals payoff in crock pot beef dishes and other hearty beef recipes.
What are some easy crock pot flank steak recipes for busy weeknights?
Try a few reliable flavor combinations you can mix and match: a soy-ginger glaze with onions for a savory profile; a smoky chipotle-lime sauce with peppers; or a rich red-wine mushroom sauce. Each works with easy flank steak recipes and yields tender flank steak meals without babysitting the stove. Serve over rice, mashed potatoes, or quinoa for a complete hearty beef recipes style meal.
How long should I cook flank steak in a slow cooker and how should I slice it?
Aim for a low-and-slow approach: cook on LOW 6–8 hours or HIGH 3–4 hours until the meat shreds with a fork. Let it rest 10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain to keep the slices tender. This technique is a cornerstone of crock pot beef dishes and helps you craft hearty beef recipes with tender flank steak meals every time.
What sides and sauces pair best with slow cooker flank steak meals?
Pair flank steak with fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate. Top with a zingy chimichurri, garlic butter sauce, or a simple salsa to boost bold flavor. These options round out hearty beef recipes and keep your flank steak recipes crock pot menu exciting for busy families.
Related Topics
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