When it comes to weeknight dinners that check all the boxes—delicious, budget-friendly, and low effort—Crock Pot Cube Steak is a top contender. If you’ve never tried cooking cube steak this way, buckle up, because we’re diving headfirst into a recipe that will warm your heart and simplify your life. Plus, we’ll talk about why crock pot cooking is a total game-changer and answer some common questions to make you a cube steak pro.
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What Is Crock Pot Cube Steak, Anyway?
Cube steak is a cut of beef, usually from the top or bottom round, that’s tenderized mechanically. Those little indentations you see? That’s the “cube” pattern from the tenderizing process. It’s not a naturally tender cut, but that’s where the crock pot shines—it turns cube steak into melt-in-your-mouth goodness with minimal effort.
Why Crock Pots Are Your Kitchen MVP
If you don’t already own a crock pot, consider this your sign to grab one. Crock pots are a lifesaver for anyone juggling a busy schedule or just wanting to simplify their time in the kitchen. Here are some reasons why they’re awesome:
- Set It and Forget It: You toss your ingredients in, set the timer, and walk away. No babysitting required!
- Tender Meat Every Time: The low-and-slow cooking method breaks down tough cuts of meat, making them juicy and flavorful.
- Energy-Efficient: Crock pots use less electricity than ovens, which is a win for your utility bill.
- Perfect for Batch Cooking: Make big meals, freeze portions, and you’ve got dinner sorted for weeks.
- Fewer Dishes: Everything cooks in one pot. Who doesn’t love less cleanup?
Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe
Let’s get to the good stuff! This recipe is super simple, and the result is a hearty, comforting meal your family will love.
Ingredients
- 4 cube steaks
- 1 packet of onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep Your Ingredients: Start by patting your cube steaks dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick. Generously season both sides with salt and pepper, but remember not to overdo it—the soups will bring plenty of seasoning to the party. If you want an extra kick, sprinkle on some garlic powder or paprika for added flavor.
- Layer It Up: In your crock pot, spread half of the onion slices and minced garlic across the bottom. This creates a flavor-packed base for your steaks. Gently lay the cube steaks in a single layer on top, ensuring they’re not stacked too tightly so they cook evenly.
- Mix the Magic: Grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. Make sure to mix until smooth so there are no lumps. For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture before pouring it over the steaks.
- Add the Rest: Once your sauce is in, top the steaks with the remaining onion slices. These will soften and sweeten as they cook, adding another layer of flavor to the dish.
- Set and Forget: Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Keep in mind that the low-and-slow method is best for achieving fork-tender meat that practically falls apart.
- Serve It Up: When it’s time to serve, give the sauce a quick stir to make sure it’s well combined. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve the cube steaks over a bed of mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or fluffy rice. Don’t forget to drizzle that delicious gravy over everything for maximum comfort food vibes!
Tips for Success
- Don’t Skip the Searing: If you have a few extra minutes, sear your cube steaks in a hot skillet before adding them to the crock pot. This simple step locks in flavor by caramelizing the surface of the meat, giving it a richer taste and a slightly crispy texture that holds up beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Mushrooms, carrots, celery, or even a splash of red wine can add depth to the dish. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the flavor, while a dash of Worcestershire sauce adds a savory kick. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your favorite ingredients.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the gravy feels too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. For a richer, creamier gravy, you can also whisk in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream right before serving.
- Pairing your Crock Pot Cube Steak with the right side dishes can elevate your meal to the next level. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out this guide on the Best Side Dishes for Cube Steak for ideas that perfectly complement your dish.”
Benefits of Cooking in a Crock Pot
We’ve already touched on a few reasons why crock pots rock, but let’s go a little deeper:
- Time-Saving: The prep work is minimal, and you don’t have to watch over the food as it cooks. Whether you’re working, running errands, or simply relaxing, your meal takes care of itself.
- Better Flavor: The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Spices, herbs, and ingredients have time to fully infuse, resulting in dishes that taste like they’ve been prepared by a professional chef.
- Healthy Cooking: Crock pots rely on moisture rather than added fats, making it easier to prepare wholesome meals. You can skip the extra butter or oil and still get rich, flavorful results.
- Convenience: Start your dinner in the morning, and it’s ready to go by the time you get home. Plus, crock pots are great for reheating leftovers, keeping food warm for parties, and even serving straight from the pot.
- Versatility: From hearty soups and comforting stews to casseroles, dips, and even decadent desserts, a crock pot can do it all. You can also try recipes from different cuisines, giving you endless meal options without much hassle.
- Budget-Friendly: Since crock pots are great at tenderizing tough cuts of meat, you can save money by buying more economical ingredients without sacrificing taste or quality.
Love crispy, golden perfection without the extra oil? My Ninja Crispi recipe is a total game-changer for air fryer fans! Whether it’s crispy chicken wings or crunchy veggies, you’ll find easy-to-follow steps for that perfect crunch. Explore the Ninja Crispi Recipes to discover even more ideas to add to your weekly rotation!
FAQs About Cube Steak in a Crock Pot
Can I cook cube steak without thawing it first?
Yes, you can, but it’s not ideal. Frozen meat releases extra liquid, which might water down your gravy and dilute the overall flavor. Thawing not only ensures even cooking but also helps the steak absorb the seasonings better, resulting in a richer taste.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If mushrooms aren’t your thing, no worries! You can easily replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or even cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, a homemade white sauce made from butter, flour, milk, and a touch of seasoning can work just as well for a fresher option.
How do I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is simple. Once cooled, place the cube steak and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating, the microwave is the quickest method, but warming it gently on the stove over low heat will preserve the texture and flavor of the meat.
Can I use other cuts of meat?
Absolutely! While cube steak is the classic choice for this dish, you can switch things up with other economical cuts like chuck steak or round steak. Even pork chops make a tasty alternative, adapting well to the slow-cooking process.
Is it okay to cook on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook on high if you’re pressed for time, and the dish will still turn out tasty. However, cooking on low for a longer period allows the flavors to fully develop and gives the meat a wonderfully tender, fall-apart texture that’s hard to beat. If you can, opt for the low setting to maximize flavor and tenderness.
What to Serve with Cube Steak
Cube steak pairs beautifully with:
- Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food combo that soaks up every bit of that savory gravy.
- Egg Noodles: A hearty base that turns this dish into a filling and satisfying meal.
- Roasted Veggies: Add some color and crunch to your plate with roasted carrots, green beans, or even Brussels sprouts.
- Buttered Rolls: Perfect for mopping up every last drop of that rich, delicious gravy. Bonus points if the rolls are warm and fresh out of the oven!
- Steamed Rice: For a simpler option, fluffy white rice works wonders as a base for the flavorful gravy.
Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
There’s something so comforting about a warm, home-cooked meal, and this cube steak in a crock pot delivers every time. The rich, savory gravy practically begs to be poured over fluffy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles. It’s affordable, easy to make, and packed with flavor that’s sure to make the whole family happy.
And let’s not forget how this meal makes your house smell amazing all day long. There’s nothing like walking in after a busy day and being greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of dinner ready to serve. Plus, it’s one of those meals that feels like a hug in food form—exactly what you need after a long day.
So grab your crock pot, toss in those ingredients, and let it work its magic. Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated to be amazing, but it can absolutely be delicious, comforting, and stress-free!