Easy Crock Pot Cube Steak: Tender & Flavorful
Ever struggled to find a meal the whole family will love? This Easy Crock Pot Cube Steak recipe is your answer. It’s tender, juicy, and smothered in a savory mushroom gravy. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
As a busy parent, getting a hearty dinner ready can be tough. That’s why I’m excited to share this easy recipe with you. It needs just a few ingredients and little prep time. The slow cooker makes even tough meat tender and delicious.
This crock pot cube steak is special because of its flavor and tenderness. The slow cooking makes it melt-in-your-mouth tender. The gravy adds a rich, comforting taste. Serve it with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or veggies for a satisfying meal.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Crock Pot Cube Steak
Cube steak is a versatile cut of beef that’s perfect for slow cooking in a crock pot. It comes from the shoulder or round and is often mechanically tenderized. This makes it look like it’s been cubed.
While it’s not the most tender meat, slow cooking in a crock pot makes it tender and flavorful. The long, gentle cooking process breaks down the tough fibers and connective tissue.
What is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef that’s been mechanically tenderized. This is done using a meat mallet or a tenderizing machine. It creates small indentations or “cubes” in the meat.
This process helps to break down the tough muscle fibers. It makes the steak more tender and easier to chew.
Benefits of Slow Cooking Cube Steak
Slow cooking cube steak in a crock pot is a great way to make it delicious. The long, gentle cooking process tenderizes the steak. It becomes fork-tender and melts in your mouth.
The slow cooking method also lets the flavors of the ingredients meld together. This creates a rich and savory gravy that complements the tender beef perfectly.
Another benefit is that it tenderizes tough cuts of beef. The low and slow cooking breaks down collagen and connective tissue. This makes the meat more tender and easier to chew.
This makes cube steak an excellent option for budget-friendly meals. It’s packed with flavor and texture.
Ingredients Needed for Crock Pot Cube Steak
To make this tasty crock pot cube steak recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. The main ingredient is cube steak, a tender and flavorful beef cut. You’ll also need cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, and au jus gravy mix for a rich gravy. A bit of water and cornstarch will thicken the gravy just right.
This meal is not only tasty but also cost-effective. It’s a budget-friendly option for your slow cooker. It takes 6-8 hours to cook, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cube Steak | 2 pounds |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 2 cans (10.5 oz each) |
| French Onion Soup Mix | 1 packet (1 oz) |
| Au Jus Gravy Mix | 1 packet (1 oz) |
| Water | 1 cup |
| Cornstarch | 2 tablespoons |
| Cold Water | 2 tablespoons |
With these easy ingredients, you can make a delicious and easy weeknight meal. The slow cooker does all the work. You’ll get a tender, flavorful dish that’s budget-friendly and loved by all.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a tasty crock pot cube steak is easy. First, mix two cans of cream of chicken soup, one envelope of French onion soup mix, and a cup of water or beef broth in your slow cooker. Stir until everything is well combined. Next, add the cube steak to the slow cooker, making sure it’s covered in the gravy.
Cooking Crock Pot Cube Steak
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The steak will become tender and full of flavor. For a thicker gravy, mix cornstarch with water, then add it to the slow cooker in the last hour.
This simple how to make crock pot cube steak method makes for a great easy weeknight dinner. It’s perfect for busy families. You’ll spend less time cooking and more time enjoying a tender and flavorful meal.
“The beauty of this crock pot cube steak recipe is that it’s a true ‘set-it-and-forget-it’ meal. Simply toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let the magic happen!”
Thickening the Gravy
To make a rich, velvety gravy, thicken the cooking liquid near the end of cooking. This step can really make the dish better.
Creating a cornstarch slurry is the key. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water in a bowl. Stir until it’s smooth and lump-free. Then, add the slurry to the crock pot in the last hour of cooking.
The cornstarch will thicken the gravy as it simmers. This turns it into a glossy, flavorful coating for the cube steak. You can adjust the thickness by adding more or less cornstarch mixture.
For an easier way to thicken the gravy, use a brown gravy mix. Just sprinkle it over the dish in the last 30 minutes and stir. The mix will quickly thicken the juices, making the gravy easy to make.
With a few simple steps, you can elevate your crock pot cube steak. A rich, velvety gravy will make your family happy.
“The secret to perfect crock pot gravy is all in the technique. Just a few minutes of effort can transform the dish into something truly special.”
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cornstarch | 1 tablespoon |
| Cold Water | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown Gravy Mix (optional) | 1 packet |
Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Cube Steak
This tender and flavorful crock pot cube steak goes well with many side dishes. It’s great for a cozy family dinner or a fulfilling meal. There are lots of options to choose from when serving this dish.
Side Dish Ideas
Classic and crowd-pleasing side dishes that go well with the cube steak and gravy include:
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Fluffy egg noodles
- Buttery white rice
- Roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts
The tender cube steak and rich gravy are a perfect match for these sides. They make a satisfying and balanced meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to add plenty of gravy for extra flavor.
For a heartier meal, try the crock pot cube steak over mashed potatoes or egg noodles. The meat and gravy go great with these comfort foods. Whichever side you pick, you’ll get a tasty and fulfilling family dinner recipe for any day.
Variations and Substitutions
When making your crock pot cube steak, you can try new things. You can change the seasonings, cut down on sodium, or add different veggies. This lets you make the dish your own, based on what you like.
Lower Sodium Options
Want to eat less sodium? You can make some easy changes. Use low-sodium or no-sodium soups and gravy mixes instead of regular ones. For example, try using low-sodium beef broth instead of canned French onion soup.
Also, watch how much salt you add. Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end. This way, you can control how much sodium goes into your dish.
Another idea is to make your own gravy. Start with low-sodium broth and add your favorite spices. This way, you can make a tasty gravy that fits your diet.
- Use low-sodium or no-sodium canned soups and gravy mixes
- Substitute canned French onion soup with low-sodium beef broth or consommé
- Make your own homemade gravy with low-sodium or unsalted broth
- Season to taste at the end of cooking to control sodium levels
With a few simple swaps, you can enjoy your crock pot cube steak without too much sodium.
Tips for Tender Crock Pot Cube Steak
The secret to tender cube steak in the slow cooker is the cooking method. Cooking the beef low and slow breaks down tough fibers. This makes the steak melt in your mouth.
To make sure your cube steak is tender, soak it in the gravy. This keeps it moist and cooks evenly. A digital slow cooker with a “keep warm” setting helps keep the perfect temperature. This way, your steak stays tender until it’s ready to eat.
For more flavor and tenderness, sear the cube steak before slow cooking. This step locks in juices and adds a tasty crust.
| Tenderizing Technique | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Cooking Low and Slow | Breaks down tough muscle fibers and connective tissue |
| Fully Submerging Meat in Gravy | Prevents drying out and ensures even cooking |
| Using a Digital Slow Cooker | Maintains optimal temperature to prevent overcooking |
| Searing Beef Before Slow Cooking | Locks in juices and creates a flavorful crust |
Follow these tips to make tender, delicious cube steak in your crock pot. With the right techniques, even the cheapest beef can become a tasty meal.
“The secret to tender crock pot cube steak is in the slow, gentle cooking process that breaks down the tough fibers and connective tissue.”
Crock Pot Cube Steak Leftovers
Enjoying a delicious crock pot cube steak meal is a satisfying experience. But what happens when you have leftovers? No need to worry – those extra servings can be transformed into quick and easy meals throughout the week. This section has you covered from storing to reheating.
Storing and Reheating
Once you’ve savored your crock pot cube steak and gravy, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat the cube steak and gravy on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the meat. The leftovers make for a stress-free meal, perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch.
For longer-term storage, the crock pot cube steak leftovers can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to reheat the frozen leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
By properly storing and reheating your crock pot cube steak leftovers, you can enjoy the delicious flavors again and again. This saves time and money on meal prepping. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying meal ready to go whenever you need it.
Nutritional Information
This crock pot cube steak recipe is a hearty, protein-rich meal. A single serving has about 417 calories, 42 grams of protein, and 44 grams of fat. It’s a bit high in sodium, but you can use low-sodium versions to reduce it. This slow-cooked crock pot cube steak is a comforting dish that fits well in a balanced diet.
Cubed steak, or crock pot cube steak, has been a favorite for decades. The recipe uses 8 cube steaks, making 6 servings. Each serving has 417 calories, with 42 grams of protein, 21 grams of carbs, and 44 grams of fat. It’s packed with iron, zinc, and vitamins.
The sodium might be a bit high, but you can lower it by choosing low-sodium options. This makes the crock pot cube steak recipe healthier. The slow-cooking makes the steak tender and delicious, perfect for a healthy slow cooker recipes option.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 417 kcal |
| Total Carbohydrates | 21 g |
| Protein | 42 g |
| Total Fat | 44 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Cholesterol | 152 mg |
| Sodium | 712 mg |
| Potassium | 1160 mg |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Vitamin A | 480 IU |
| Vitamin C | 1.7 mg |
| Calcium | 47 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
By choosing healthier options, this crock pot cube steak recipe can be part of a balanced diet. The slow-cooking makes it tender and flavorful, a comforting meal.
Why This Recipe Works
The crock pot cube steak recipe is perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner. It turns tough, cheap cube steak into tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness. The slow cooking mixes the flavors, making a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
This recipe is great because it’s so easy. Just throw the ingredients in the crock pot and forget about it. It’s perfect for busy nights when you don’t have much time. Plus, it’s affordable, making it a smart choice for families.
The slow cooking has many advantages. It tenderizes the meat, making it easy to fork through. The gravy thickens and gets a deep, savory flavor that goes well with the meat.
- Transforms tough, inexpensive cube steak into fork-tender perfection
- Allows for hands-off, easy weeknight preparation in the crock pot
- Features budget-friendly ingredients and simple steps
- Benefits of slow cooking, including tenderizing meat and developing a rich gravy
In short, this crock pot cube steak recipe is a winner. It’s easy, affordable, and delicious, making it a top choice for weeknight dinners.
Budgeting Tips for Crock Pot Cube Steak
Feeding your family on a budget? Crock pot cube steak is a great choice. It’s an affordable beef cut, and slow cooking it in a tasty gravy makes it even better. Look for sales on cube steak and other ingredients to save more.
Buying canned soups, gravy mixes, and pantry staples on sale can also cut costs. With some planning and these tips, you can enjoy tender crock pot cube steak without spending too much.
Budgeting Tips for Crock Pot Cube Steak
- Look for sales or discounts on cube steak and other ingredients
- Stock up on canned soups, gravy mixes, and other pantry staples when they’re on sale
- Adjust the recipe to use less expensive protein options, such as ground beef or turkey
- Stretch the dish further by serving it with inexpensive side dishes like mashed potatoes or rice
- Freeze leftovers for easy, budget-friendly meals in the future
These simple tips can help you enjoy crock pot cube steak without spending a lot. With a bit of creativity and smart shopping, you can make tasty, budget-friendly recipes that please everyone.
| Ingredient | Cost |
|---|---|
| 4 cube steaks | $8.99 |
| 1 package onion soup mix | $1.29 |
| 2 cups beef broth | $1.99 |
| 1 cup mushrooms, sliced | $2.49 |
| Total Cost | $14.76 |
This crock pot cube steak recipe is a tasty, savory, inexpensive protein option that helps save money on meals. With a bit of planning and these budget-friendly tips, you can enjoy this delicious dish without hurting your family’s food budget.
Conclusion
This easy crock pot cube steak recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It turns tough beef into tender, flavorful food that everyone loves. You’ll enjoy a comforting meal with little effort.
Looking for a budget-friendly dinner that everyone will enjoy? Or want a simple recipe to add to your collection? This crock pot cube steak is a hit. It’s great for easy crock pot recipes, family-friendly dinners, and comfort food classics.
This dish is packed with protein, low in carbs, and full of nutrients. It’s a healthy meal option. Plus, you can save leftovers for later, making it perfect for busy families. Try it out and enjoy a delicious, stress-free dinner that everyone will love.