Chipotle peppers and flank steak are a match made in culinary heaven. The smoky heat of chipotle peppers combined with the tender, fall-apart goodness of slow-cooked flank steak makes for an unforgettable meal. This Spicy Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef is perfect for taco fillings, served over rice, or paired with your favorite potato dish. The beef absorbs all the rich, spicy flavors of the sauce, making every bite a delight. Whether you’re a spice lover or just looking for a delicious slow cooker recipe, this dish will not disappoint.
Introduction to Spicy Slow Cooker Chipotle Beef
Slow cookers are a lifesaver for busy days, allowing you to prepare hearty and flavorful meals with minimal effort. This recipe combines the robust flavor of chipotle peppers with the tender texture of flank steak, creating a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. While many recipes simply shred the meat for tacos, this one takes it a step further by thickening the sauce with cornstarch, offering a rich and spicy gravy perfect for serving over rice or potatoes.
Ingredients
- 1 (3-pound) flank steak, scored
- 1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
- 2 canned chipotle peppers, with 1 tablespoon of extra adobo sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Flank Steak
Start by generously seasoning both sides of the flank steak with salt. Scoring the steak (making shallow cuts across the grain) helps the flavors penetrate more deeply and makes the meat even more tender.
Step 2: Setting Up the Slow Cooker
Place the seasoned flank steak at the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the canned chipotle peppers along with 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce and the beef broth.
Step 3: Mixing the Cornstarch
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth. Whisk this mixture into the slow cooker to help thicken the sauce as it cooks.
Step 4: Slow Cooking
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7 hours or on high for 4 hours. The low and slow method is preferred for the most tender, flavorful results.
Step 5: Shredding the Beef
After the cooking time is up, remove the flank steak from the slow cooker. Keep the lid on to maintain the heat in the cooker. Using two forks, shred the flank steak into bite-sized pieces.
Step 6: Combining and Serving
Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker and mix it with the sauce. Taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Serve the chipotle beef hot, either in tacos, over rice, or with your favorite potato dish.
