This Slow Cooker Flank Steak is the ultimate solution for busy home cooks craving a tender flank steak dinner with minimal effort. With only five minutes of prep, your slow cooker takes over, transforming affordable flank steak into melt-in-your-mouth perfection with a savory, slightly spicy sauce that’s completely irresistible.

Why spend hours in the kitchen when this easy slow cooker beef recipe does all the heavy lifting for you? Whether it’s a packed weeknight or you’re entertaining, flank steak in a crockpot is the kind of dish that makes you look like a pro without breaking a sweat.

Why This Slow Cooker Flank Steak Is a Game-Changer

Time Saver: Traditional steak recipes might have you babysitting the stovetop or oven, but this slow cooker version is completely hands-off for 7 hours. Set it and forget it!
Budget-Friendly: Flank steak is economical yet tastes like a premium cut when slow-cooked.
Maximum Flavor: The sauce, infused with soy sauce, smoky paprika, and honey, seeps into the steak to create rich, bold flavors.
Foolproof Method: Even if you’re new to cooking, this recipe delivers tender results every time.
Multi-Tasking Hero: Use the hands-off cooking time to tackle your to-do list—or just relax!

Equipment You’ll Need for This Slow Cooker Flank Steak

To make this recipe, you’ll need a dependable slow cooker. I use a basic 6-quart crockpot, but any size that fits your flank steak works. Here are my top equipment tips:

Opt for a programmable slow cooker with a timer to switch to “warm” mode once cooking is done—no overcooking worries here.
If your slow cooker tends to run hot, check the steak an hour early to ensure it doesn’t dry out.
A sharp chef’s knife is essential for slicing the steak thinly against the grain—this guarantees tender bites.

Simple Ingredients for Slow Cooker Flank Steak

This recipe keeps the ingredient list simple yet flavorful. Here’s what makes it shine:

Flank Steak: The star of the dish! If unavailable, sub in skirt steak or chuck roast for similar results.
Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Adds savory depth without overwhelming saltiness.
Honey: Balances the soy and tomato paste with a touch of natural sweetness.
Smoked Paprika: Creates a subtle smoky background flavor—don’t skip this!

Quick shopping tip: If you’re tight on time, grab pre-sliced onions or use minced garlic from a jar to save even more prep time.

Slow Cooker Flank Steak Recipe Details

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours (hands-off)
Total Time: 7 hours 5 minutes

Slow Cooker Flank Steak Ingredients

2 pounds beef flank steak
1 onion, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic
½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
¼ cup beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make Slow Cooker Flank Steak

Season the flank steak generously with salt and black pepper on both sides.
In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, honey, Worcestershire sauce, coriander, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Place sliced onions and whole garlic cloves on the bottom of your slow cooker.
Lay the seasoned flank steak on top of the onions and garlic.
Pour the prepared sauce over the steak, making sure it’s evenly coated.
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the steak is fork-tender.
Carefully remove the steak and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain into thin strips.
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes (optional), spooning the sauce over the steak. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Jake’s Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Flank Steak

Marinate for Extra Flavor: Got 30 extra minutes? Let the steak marinate in the sauce before cooking for even deeper flavor.
Don’t Skip Resting Time: Resting the steak for a few minutes before slicing keeps it juicy.
Sauce Leftovers = Liquid Gold: Save extra sauce to drizzle over rice or use as a gravy for mashed potatoes.
Batch Cooking: Make double the recipe to have leftovers for sandwiches, tacos, or meal prep bowls.
Reheat Like a Pro: Warm up leftovers with some of the reserved sauce in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain tenderness.

Easy Slow Cooker Flank Steak Variations

BBQ-Style: Swap soy sauce and Worcestershire for barbecue sauce for a smoky, tangy twist. Perfect for shredded beef sandwiches!
Mexican-Inspired: Add 1 teaspoon cumin and 1 cup salsa to the sauce. Serve with tortillas and guacamole.
Veggie Boost: Toss in baby carrots, diced bell peppers, or sliced mushrooms for a built-in side dish.
Low-Carb Swap: Skip mashed potatoes and serve the steak over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Slow Cooker Flank Steak FAQs

How do I know when the flank steak is done?

Flank steak is ready when it’s tender enough to shred with a fork. If it’s not there yet, let it cook for another 30 minutes and check again.

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely. Skirt steak, chuck roast, or even top sirloin work well and stay tender in the slow cooker.

Why is my steak tough?

Flank steak becomes tough if undercooked or overcooked. Stick to the recommended time and slice against the grain for best results.

Can I double the recipe in one slow cooker?

Yes, as long as the steak isn’t overcrowded. Layering is fine, but leave room for heat circulation.

Is it spicy?

The red pepper flakes add a mild kick. Adjust to taste or omit them if you prefer a non-spicy version.

There you have it! A foolproof recipe for Slow Cooker Flank Steak that’s bound to become your new weeknight favorite. What’s your favorite kitchen shortcut? Let me know in the comments below!