Effortless Elegance: Slow Cooker London Broil Recipes for Delicious Dinners
London broil, often perceived as a tough cut of beef, can transform into a tender, flavorful masterpiece with the magic of a slow cooker. Forget hours of babysitting a grill; this method is all about set-it-and-forget-it convenience, perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. This blog post will guide you through several delicious slow cooker London broil recipes, complete with detailed instructions, tips, and variations to suit your taste. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right cut to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
## What is London Broil?
Before diving into the recipes, let’s clarify what we’re working with. London broil isn’t actually a specific cut of beef but rather a method of preparing it. The name refers to broiling (or grilling) a relatively lean cut of beef and then slicing it thinly against the grain. While traditionally top round or flank steak are used, for the slow cooker, we primarily focus on top round due to its ability to become incredibly tender with prolonged, low-temperature cooking.
**Why Choose Slow Cooker London Broil?**
The slow cooker is a game-changer for London broil. Here’s why:
* **Tenderizes Tough Cuts:** The low and slow cooking process breaks down tough muscle fibers, resulting in remarkably tender meat.
* **Enhances Flavor:** The long cooking time allows the meat to absorb the flavors of the marinade or braising liquid, creating a deeply rich and savory dish.
* **Convenience:** Simply prep the ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and let it do its thing. Perfect for busy lifestyles!
* **Budget-Friendly:** Top round is generally a more affordable cut of beef, making this a cost-effective way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
## Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
While “London broil” often implies flank steak, for slow cooking, **top round** is the preferred choice. Look for a top round roast that is at least 1-2 inches thick. Some marbling (flecks of fat within the meat) is desirable, as it contributes to flavor and moisture, but avoid cuts that are overly fatty, as they can become greasy during slow cooking. Ask your butcher for assistance if you’re unsure.
## Essential Slow Cooker Equipment
* **Slow Cooker (Crock-Pot):** A 6-quart or larger slow cooker is recommended.
* **Cutting Board:** For prepping vegetables and slicing the cooked London broil.
* **Sharp Knife:** Essential for trimming excess fat and slicing the meat.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate ingredient measurements.
* **Tongs:** For handling the hot meat and vegetables.
* **Meat Thermometer (Optional):** To ensure the meat is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
## Recipe 1: Classic Slow Cooker London Broil
This recipe is a simple and flavorful starting point. It utilizes a basic marinade and slow cooking to create a tender and delicious London broil.
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 lb Top Round Roast (London Broil)
* 1 large Onion, sliced
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
* 1/4 cup Worcestershire Sauce
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
* 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard
* 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 1/2 cup Beef Broth
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, dried thyme, and black pepper.
2. **Marinate the Beef:** Place the top round roast in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful and tender the beef will be.
3. **Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended):** While not strictly necessary, searing the beef before slow cooking adds a rich, caramelized flavor and helps to seal in the juices. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and pat it dry with paper towels. Sear the beef on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
4. **Assemble the Slow Cooker:** Place the sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. This will create a bed for the beef and prevent it from sticking. Place the seared (or unseared) beef roast on top of the onions.
5. **Add Liquids:** Pour the reserved marinade and beef broth over the beef.
6. **Slow Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for doneness after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high. The internal temperature of the beef should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, or 170°F (77°C) for well-done. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.
7. **Rest and Slice:** Once the beef is cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.
8. **Slice Against the Grain:** Use a sharp knife to slice the London broil thinly against the grain. This is crucial for maximizing tenderness. The grain refers to the direction of the muscle fibers. Look closely at the meat and slice perpendicular to the direction of the fibers.
9. **Serve:** Serve the sliced London broil with the cooking liquid from the slow cooker, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite sides.
## Recipe 2: Slow Cooker London Broil with Balsamic Glaze
This recipe adds a touch of sweetness and acidity with a balsamic glaze, creating a sophisticated and flavorful dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 lb Top Round Roast (London Broil)
* 1 large Onion, sliced
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar
* 1/4 cup Soy Sauce
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
* 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar
* 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 1/2 cup Beef Broth
**For the Balsamic Glaze (Optional):**
* 1/2 cup Balsamic Vinegar
* 1 tablespoon Honey or Maple Syrup (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Marinade:** In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, minced garlic, dried rosemary, and black pepper.
2. **Marinate the Beef:** Place the top round roast in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
3. **Sear the Beef (Optional):** Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and pat it dry with paper towels. Sear the beef on all sides for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
4. **Assemble the Slow Cooker:** Place the sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seared (or unseared) beef roast on top of the onions.
5. **Add Liquids:** Pour the reserved marinade and beef broth over the beef.
6. **Slow Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Check for doneness as described in Recipe 1.
7. **Make the Balsamic Glaze (Optional):** While the beef is resting, prepare the balsamic glaze. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey or maple syrup (if using). Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly. Be careful not to burn it.
8. **Rest and Slice:** Remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
9. **Slice Against the Grain:** Slice the London broil thinly against the grain.
10. **Serve:** Serve the sliced London broil drizzled with the balsamic glaze (if using) and the cooking liquid from the slow cooker. Serve with your favorite sides.
## Recipe 3: Slow Cooker London Broil with Mushroom Gravy
This recipe creates a rich and savory mushroom gravy that complements the tender London broil perfectly. This is a hearty and comforting meal, ideal for colder weather.
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 lb Top Round Roast (London Broil)
* 1 large Onion, sliced
* 8 oz Mushrooms, sliced
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
* 1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
* 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 2 cups Beef Broth
* 1/4 cup Dry Red Wine (Optional)
* 2 tablespoons Butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear the Beef (Recommended):** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the top round roast on all sides until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
2. **Sauté the Vegetables:** Add the sliced onions and mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. **Make the Gravy:** Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy has thickened slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Season with thyme and pepper.
4. **Assemble the Slow Cooker:** Pour the mushroom gravy into the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seared beef roast on top of the gravy.
5. **Slow Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Check for doneness as described in Recipe 1.
6. **Finish the Gravy:** Remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Stir the butter into the gravy in the slow cooker to enrich the flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
7. **Slice Against the Grain:** Slice the London broil thinly against the grain.
8. **Serve:** Serve the sliced London broil with the mushroom gravy spooned over the top. Serve with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice.
## Recipe 4: Slow Cooker London Broil with Italian Herbs
This recipe infuses the London broil with classic Italian flavors, creating a flavorful and aromatic dish.
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 lb Top Round Roast (London Broil)
* 1 large Onion, sliced
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 1 (14.5 oz) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
* 1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
* 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning
* 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
* 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (Optional, for a little heat)
* 1/2 cup Beef Broth
**Instructions:**
1. **Sear the Beef (Optional):** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the top round roast on all sides until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
2. **Assemble the Slow Cooker:** Place the sliced onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seared (or unseared) beef roast on top of the onions.
3. **Add Ingredients:** In a bowl, combine the diced tomatoes (with their juice), red wine vinegar, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, dried oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Pour this mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. Add the beef broth.
4. **Slow Cook:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Check for doneness as described in Recipe 1.
5. **Rest and Slice:** Remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
6. **Slice Against the Grain:** Slice the London broil thinly against the grain.
7. **Serve:** Serve the sliced London broil with the tomato sauce from the slow cooker. Serve over pasta, polenta, or with crusty bread for dipping.
## Recipe 5: Spicy Slow Cooker London Broil with Chipotle Peppers
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this recipe incorporates chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky and spicy flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 2-3 lb Top Round Roast (London Broil)
* 1 large Onion, chopped
* 2 cloves Garlic, minced
* 2 Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce, minced (adjust to taste for spiciness)
* 1 tablespoon Adobo Sauce (from the can of chipotle peppers)
* 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
* 1/2 teaspoon Cumin
* 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
* 1/4 cup Apple Cider Vinegar
* 1/2 cup Beef Broth
* 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
* Salt and Pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Spice Rub:** In a bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. **Rub the Beef:** Rub the spice mixture all over the surface of the top round roast.
3. **Sear the Beef (Recommended):** Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned. Remove from the skillet.
4. **Assemble the Slow Cooker:** Place the chopped onions in the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the seared beef on top of the onions. Mince the chipotle peppers (remove seeds for less heat). In a separate bowl combine the minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, minced garlic, and apple cider vinegar, then pour mixture over the beef.
5. **Add Liquids:** Pour beef broth over the beef and remaining ingredients in the slow cooker.
6. **Slow Cook:** Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is very tender. Check for doneness as described in Recipe 1.
7. **Shred or Slice and Serve:** Remove the beef from the slow cooker. You can either shred it with two forks for a pulled beef option, or slice it against the grain. Serve with your favorite toppings such as shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, cilantro, and lime wedges. Excellent for tacos, burritos, bowls, or sandwiches.
## Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker London Broil
* **Don’t Overcook:** Overcooked London broil, even in a slow cooker, can become dry and tough. Check for doneness regularly after 6 hours on low or 3 hours on high.
* **Sear for Flavor:** Searing the beef before slow cooking adds a significant boost of flavor. Don’t skip this step if you have the time.
* **Marinate for Tenderness:** Marinating the beef helps to tenderize it and infuse it with flavor. Aim for at least 4 hours of marinating time, or preferably overnight.
* **Slice Against the Grain:** This is the most important step for ensuring tenderness. Always slice the London broil thinly against the grain.
* **Rest the Meat:** Letting the beef rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result. Don’t skip this step!
* **Thicken the Sauce (If Desired):** If you want a thicker sauce, you can whisk together 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat until it thickens.
* **Add Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker along with the onions, such as carrots, potatoes, or celery. Add root vegetables at the beginning of the cooking time, and more delicate vegetables (like broccoli or bell peppers) during the last hour of cooking.
* **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the cooking liquid and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to achieve the desired flavor.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** To ensure your London broil is cooked to the correct internal temperature, use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bone.
* **Don’t overcrowd the slow cooker:** If you’re making a large batch, it’s best to cook in batches to ensure even cooking.
## Serving Suggestions
Slow cooker London broil is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **Classic Dinner:** Serve sliced London broil with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and the cooking liquid from the slow cooker.
* **Sandwiches:** Use the sliced London broil to make sandwiches or sliders with your favorite toppings.
* **Tacos or Burritos:** Shred the London broil and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
* **Salads:** Top a salad with sliced London broil for a protein-packed and flavorful meal.
* **Grain Bowls:** Create a grain bowl with quinoa, brown rice, or other grains, topped with sliced London broil and your favorite vegetables and sauces.
* **Pasta Dishes:** Add sliced London broil to pasta dishes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
## Storage and Reheating
* **Storage:** Leftover slow cooker London broil can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** To reheat, gently warm the sliced London broil in a skillet over low heat with a little bit of the cooking liquid. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
## Slow Cooker London Broil Variations
* **Asian-Inspired:** Use a marinade of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
* **Mexican-Inspired:** Use a marinade of chili powder, cumin, oregano, and lime juice.
* **Garlic Herb:** Use a marinade of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and parsley.
* **BBQ:** Use your favorite BBQ sauce as a marinade and cooking liquid.
* **French Dip:** Serve the sliced London broil on crusty rolls with au jus (the cooking liquid) for dipping.
## Conclusion
Slow cooker London broil is a fantastic way to transform a relatively inexpensive cut of beef into a tender, flavorful, and satisfying meal. With minimal effort, you can create a delicious dinner that your family will love. Experiment with different marinades, sauces, and serving suggestions to find your favorite combination. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy the effortless elegance of slow cooker London broil!