Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe

As the weather gets colder and days shorter, nothing beats the smell of a warm, homemade meal. For me, that smell reminds me of my childhood. Sitting around the table with my family, we’d enjoy my mother’s tender, flavorful cube steak from the crock pot. It was more than just food; it brought us together, filling our hearts with comfort and connection.

Looking for a recipe that brings back those cozy feelings? You’re in the right spot. This cube steak crock pot recipe is a real treasure. It’s simple, affordable, and makes the meat so tender it just melts in your mouth. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home.

Key Takeaways

• Cube steak is a tough cut of meat that becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked in a crock pot
• This recipe combines cube steak with a flavorful gravy made from onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth
• It’s an economical dish that can be prepared for less than $10, making it a budget-friendly option for busy weeknights
• The slow cooking process results in meat that can be easily cut with a fork, creating a comforting and satisfying meal
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the dish is not recommended for freezing

Understanding Cube Steak: What Makes It Special

Cube steak is a special cut of beef. It’s made to be tender and great for quick cooking. It comes from the top or bottom round, which are tough because they’re used a lot.

The meat is processed to break down the tough fibers. This leaves a “cubed” pattern on the meat’s surface.

The Process of Meat Tenderizing

To make cube steak, butchers use a meat tenderizer. It can be a sharp-bladed device or a mallet-like tool. This process makes tiny holes in the meat.

These holes help the fibers break down when cooked. This makes the meat tender, perfect for quick cooking like pan-frying or braising.

Best Cuts for Cube Steak

• Top Round Steak: A lean, economical cut that benefits greatly from the tenderizing process.
• Bottom Round Steak: Another tough, muscular area of the cow that becomes more tender when cubed.
• Chuck Steak: While not as common, cube steak can also be made from the chuck or shoulder region of the animal.

Why It’s Perfect for Slow Cooking

The tenderizing process also makes cube steak great for slow cooking. Long, low-temperature cooking breaks down the fibers even more. This results in a tender texture that’s hard to get with other cuts.

Cube steak becomes fork-tender when cooked slowly. This makes it a budget-friendly and versatile option for busy cooks.

Cube steak is a unique and affordable beef cut. It’s perfect for both quick and slow cooking. Its tender texture and versatility make it a favorite among families and home cooks.

Essential Ingredients for Crock Pot Success

Creating a delicious cube steak dish in the slow cooker is easy. You just need a few simple ingredients. These include tender cube steak, savory onion soup mix, creamy mushroom soup, and rich beef broth. With these items, you can make a tasty dish in your crock pot.

To start, you’ll need 7 pieces of cube steak. This is a budget-friendly option compared to other beef cuts. Add a packet of onion soup mix, a can of cream of mushroom soup, and 2 cups of beef broth. These ingredients blend together to flavor the meat and create a rich gravy.

For more flavor, try adding sliced onions or a bit of onion powder. You can also swap the mushroom soup for cream of chicken or French onion soup. Adding au jus gravy mix can make the gravy even richer.

To thicken the gravy, mix a cornstarch slurry in at the end. With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a tasty cube steak dish. It’s sure to impress your family and guests.

The Perfect Gravy Base Combination

Making the perfect gravy for your tender cube steak is all about mixing the right ingredients. You’ll need a mix of cream of mushroom soup and onion soup mix or French onion soup. This combo gives your gravy a rich, savory taste and a smooth texture that’s just right.

Choosing the Right Soups

Choose high-quality soups for your gravy base. Cream of mushroom soup adds a creamy, earthy flavor. Onion soup mix or French onion soup brings a deep onion taste. For less salt, use low-sodium or no-sodium soups.

Seasoning Secrets

To make your gravy even better, add an au jus or brown gravy mix. These mixes add a savory flavor that goes great with the cube steak. Adjust the seasoning to taste, so it’s just right for you.

Thickening Options

For the right gravy thickness, use a cornstarch slurry. Mix cornstarch with cold water and add it slowly to the gravy. Stir constantly until it’s the perfect consistency.

With these tips, you’re ready to make a gravy that will take your cube steak dish to the next level. Enjoy the rich, flavorful gravy as it makes the cube steak even more tender. It’s a dining experience you won’t forget.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing a delicious cube steak recipe in your slow cooker is easy. Start by placing 4 cube steaks in your crock pot. Season them with ¼ tsp salt and ½ tsp ground black pepper.

Next, mix 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 cup of beef broth, a beef bouillon cube, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder. Pour this mixture over the cube steaks, making sure they are fully submerged.

For extra flavor, add 1 large yellow onion, sliced into ½ inch strings, on top of the cube steaks. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender and the gravy has developed.

About an hour before serving, thicken the gravy. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a small amount of the hot cooking liquid. Slowly pour the slurry back into the slow cooker, stirring continuously, and let the gravy simmer on high for an additional hour or until it reaches the desired consistency.

With just a few simple steps, you’ve created a delicious and comforting cube steak recipe. It’s perfect for any occasion. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, like Boursin Mashed Potatoes, Roasted Brussels Sprouts, or Cornbread, Sausage & Pecan Stuffing, for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Tips for Achieving Maximum Tenderness

Enjoying a tender cube steak is all about getting it just right. Cube steak, made from round or top sirloin, is a budget-friendly option. But with the right cooking, it can be incredibly tender.

Temperature Settings and Timing

Cooking cube steak low and slow is key. Use your crock pot’s lowest setting and let it simmer for 6-8 hours. Cooking it on high can make it tough.

Moisture Management

It’s important to keep the cube steak moist. Use beef broth, gravy, or a mix of flavors to keep it wet. Check the liquid often to avoid drying out the meat.

Testing for Doneness

The steak is done when it’s fork-tender. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F to 175°F. This ensures it’s juicy and tender. An automatic warm setting helps keep it perfect.

“The cubing process helps to increase the tenderness of cube steak by creating small cuts along the muscle fibers, making it a great choice for slow cooking methods like braising or simmering.”

Follow these tips for a tender cube steak. Control temperature, manage moisture, and check for doneness. With patience and the right method, this affordable cut can be a hit.

Creating the Perfect Gravy Consistency

Getting the right gravy consistency is crucial for your cube steak crock pot recipe. A few simple thickening techniques can turn the savory juices into a rich, velvety gravy. This gravy will perfectly complement the tender cube steak.

Using a cornstarch slurry is a great method. Mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water. Then, stir this mixture into your crock pot during the last hour of cooking. The cornstarch will thicken the gravy to your liking. If it’s too thick, add a bit of beef broth to thin it out.

For a lighter option, try using low-sodium cream soups or making your own cream soup base. The creamy texture adds body to the gravy without overpowering the cube steak gravy flavors.

Whichever thickening technique you pick, remember to taste and adjust the seasoning. A dash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of dried herbs can enhance the cube steak gravy flavor.

With a bit of experimentation and attention to detail, you’ll get the perfect gravy consistency. This will make your cube steak crock pot dish even more enjoyable. Enjoy every bite of this comforting and flavorful meal!

Best Side Dish Pairings

Choosing the right side dishes can make your cube steak meal even better. There are many options, from classic favorites to new ideas. Each one can bring out the best in your cube steak.

Traditional Options

Classic choices like mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or egg noodles are always good. Green beans are also a favorite for a veggie side. These dishes offer a comforting match for your cube steak meal.

Modern Alternatives

For healthier options, try cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables with your cube steak. Adding zucchini or spinach to the crock pot adds extra nutrition.

For a quick side, boxed rice pilaf and canned green beans are easy and tasty. Cube steak pairs well with many sides, making it versatile and enjoyable.

“The right side dish can truly elevate a cube steak meal and make it a memorable dining experience.”

Storage and Leftover Ideas

Don’t let leftover cube steak go to waste. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freezing isn’t the best option, as it can change the texture. But, you can still find creative ways to use it up.

Try making an open-faced sandwich with the leftover steak and gravy on bread. Add some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Or, cut the steak into small pieces and mix it with pasta or mac and cheese. It’s a quick, tasty meal everyone will enjoy.

Proper storage and timely eating are key to enjoying leftover cube steak. Follow these tips to relish the flavors of your slow-cooked steak for days to come.

FAQ

What makes cube steak a good choice for a crock pot recipe?

Cube steak is perfect for crock pot recipes. It becomes tender because of tiny holes in the meat. Slow cooking in the crock pot makes it even softer, so it melts in your mouth.

What are the key ingredients for a successful cube steak crock pot recipe?

You’ll need cube steak, onion soup mix, and cream of mushroom soup. Also, beef broth and cornstarch for thickening. You can add sliced onions or onion powder, cream of chicken soup, or French onion soup for extra flavor.

How do you make the perfect gravy for cube steak in the crock pot?

The gravy starts with cream of mushroom soup and onion soup mix or French onion soup. Add au jus or brown gravy mix for seasoning. Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

What is the best way to cook cube steak in the crock pot for maximum tenderness?

Cook cube steak on low for 6-8 hours for the best tenderness. High heat can make it tough. Make sure it’s covered in liquid to stay moist. It’s ready when it’s very tender and falls apart easily.

What are some good side dish options to serve with crock pot cube steak?

Try mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or egg noodles as sides. Green beans are a tasty veggie choice. For a healthier option, serve over cauliflower rice or with roasted veggies.

How can you store and reuse leftover cube steak from the crock pot?

Keep leftover cube steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can turn it into open-faced sandwiches, mix it with pasta or mac and cheese, or serve it over bread.