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Slow Cooker Flank Steak with Spicy Brown Sugar and Smoky Paprika Rub Recipe


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4.4 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes to 5 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Description

This Slow Cooker Flank Steak recipe offers a tender, flavorful meal perfect for a hands-off cooking experience. The flank steak is rubbed with a smoky, spicy blend of brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, and other spices, then slow-cooked to juicy perfection. Ideal for a hearty dinner, this dish serves six and requires minimal prep.


Ingredients

Spice Rub

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon granulated garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Main

  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 2 pounds flank steak


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, thoroughly mix together the brown sugar, chili powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, granulated garlic powder, and kosher salt until well combined to create a balanced and flavorful rub.
  2. Apply the Rub to Steak: Sprinkle half of the spice mixture onto one side of the flank steak, pressing it in so the spices adhere well. Flip the steak over and apply the remaining rub on the other side, pressing firmly to ensure full coverage.
  3. Prepare Slow Cooker: Add the olive oil to the inside of a 6-quart slow cooker and rub it around to coat the surface evenly, preventing sticking and enhancing flavor.
  4. Place Steak in Cooker: Place the seasoned flank steak inside the slow cooker and cover with the lid to retain moisture during cooking.
  5. Cook the Steak: Cook on high heat for 3-4 hours or on low heat for 4-5 hours until the steak is very tender. Avoid uncovering during the cooking process to maintain consistent temperature and moisture. If the steak is not tender at the end of the cook time, it needs additional cooking.
  6. Slice and Serve: Carefully remove the steak from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Slice the flank steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve with the strained accumulated juices from the slow cooker for added moisture and flavor.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, you can marinate the steak with the rub for 1-2 hours before cooking.
  • If the steak isn’t tender after the initial cook time, continue cooking for 30-minute increments until desired tenderness is reached.
  • Slice against the grain to ensure the steak stays tender and easy to chew.
  • Leftover steak can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 to 5 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American