Imagine coming home to a kitchen filled with the mouthwatering aroma of tender, slow-cooked steak swimming in a rich, herb-infused tomato sauce. This Crock Pot Tomato Steak is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that transforms ordinary beef into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy that will have your family begging for seconds. With minimal prep time and the magic of slow cooking, you'll create a restaurant-quality dish that proves sometimes the simplest recipes are the most extraordinary.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef steak
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the beef steak by trimming any excess fat and cutting it into large chunks approximately 2-3 inches in size.
- Season the steak pieces generously with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Peel and slice the onion into thin rings, and mince the garlic cloves finely.
- Open the can of crushed tomatoes and pour it into the crock pot.
- Add the sliced onions and minced garlic to the crushed tomatoes in the crock pot.
- Sprinkle dried basil and dried oregano over the tomato mixture, stirring to distribute the herbs evenly.
- Place the seasoned steak chunks into the tomato sauce, gently pressing them down to ensure they are partially covered.
- Cover the crock pot with its lid and set to low heat setting.
- Cook the steak for 8 hours, allowing the meat to become tender and absorb the tomato sauce flavors.
- After cooking time is complete, carefully remove the steak pieces and check for desired tenderness.
- Optional: Use a fork to slightly shred the meat if a more pulled texture is desired.
- Serve hot, spooning extra tomato sauce over the steak, and pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: For the most tender result, opt for chuck steak, bottom round, or blade steak - these cuts are perfect for slow cooking.
- Sear Before Slow Cooking: For an extra layer of flavor, quickly brown the steak chunks in a hot pan before adding to the crock pot to enhance the meat's depth of flavor.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure the steak pieces are not too tightly packed, allowing the tomato sauce to circulate and tenderize the meat evenly.
- Herb Fresh Alternative: If you have fresh basil or oregano, use 1 tablespoon of fresh herbs instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor profile.
- Sauce Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last hour of cooking or use a cornstarch slurry to adjust the consistency.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance and reheat for an effortless meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 275kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: 32g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 80mg
