Easy Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe – Tender & Flavorful Comfort Food

When winter winds blow, nothing beats the smell of a slow-cooked meal at home. My family’s slow cooker cube steak recipe is the perfect comfort. It’s tender beef in a rich, savory gravy that warms the heart.

This dish was a favorite in our home. Just hearing about it takes me back to the kitchen. The mix of tender steak, aromatic onions, and creamy gravy is unbeatable.

What is Cube Steak and Why It’s Perfect for Slow Cooking

Cube steak is a budget-friendly beef cut great for slow cooking. It comes from the shoulder or top sirloin. The meat is tenderized, creating small “cubes” on its surface.

Understanding Cube Steak Cuts

Cube steak is a cost-effective option for cooking at home. The tenderizing process softens the meat. This makes it perfect for slow cooking, like in our Slow Cooker Cube Steak recipe.

Benefits of Slow Cooking This Cut

• Tenderizes tough cuts of meat
• Infuses flavors throughout the dish
• Results in melt-in-your-mouth texture
• Allows for easy meal preparation

Meat Selection Tips

Choose cube steak that’s fully thawed and a vibrant red color. It should have little fat or discoloration. If you can’t find cube steak, use thinly sliced beef chuck or round steak instead. Always pick fresh, high-quality meat for the best results.

“Cube steak is an economical and versatile cut of beef that becomes deliciously tender and flavorful when slow cooked.”

Essential Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cube Steak

Creating a delicious slow cooker cube steak dish is all about the right ingredients. This meal is easy to make and requires just a few simple items. These ingredients come together perfectly in the slow cooker.

You’ll need cube steak, olive oil for browning, onion, and a packet of gravy mix (beef-flavored). Also, grab a can of cream of mushroom soup and some water. Don’t forget to add salt and black pepper to taste.

For a fresh touch, use parsley as a garnish. You can also swap the cream of mushroom soup for cream of celery soup. Or, make your own gravy for a unique flavor.

To reduce sodium, choose low-sodium or no-sodium options for the soup and gravy mix. With these basic cube steak ingredients and pantry staples, you’re ready to make a tasty slow cooker recipe everyone will love.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Making a tasty slow cooker cube steak is easy and rewarding. Start by browning the cube steaks to keep their flavor locked in.

Browning the Meat

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the cube steaks in batches if needed. Sear them for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step enhances the flavor of the dish.

Creating the Gravy Base

In a bowl, mix two packets of beef gravy mix, two cans of cream of mushroom soup, and 2 cups of water. Whisk until the gravy mix is dissolved.

Slow Cooker Setup

• Layer the browned cube steaks in the bottom of your slow cooker.
• Top the steaks with sliced onions.
• Pour the gravy mixture over the top, ensuring the steaks are fully submerged.

Put your slow cooker on low and let the cube steaks cook for 6-8 hours. They should be tender and the gravy thick.

Follow these steps for a comforting slow cooker cube steak dinner. Letting the flavors mix in the slow cooker makes the dish tender and flavorful. It’s great for any time.

Creating the Perfect Gravy Sauce

To make the delicious gravy for your slow-cooked cube steak, you need a few simple ingredients. Mix beef gravy mix, cream of mushroom soup, and water together. For a richer taste, add a packet of onion soup mix too.

After the cube steak has cooked for hours, it’s time to finish the gravy. If it’s too thin, make a cornstarch slurry. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Stir this into the slow cooker gravy and cook on high for 15-20 minutes. This will make it thick and creamy.

The gravy turns out creamy and savory, perfect with the tender cube steak. Serve it over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice for a comforting meal.

“The slow cooker cube steak gravy is the star of the dish – rich, velvety, and bursting with beefy goodness.”

With a few easy steps, you can make your slow cooker cube steak even better with the perfect gravy. Let the flavors blend and adjust the texture as needed. Try it and enjoy a delicious, homemade meal.

Slow Cooker Cube Steak Cooking Times and Settings

Preparing tender and flavorful cube steak in your slow cooker is all about the right cooking time and temperature. The slow heat of a crock pot is ideal for making this affordable beef cut into a tasty comfort food.

Low vs. High Temperature Settings

For the best results, cook cube steak on the low setting in your slow cooker. This low heat for 6-8 hours breaks down the meat’s connective tissues, making it tender. Stay away from the high-heat setting, as it can make the steak tough and dry.

How to Know When It’s Done

The cube steak is done when it’s fork-tender and falls apart easily. Don’t open the lid too often, as it can lose heat and moisture. Use a digital meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 160°F for well-done.

Remember, cooking cube steak too long can make it too soft. Cook it for no more than 8 hours on the low setting. With the right slow cooker settings and cooking time, you’ll get tender, flavorful cube steak every time.

Tips for Maximum Tenderness and Flavor

To get the most out of your slow cooker cube steak, follow these tips. Make sure the meat is thawed completely before cooking. Browning the cube steak before adding it to the slow cooker adds a nice sear and flavor.

Adding diced veggies like carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms to the crockpot is a good idea. They not only add nutrition but also more flavorful slow cooker recipes. For a richer beef taste, use beef consommé or broth instead of water.

Let the dish rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to mix well, making the cube steak tender and flavorful. It will surely satisfy your comfort food cravings.

“Slow cooking is the secret to transforming even the toughest cuts of meat into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.”

Best Side Dishes and Serving Suggestions

Choosing the right side dishes can make your slow cooker cube steak meal even better. You can pick from classic favorites or tasty veggies to go with it. Each option brings out the best in the tender, flavorful cube steak.

Classic Pairings

Traditional favorites like mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or egg noodles are great with slow cooker cube steak. These sides soak up the rich gravy perfectly.

Vegetable Options

Adding a variety of veggies can make your meal complete. Creamed corn, roasted green beans, or a fresh garden salad are all excellent choices. You can also try dinner rolls, roasted Brussels sprouts, brown sugar carrots, or roasted broccoli for extra flavor.

To serve, place the cube steak over your favorite starch. Then add your chosen veggie side. This makes for a hearty, comforting meal that everyone will love.

There are countless ways to pair your slow cooker cube steak with delicious sides. Feel free to get creative and find the perfect match for your taste and dietary needs.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Enjoying your slow cooker cube steak doesn’t have to end after the meal. Proper storage and reheating can make your leftovers delicious for days. Follow these simple tips to keep your cube steak tasty.

To store leftover cube steak, put it in an airtight container and refrigerate for 3-5 days. For a quick reheat, microwave it for 1-2 minutes. Or, heat it in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 10-15 minutes.

Freezing is great for longer storage. Cool the steak, then put it in a freezer-safe container. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Freezing might change the gravy’s texture a bit. But gentle reheating should keep it smooth. With these tips, you can enjoy your slow cooker cube steak for a long time.

Conclusion

Slow cooker cube steak is a great, affordable meal for busy families. It’s tender, flavorful, and easy to make. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner with little effort.

It’s great over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or with your favorite veggies. This dish will quickly become a family favorite. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make.

The slow cooking makes the steak tender and flavorful. By following this guide, you can make a delicious, budget-friendly meal. Try this easy slow cooker cube steak recipe and enjoy the tasty results.

Slow cooker cube steak is ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. You can try different sides and seasonings to make it your own. Don’t forget to use leftovers for easy meal planning. Enjoy the comforting, delicious meals that cube steak offers.

FAQ

What is cube steak and why is it perfect for slow cooking?

Cube steak comes from the cow’s shoulder or top sirloin. It’s been tenderized and flattened. This makes it tough but great for slow cooking.

Slow cooking breaks down the meat’s connective tissues. This makes it tender and full of flavor.

What are the key ingredients for slow cooker cube steak?

You’ll need olive oil for browning, beef cube steaks, and an onion. Also, use beef gravy mix, cream of mushroom soup, water, salt, and pepper. Fresh parsley is optional for garnish.

How do you prepare and cook slow cooker cube steak?

Start by browning the cube steaks in olive oil. This adds flavor and texture.

Make a gravy by mixing beef gravy packets, cream of mushroom soup, and water. Layer the steaks, onions, and gravy in the slow cooker. Make sure the steaks are covered.

Cook on low for 6-8 hours. This ensures the meat is tender.

How do you make the perfect gravy for slow cooker cube steak?

Mix beef gravy mix, cream of mushroom soup, and water for the gravy. Adding onion soup mix can enhance flavor.

If the gravy is too thin, mix cornstarch with water. Stir it into the crockpot to thicken.

What are the best serving suggestions and side dishes for slow cooker cube steak?

Serve with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or egg noodles. Creamed corn, roasted green beans, or a garden salad are good veggies.

Other great sides include dinner rolls, roasted Brussels sprouts, brown sugar carrots, or roasted broccoli.

How do you store and reheat leftover slow cooker cube steak?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-5 days. Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

For freezing, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.