As the sun sets, the smell of tender cube steak fills the air. It invites you to the dinner table. After a long day, a warm, comforting meal is just what you need. This Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy recipe is perfect for a quick, easy dinner.
Cube steak is a budget-friendly beef cut often overlooked. But, when slow-cooked in a crock pot, it becomes tender and flavorful. We’ll show you how to make it, from understanding cube steak to serving it with tasty sides. Get ready to enjoy the comforting taste of slow-cooked cube steak at home.
Table of Contents
Understanding Cube Steak: What It Is and Why It’s Perfect for Slow Cooking
Cube steak is a versatile and affordable beef cut great for slow cooking. It’s made from the top round or top sirloin, the cow’s shoulder. The unique texture comes from a tenderizing process that softens the meat.
What Part of the Cow Cube Steak Comes From
Cube steak comes from the cow’s shoulder, the top round or top sirloin. This part is tougher, making it perfect for tenderizing.
The Tenderizing Process
The tenderizing process for cube steak involves pounding or using a machine with small blades. This breaks down the meat’s fibers and tissues. It makes the steak tender and easy to chew.
This preparation is ideal for slow cooking. Methods like braising or crock pot cooking tenderize the meat further.
Benefits of Using Cube Steak
Cube steak is a budget-friendly beef option. It’s delicious and affordable, perfect for any meal. The tenderizing process means it cooks quickly and easily, great for busy nights.
Its unique texture also holds up well to slow cooking. This results in a tender and flavorful dish. With its affordable price, tender texture, and great results in slow cooker recipes, cube steak cuts are a kitchen hero for home cooks.
Essential Ingredients for Crock Pot Cube Steak
Preparing delicious cube steak in your slow cooker requires the right ingredients. The secret to a tasty Crock Pot cube steak is in the essential components. Let’s explore the must-have ingredients for this savory dish.
First, you’ll need cube steaks – the main attraction. Cube steak is tenderized beef, ideal for slow cooking. You’ll need about 1.5 lbs for 6 servings.
For a rich gravy, use cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup. These soups add creaminess and flavor. An onion soup and dip mix also enhances the steak’s taste.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cube Steaks | 1.5 lbs |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 10.5 oz can |
| Cream of Mushroom Soup | 10.5 oz can |
| Onion Soup and Dip Mix | 1 oz packet |
| Beef Broth | 8 oz |
| Cornstarch | 3 tbsp |
| Water | 1/2 cup |
Consider adding a sliced onion for extra flavor. Also, use beef broth to thin the gravy. A mix of cornstarch and water thickens the sauce.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Crock Pot cube steak. It’s sure to impress your taste buds.
Preparing Your Crock Pot and Ingredients
Before cooking your cube steak in the crock pot, make sure your slow cooker is clean and ready. Start by washing it with warm, soapy water. Rinse it well and dry it completely to remove any residue. Then, focus on preparing the ingredients.
Cleaning and Setting Up Your Slow Cooker
Make sure your crock pot is clean and dry before cooking. This prevents unwanted flavors or textures from affecting your dish. After washing, dry the interior with a clean towel.
Ingredient Preparation Steps
- Dice 1 medium yellow onion.
- Slice 8 ounces of fresh mushrooms, if using.
- Measure out 1 1/2 cups of beef bone broth or beef stock.
- Measure 1 tablespoon of tomato paste.
- Measure 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.
- Measure 2 teaspoons of your homemade herb and garlic seasoning blend.
- Measure 1/2 teaspoon of paprika.
- Thaw your 6 cube steak patties if they were frozen.
Having all your ingredients prepped makes crock pot preparation easy. Once everything is measured and chopped, start layering the components in your slow cooker.
Creating the Perfect Gravy Base
When cooking cube steak in your crock pot, the key to a great crock pot gravy is the base. This base makes the meat tender and brings the dish together. To make the best gravy base for your cube steak sauce, follow these steps:
- Start by mixing cream of mushroom soup, French onion soup, and au jus mix. This mix gives a strong, savory flavor to your gravy.
- Add beef broth and a bit of tomato paste for more flavor. The broth makes the gravy richer, and the tomato paste adds sweetness and color.
- Whisk the ingredients well to mix the flavors evenly. This is important for a smooth gravy that coats the steak well.
By following these steps, you’ll make a crock pot gravy that’s perfect with your tender cube steak. This dish will taste amazing and impress everyone.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| French Onion Soup Mix | 1 packet |
| Au Jus Gravy Mix | 1 packet |
| Beef Broth | 1 cup |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Water | 1 cup |
“The key to a perfect crock pot gravy is in the balance of flavors. The right mix of cream, onion, and au jus makes a gravy that really brings out the cube steak sauce.”
Step-by-Step Guide to Cube Steak in Crock Pot
Cooking cube steak in your slow cooker is easy. Just follow a simple guide to make a tasty slow cooker cube steak recipe. Your family will love it. Here’s how to make the perfect crock pot cube steak instructions.
Layering the Ingredients
Begin by putting the cube steaks at the bottom of your crock pot. Add sliced onions and mushrooms on top of them. Then, pour the gravy mixture over everything, making sure the meat is fully covered.
Setting the Cooking Time and Temperature
For tender meat, cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, cook on high for 3-4 hours. Keep the temperature steady for the best flavor.
By following these steps, you’ll get a delicious slow cooker cube steak recipe. It’s great for family dinners or cozy weekends. Serve it with your favorite sides for a comforting meal.
Best Cooking Times and Temperature Settings
Cooking cube steak in a crock pot needs the right timing and temperature. A low and slow method is best for tender meat. Cook it on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours for the best results.
While high heat can speed up cooking, low and slow is better for texture. Cooking times can vary by slow cooker model. But always aim for tender meat that’s full of flavor.
“The secret to perfectly cooked cube steak in a crock pot is patience. Let the slow cooker work its magic, and you’ll be rewarded with a dish that practically melts in your mouth.”
Slow cooker timing and crock pot temperature settings are key. They turn affordable beef into a delicious meal. Follow these tips to master crock pot cube steak.
Adjusting Cooking Times
The recommended cooking time is 6 to 8 hours on low. But, you might need to adjust based on your slow cooker and steak size. Here are some tips:
- Smaller cube steak cuts may be ready in as little as 4 to 6 hours on low.
- Thicker or larger cube steak pieces may require 8 to 10 hours on low for optimal tenderness.
- If cooking on high, check the cube steak after 4 hours and continue cooking until it reaches your desired doneness, typically around 5 hours.
The goal is tender, juicy steak and rich gravy. Try different crock pot temperature settings and cooking times. Find what works best for you and your slow cooker.
How to Make the Gravy Thicker
Creating a rich, flavorful gravy is key to a perfect crock pot cube steak dish. If your gravy is too thin, don’t worry. There are easy ways to thicken it up.
Using Cornstarch Slurry
Making a cornstarch slurry is a common way to thicken gravy. Mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water until it’s smooth. Then, stir this into your crock pot for the last 30 minutes. The cornstarch will make your gravy thick and delicious.
Alternative Thickening Methods
- All-Purpose Flour: You can also use 2-3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour mixed with cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the crock pot towards the end of cooking.
- Reduction: To naturally thicken the gravy, remove the lid from your crock pot for 30-60 minutes before it’s done. This lets some liquid evaporate, making the gravy thicker and more concentrated.
When thickening crock pot gravy, start with a small amount of thickener. Add more as needed until it’s just right. With these tips, you’ll have a perfectly thickened thickening crock pot gravy in no time!
Delicious Side Dish Pairings
Choosing the right side dishes can make your crock pot cube steak meal even better. You can pick from classic comfort foods or fresh, vibrant options. These can really bring out the flavor of the tender cube steak.
One great choice is to serve the cube steak over mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice. The savory gravy will mix well with these sides, making each bite comforting. For something heartier, try egg noodles or buttered egg noodles to soak up all the gravy.
To balance the richness of the steak, add fresh, roasted, or steamed veggies. Tender green beans, carrots, broccoli, or a simple green salad can add a crisp contrast. You can also try roasted root veggies like sweet potatoes, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts for a sweet, earthy side.
When picking side dishes, aim to match the flavors of the cube steak and its gravy. The right choices can turn your cube steak side dishes and crock pot meal pairings into a satisfying dinner.
“The side dishes really make the meal come together. They provide the perfect contrast and balance to the richness of the cube steak.”
Storage and Reheating Tips
Enjoying a delicious slow-cooked cube steak dish is just the start. Proper storage and reheating methods help you enjoy every bite, even with leftover cube steak. Follow these simple tips to keep your reheating slow cooker meals flavorful and tender.
Storing Leftover Cube Steak
Keep your leftover cube steak and gravy fresh by storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. Use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating Cube Steak
Ready to enjoy your leftovers? There are a few ways to reheat them well. For the microwave, heat the cube steak and gravy on low power, stirring often, until warm. On the stovetop, reheat them gently over low heat, adding beef broth if it’s too dry.
“Reheating slow cooker meals, like leftover cube steak, is all about preserving moisture and flavor. Take it slow and gentle for best results.”
By following these tips, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of your slow-cooked cube steak even after the first meal. With a bit of planning, you can relish the taste of this comfort food classic, even with leftovers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Cube Steak
When cooking cube steak in a slow cooker, watch out for common mistakes. These can affect how your dish turns out. By knowing and avoiding these errors, your cube steak will be tender and full of flavor.
Temperature Control Errors
Keeping the right temperature is key when slow cooking cube steak. If you forget to adjust the heat or leave it too high, the meat can become tough and dry. Make sure to check the steak’s internal temperature and adjust the cooking time and heat as needed. This will help you get the meat just right.
Seasoning Mistakes
Another mistake is over-seasoning the cube steak. Many recipes use pre-made mixes that are already salty. Don’t add too much salt at the start, as it can make the dish too salty. Instead, taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end. This way, you can get the flavors just right.