Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of a perfectly cooked roast, so tender it practically melts in your mouth. This Crock Pot London Broil with luscious au jus delivers exactly that experience, requiring minimal effort and just ten minutes of prep time. Slow-cooked to perfection, this savory beef roast is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it as a hearty main course with your favorite sides like creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, or transform it into an exquisite sandwich, generously dipped in its own rich, savory juices. It’s the ultimate solution for a comforting, flavor-packed meal on any busy day.

This recipe is designed for ultimate convenience. Simply set it up in the morning, and let your slow cooker do all the work, transforming a lean cut of beef into a fall-apart tender masterpiece by dinner time. The resulting drippings are pure gold – perfect for a simple, savory au jus for dipping, or easily turned into a rich, homemade gravy. If you happen to have any delicious leftovers, don’t miss out on creating another fantastic meal with our Leftover London Broil Recipe, ideal for stir-fries or hearty sandwiches.

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Essential Ingredients for Tender Crock Pot London Broil

Creating this incredibly tender London Broil is straightforward, requiring just a few key ingredients that work together to maximize flavor and juiciness. Here’s what you’ll need:

• London Broil Roast: While “London Broil” traditionally refers to a cooking method (marinating and grilling), it has evolved to describe a specific cut of beef. You’ll typically find top round or flank steak labeled as London Broil at your butcher or grocery store. These are lean, flavorful cuts that truly shine when slow-cooked. The slow cooking process tenderizes the meat beautifully, eliminating the need for extensive marinating because the roast cooks immersed in its own flavorful juices for an extended period, resulting in incredible tenderness and moisture.
• Salt & Pepper: Simple yet essential seasonings. They form the flavor foundation, enhancing the natural taste of the beef. Adjust quantities to your personal preference for a perfectly seasoned roast.
• Fresh Garlic: Sliced fresh garlic cloves are strategically inserted into small slits in the roast. This method allows the pungent, aromatic garlic flavor to permeate deep into the meat as it cooks, infusing every bite with deliciousness.
• Onion: Yellow onions are our preferred choice for this recipe due to their balanced sweetness and ability to break down beautifully during slow cooking, contributing significantly to the savory au jus. However, sweet Vidalia onions can also be used for a slightly milder, sweeter flavor profile.
• Soy Sauce or Tamari: This ingredient adds a crucial umami depth and a hint of saltiness to the au jus. We highly recommend using tamari over traditional soy sauce. Tamari is fermented for a longer period, resulting in a richer, less salty taste with a more profound umami flavor. It’s also a fantastic gluten-free alternative if you’re catering to dietary restrictions. For larger quantities, like marinades, soy sauce might be more cost-effective, but for this recipe, tamari elevates the flavor profile significantly.
• Water: The water combines with the beef drippings, onions, and soy sauce to create the magnificent au jus that flavors the entire dish and keeps the roast moist and tender throughout the long cooking process.

For precise measurements, please refer to the recipe card below.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Prepare Crock Pot London Broil

Making this incredibly tender London Broil in your slow cooker is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a delicious and hassle-free meal:

Step 1: Season the Roast. Begin by generously seasoning both sides of your London Broil roast with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy; proper seasoning is key to building flavor. Gently rub the seasonings into the meat to ensure an even coating.

Step 2: Infuse with Garlic. Using a sharp knife, make several small, shallow slits (about ½ inch deep) across one side of the seasoned roast. Into each slit, gently insert a slice of fresh garlic. This technique allows the garlic’s savory essence to seep deep into the meat as it slow cooks, creating an incredibly flavorful roast.

Step 3: Layer the Base. Slice your chosen onion thinly. Place approximately half of the sliced onions in an even layer at the bottom of your crock pot. These onions will caramelize and release their sweet, savory juices, forming a flavorful bed for the roast and contributing to the rich au jus.

Step 4: Assemble and Cook. Carefully place the seasoned London Broil roast on top of the onion bed in the crock pot. Pour the water and soy sauce (or tamari) over the roast. Finally, arrange the remaining sliced onions on top of the roast. Cover your crock pot with the lid.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection. Cook the London Broil on the low setting for 8-10 hours. The exact cooking time can vary based on your specific crock pot model and the size of your roast (see our tips below for more details on cooking times). Once cooked, the roast should be incredibly tender and easily pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Rest and Slice. Once the roast is cooked, carefully remove it from the crock pot and place it on a cutting board or serving platter. It’s crucial to let the roast rest until its internal temperature drops to about 120ºF (approximately 15-20 minutes) before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a more tender and juicy result. For optimal slicing, refer to our specific slicing tips below.

Step 7: Serve with Au Jus or Gravy. You can serve this tender London Broil simply “au jus,” meaning in its own savory juices collected in the crock pot. These drippings are incredibly flavorful and perfect for dipping. Alternatively, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can easily make a rich gravy.

To make gravy: In a small bowl, whisk together equal amounts of cornstarch and cool water to form a smooth, lump-free paste (a common ratio is 2 tablespoons of cornstarch to 2 tablespoons of cold water). Pour the drippings from the crock pot into a saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch mixture until smooth. Continue to cook at a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Understanding Crock Pot Cooking Times for Perfect Results

One of the greatest advantages of this Crock Pot London Broil recipe is its minimal active preparation time – typically under 10 minutes. Once prepped, it’s a true “set it and forget it” meal, allowing you to go about your day while dinner slowly cooks to perfection. If you choose to make a gravy, it adds only about 5 minutes to your total hands-on time; otherwise, simply serving it au jus is absolutely delightful.

It’s important to remember that not all slow cookers are created equal. Cooking times can vary significantly based on several factors, including:

• Crock Pot Size: Larger crock pots tend to cook hotter and faster than smaller ones. A 6-quart model will typically cook a roast quicker than a 3-quart model, even with the same roast size.
• Roast Weight: Naturally, a larger, heavier roast will require a longer cooking time compared to a smaller one.
• Brand and Model: Different brands and even different models within the same brand can have variations in heating elements and cooking efficiency.

Because of these variables, the 8-10 hour recommendation on low heat is a general guideline. If you’re aiming for a specific texture – for instance, a roast that holds its shape well for clean slices (perfect for sandwiches or our popular Beef and Broccoli Stir-fry) rather than one that easily shreds – you may need to adjust your cooking time. If cooked too long at a low temperature, most meats will eventually reach a shreddable consistency, regardless of the cut.

To achieve a more firm, sliceable roast, start checking for doneness earlier, perhaps around the 5-6 hour mark. Use a fork to test for tenderness; it should be tender but still hold its structure. If you prefer a truly fall-apart, well-done roast that’s ideal for shredding, the 8-10 hour range on low will likely achieve this.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

• Instant Pot (Slow Cooker Function): You can absolutely use the slow cooker function of an Instant Pot for this recipe. However, be aware that Instant Pots typically heat primarily from the bottom, unlike traditional crock pots which heat from all sides. This can sometimes result in slightly different cooking dynamics, so keep an eye on your roast.
• Dutch Oven in the Oven: For those without a slow cooker or who prefer oven cooking, this London Broil can be successfully made in a covered Dutch oven. Cook it in a slow oven at 250ºF (120ºC) for 2-3 hours. Begin checking for your desired level of tenderness after two hours. This method offers similar low-and-slow benefits, producing a wonderfully tender roast.

Expert Slicing Tips for Tender London Broil

Slicing your London Broil correctly is just as important as cooking it for achieving the most tender and juicy results. Follow these tips to ensure every slice is perfect:

1. Rest the Meat: The Science of Juiciness. After removing the roast from the crock pot, allow it to rest uncovered on a cutting board for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the internal temperature cools to about 120ºF. This step is crucial and scientifically backed. During cooking, the muscle fibers contract, pushing moisture towards the center. If you cut into the hot meat immediately, those juices will rush out, leaving you with a dry roast. Resting allows the muscle fibers to relax and reabsorb the juices, redistributing them evenly throughout the meat. This results in a significantly more tender and succulent experience. Serious Eats’ Food Lab provides excellent insights into the importance of resting meat, confirming 120ºF as an optimal internal temperature for carving.
2. Sharp Knife is Key. A sharp carving knife is indispensable for clean, even slices. If your knife isn’t perfectly sharp, a good serrated knife can also work wonders, gently sawing through the tender meat without tearing it. My personal favorite is an old Quikut multipurpose knife with a white plastic handle, a cherished hand-me-down from my grandmother. These simple, sturdy knives from the 70s are surprisingly effective for carving!
3. Slice Against the Grain. This is perhaps the most important slicing technique for London Broil (and many other lean cuts of beef). The “grain” refers to the direction of the muscle fibers in the meat. Slicing against the grain means cutting perpendicular to these fibers. This shortens the fibers in each slice, making the meat much easier to chew and giving it a more tender mouthfeel. Take a moment to observe your roast; you should be able to see the distinct lines of the muscle fibers.
4. Cold Slicing for Leftovers. For any leftover roast that you plan to use in dishes like stir-fries or thinly sliced sandwiches, it’s best to leave the roast unsliced and store it whole in the refrigerator. Tender meat, especially slow-cooked varieties, maintains its shape much better and is significantly easier to slice thinly and uniformly when cold. Slice it just before you’re ready to prepare your leftover meal, ensuring cleaner cuts and less shredding.

Helpful Substitutions and Dietary Adjustments

This Crock Pot London Broil recipe is quite flexible and can be adapted to various dietary needs or ingredient availability:

• Gluten-Free: The primary ingredient to watch for if you’re following a gluten-free diet is soy sauce. Simply ensure you use a certified gluten-free soy sauce or, as recommended in the ingredient list, opt for tamari, which is naturally gluten-free and offers a richer flavor profile. Beyond that, this recipe is inherently gluten-free.
• Onions: While yellow onions are recommended for their balanced flavor, you can certainly experiment. Sweet Vidalia onions will yield a slightly milder, sweeter au jus. Red onions could be used, but their flavor might be a bit more assertive and they can tint the au jus.
• Beef Broth: If you desire an even richer flavor base for your au jus, you can substitute half or all of the water with low-sodium beef broth. This will deepen the savory notes of the dish.
• Garlic: If fresh garlic isn’t available, you can use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder mixed with the salt and pepper, though fresh is always preferred for maximum flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: While this recipe relies on simple, classic flavors, feel free to add a bay leaf to the crock pot or a pinch of dried thyme or rosemary for an extra layer of aromatic complexity.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

This Crock Pot London Broil is absolutely fantastic as leftovers, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Properly storing your roast ensures its deliciousness for future meals.

• Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover London Broil and its accompanying au jus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. This ensures maximum freshness and prevents spoilage.
• Slicing for Storage: A critical tip for leftovers: **do not slice the entire roast before storing.** As mentioned in our slicing tips, very tender meat holds its shape much better when cold. Additionally, an unsliced roast will retain its moisture more effectively during storage than one that has been pre-sliced. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply remove the portion you need and slice it cold. This will make slicing significantly easier and prevent the meat from shredding unnecessarily due to its tenderness.
• Freezing Instructions: While I rarely have enough leftover slow cooker London Broil to freeze (it’s too delicious!), it freezes exceptionally well if you manage to have some. To preserve its texture and flavor, store the unsliced roast (or portions of it) in an airtight container, preferably vacuum-sealed, along with some of the au jus to keep it moist. It will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with London Broil Au Jus

The rich, savory flavor of Crock Pot London Broil with au jus pairs wonderfully with a variety of classic side dishes. When I prepare this dish, I often lean towards comforting and simple accompaniments that allow the succulent beef to remain the star of the plate. Here are some of my favorite recommendations:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The perfect canvas for soaking up that incredible au jus.
• Fluffy White Rice: Another excellent choice for absorbing the flavorful drippings.
• Roasted or Steamed Green Vegetables: A light, crisp green vegetable provides a refreshing contrast and adds essential nutrients to your meal.

Consider these delightful vegetable sides that complement the London Broil beautifully:

Recipe Card: Crockpot London Broil with Au Jus

Crockpot London Broil with Au Jus

4.18 from 174 votes

This succulent, tender crock pot London broil with au jus is slow-cooked to perfection and only takes ten minutes prep. Cooked low and slow, the roast is perfect as is with rice or potatoes, but it also makes a delicious sandwich with au jus for dipping.

Author
Author:

Mary Ann

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Prep Time

10
minutes

mins

Cook Time

8
hours

hrs

Total Time

8
hours

hrs
10
minutes

mins

Course
Main Dish

Cuisine
American

Servings

6
servings

Calories
207

Ingredients

  

• 2
  pounds
  London broil
• salt and pepper,
  to taste
• 1
  clove
  garlic
• 1
  onion
• ¾
  cup
  water
• 3
  tablespoons
  soy sauce or tamari

Cook Mode

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Instructions

• Season 2 pounds London broil generously with salt and pepper to your taste on all sides.
• Prepare your aromatics by slicing 1 onion and 1 clove of garlic.
• Create small slits (about ½ inch deep) on one side of the roast and insert the garlic slices into each opening.
• Layer about half of the sliced onion at the bottom of your crock-pot. Place the seasoned roast on top of these onions. Pour the ¾ cup water and 3 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari over the roast. Finally, arrange the remaining onion slices over the top of the roast.
• Cover the crock pot and cook on the low setting for approximately 8-10 hours. Please note that cooking times can vary significantly depending on your individual crock pot and roast size, so refer to our detailed tips above for guidance.
• Once the roast is tender, carefully remove it from the crock pot and place it on a serving platter or cutting board. Allow it to rest until the internal temperature reaches about 120°F (typically 15-20 minutes) before slicing, ensuring a juicier result.
• Serve the London Broil with its flavorful juices (au jus) for dipping, or proceed to make a rich gravy if preferred.
• To prepare the gravy: In a small bowl, blend 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to form a smooth paste (known as a slurry). Pour the drippings from the crock pot into a saucepan over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the cornstarch mixture until smooth and lump-free. Continue to simmer, stirring frequently, until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.

Chef’s Notes & Tips

1. For the cleanest and most tender slices, ensure your carving knife is very sharp. Alternatively, a serrated knife can be highly effective.
2. If you plan to use leftover London Broil in stir-fries or other dishes requiring thin, firm slices, avoid slicing the entire roast while it’s hot. The meat will hold its shape better and be much easier to slice evenly when it’s cold. Store the unsliced roast in the refrigerator and slice just before using.
3. When preparing the gravy, always use cool or cold water to mix with the cornstarch to create a smooth slurry. Hot water will cause the cornstarch to clump instantly, making it difficult to achieve a smooth gravy.
4. For those following a gluten-free diet, double-check that your soy sauce is explicitly labeled gluten-free, or opt for tamari, which is a naturally gluten-free and flavorful alternative.
5. Don’t let any leftovers go to waste! Our popular Beef and Broccoli Stir-fry recipe is an excellent way to repurpose tender London Broil, transforming it into another quick and delicious meal.

Nutrition per serving

Calories:
207
cal


Carbohydrates:
2
g


Protein:
35
g


Fat:
5
g


Sodium:
511
mg

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