How to Make Cube Steak in a Crock Pot: A Simple and Delicious Recipe

How to Make Cube Steak in a Crock Pot

Are you tired of tough, chewy steaks that leave your taste buds disappointed? What if I told you there’s a foolproof way to transform budget-friendly cube steak into a mouthwatering meal that practically melts in your mouth?

The slow cooker cube steak recipe is your ticket to an effortless, delicious dinner that will have your family asking for seconds. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can create a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

This easy cube steak crock pot recipe turns an ordinary cut of meat into a tender, flavor-packed dish that will become a staple in your kitchen. No complicated techniques or expensive ingredients required – just simple, satisfying cooking.

Key Takeaways

• Minimal prep time of just 10 minutes
• Flexible cooking options: 3 hours on high or 6 hours on low
• Budget-friendly meal that delivers maximum flavor
• Perfect for busy families and home cooks
• Transforms tough cube steak into a tender, delicious dish

Understanding Cube Steak: What It Is and Why It’s Perfect for Slow Cooking

Cube steak is a budget-friendly and tasty meat option for your next crock pot recipe. It’s a versatile cut of beef with great flavor, perfect for slow cooking.

Origin of Cube Steak

Cube steak comes from the cow’s shoulder, like the top round or top sirloin. It’s a tough cut that becomes tender through a special process. This process makes small holes in the meat, breaking down the muscle fibers.

Why Slow Cooking Works Perfectly

Slow cooking is key to making cube steak tender and delicious. The low heat breaks down the meat’s connective tissues. This makes the steak tender and almost melts in your mouth.

• Breaks down tough muscle fibers
• Allows deep flavor absorption
• Creates fork-tender meat
• Requires minimal preparation

Benefits of Crock Pot Cooking

Crock pot cooking has many benefits for cube steak. It cooks evenly and infuses the meat with lots of flavor.

Cooking Method	Cooking Time	Tenderness Level
Low Setting	6-8 hours	Most Tender
High Setting	4-5 hours	Moderately Tender

“Slow cooking transforms an ordinary cut of meat into an extraordinary meal.” – Home Cooking Expert

Whether you’re busy or love cooking, a cube steak crock pot recipe is a great choice. It’s easy to make and tastes amazing.

Key Ingredients for the Ideal Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe

To make a tasty simple cube steak crock pot recipe, start by gathering the right ingredients. Your pantry and fridge are key to making this delicious meal.

For a classic cube steak crock pot recipe, you’ll need these main ingredients:

• 6 cube steak patties (roughly 1.5 pounds of beef)
• 1 can of cream of mushroom soup or cream of chicken soup
• 1 packet of French onion soup mix or Lipton Onion Soup mix
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 packet of au jus gravy mix
• Sliced onions (optional)

Pro tip: For a lower sodium version, choose low-sodium or no-sodium soup and gravy mixes.

“The secret to a tender cube steak is not just in the cooking method, but in selecting the right ingredients.”

Your choice of ingredients is crucial for your simple cube steak crock pot recipe. The mix of soups and seasonings makes a rich, tasty gravy. This turns simple cube steak into a tender, delicious dish.

Ingredient	Quantity	Nutrition per Serving
Cube Steak	1.5 pounds	39g Protein
Cream of Mushroom Soup	1 can	7g Carbohydrates
Onion Soup Mix	1 packet	2g Sugar

With these ingredients, you’re all set to make a hearty meal that will fill everyone up.

Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Steps

To make a tasty easy cube steak crock pot recipe, you need the right tools and techniques. Getting everything ready before cooking makes it easy to create a delicious meal.

Required Cooking Tools

Here are the essential kitchen tools for a successful cube steak crock pot recipe:

• 6-quart slow cooker
• Large skillet for browning
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Preparing Your Crock Pot

Before starting your easy cube steak crock pot recipe, make sure your slow cooker is ready. Check these important details:

• Ensure the crock pot is clean and dry
• Check that the ceramic insert fits properly
• Verify the power cord is intact
• Have cooking spray or liner ready for easier cleanup

Initial Meat Preparation Tips

Proper meat preparation is key for a tender and flavorful cube steak crock pot recipe. Follow these steps:

1. Thaw cube steaks completely in the refrigerator
2. Pat steaks dry with paper towels
3. Season with salt and pepper
4. Optional: Brown steaks in a skillet for enhanced flavor

Pro Tip: Browning the cube steaks before slow cooking can significantly improve the depth of flavor and texture of your dish.

Preparation Step	Time Required
Thawing Steaks	24 hours in refrigerator
Meat Preparation	10 minutes
Browning (Optional)	5-7 minutes

With these preparation steps, you’re ready to create a delicious cube steak crock pot recipe. It will impress your family and friends.

Creating the Perfect Gravy Base

Making a tasty cube steak with gravy crock pot recipe begins with a great flavor base. The secret to a delicious gravy is choosing the right ingredients. These ingredients turn your cube steak into a culinary masterpiece.

Your gravy base is the heart of the recipe. Start by gathering these essential ingredients:

• 10.5-ounce can of cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1/2 package of dry onion soup mix (optional)
• One medium sliced onion

When you mix these ingredients in your crock pot, magic happens. Pro tip: Try using different condensed soups like cream of chicken or cream of celery for different flavors.

“The key to a perfect gravy is layering flavors that complement the tender cube steak.” – Home Cooking Expert

For a thicker gravy, prepare a cornstarch slurry. Add it towards the end of cooking. 1This trick makes your sauce thick and velvety, sticking well to the meat.

Nutrition-conscious cooks can use Campbells Healthy Request cream of soup. They can also add veggies like zucchini to make their dish healthier.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Turning cube steak into a tender, flavorful dish needs careful prep and cooking skills. Your slow cooker cube steak recipe will be a hit with these easy steps.

Browning the Meat

Start by browning your cube steaks before they go into the crock pot. Heat a skillet with olive oil over medium-high. Sear each steak for 2-3 minutes per side.. This creates a rich, golden crust that keeps the flavors in.

• Pat steaks dry with paper towels before browning
• Season with salt and pepper
• Brown in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan

Layering Ingredients

Layering ingredients is key for a great cube steak crock pot recipe. Start with sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker.

1. Place browned cube steaks on top of onions
2. Pour cream of mushroom soup mixture
3. Add beef broth evenly across the meat

Setting Cooking Time and Temperature

Cooking time is important for tender cube steak. Your slow cooker cube steak recipe works best with low and slow cooking.

“Patience transforms tough meat into a tender delicacy.”

Pro tip: Cooking on high heat can make the steak tough. Slow cooking on low temperature gives the best results for your cube steak crock pot recipe.

Tips for Achieving Tender and Flavorful Results

Creating a tender cube steak crock pot recipe needs some smart cooking tricks. The slow cooking turns this affordable meat into a delicious dish that will wow your family.

To make sure your flavorful cube steak crock pot recipe is perfect, follow these key tips:

• Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours to get the meat tender
• Keep the crock pot lid closed to keep the temperature steady
• Use a digital slow cooker with an automatic warm setting for better control
• Make sure the meat is fully covered in gravy for even cooking and flavor

Pro tip: Sear the cube steak for one minute per side before putting it in the crock pot. This step adds flavor and gives a tasty golden-brown crust.

“The secret to a perfect tender cube steak is patience and low, slow cooking.”

To boost your recipe’s taste, add these extra ingredients:

1. Add Worcestershire sauce for a deeper flavor
2. Sprinkle smoked paprika for a richer taste
3. Include fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary
4. Mix in chopped mushrooms or carrots for extra nutrition

When making your tender cube steak crock pot recipe, remember that cooking time and temperature are key. A 6-quart crock pot is best, giving enough room for even cooking.

How to Thicken the Gravy

Getting the gravy just right is key for a tasty cube steak with gravy crock pot recipe. The right thickening method can make your dish go from good to great.

Cornstarch Slurry: The Go-To Thickening Method

A cornstarch slurry is the best way to get a smooth, rich gravy. Here’s how to make it:

• Combine 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water.
• Stir until completely smooth
• Pour the mixture into your crock pot
• Set the temperature to high
• Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally

Alternative Gravy Thickening Techniques

When making your cube steak with gravy crock pot recipe, you have other ways to get the perfect gravy:

1. Flour Mixture: Whisk equal parts flour and cold water
2. Reduce liquid by cooking with the lid off
3. Use instant potato flakes as a thickener

“The secret to great gravy is patience and the right thickening technique.”

For the best results, mix thickening agents with cold liquid to avoid lumps. Your goal is a smooth, rich gravy that goes well with the tender cube steak.

Thickening Method	Pros	Cons
Cornstarch Slurry	Quick, clear results	Can break down if overcooked
Flour Mixture	Traditional method	Takes longer to cook out raw flour taste
Reduction	Concentrates flavor	Requires more cooking time

Remember, your cube steak with gravy crock pot recipe needs a perfectly thickened sauce. This will make your meal unforgettable.

Best Side Dishes to Serve

Make your delicious cube steak crock pot recipe even better with the right side dishes. These dishes should match the rich, tender meat. The perfect sides can turn a good meal into an amazing one.

Think about these tasty and healthy side dish options. They balance the hearty protein of the cube steak:

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes
• Buttered Egg Noodles
• Herbed Rice Pilaf
• Roasted Green Vegetables
• Garden Salad

Your cube steak crock pot recipe feeds 6 people and is full of nutrients. Each serving has:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	517 kcal
Protein	42g
Carbohydrates	23g
Fat	28g

Pro tip: Pick sides that soak up the tasty gravy from your cube steak. This way, every bite is full of flavor.

“The ideal side dish enhances your main course without overshadowing it.” – Culinary Wisdom

For quick and affordable sides, try frozen French green beans or instant rice pilaf. They’re easy to make. For a lighter choice, serve your cube steak over cauliflower rice. This cuts down on carbs.

Storage and Reheating Guidelines

Keeping your cube steak tasty after cooking is key. Use the right storage methods to enjoy your easy cube steak crock pot recipe for days.

Refrigerator Storage Tips

• Store leftover cube steak in an airtight container
• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking
• Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Store gravy separately to maintain texture

Freezing Guidelines

Freezing your cube steak is a great way to keep it fresh longer. Pro tip: Freeze in portion-sized containers for easy reheating.

Storage Method	Maximum Duration	Recommended Thawing
Refrigerator Storage	3-4 days	No additional thawing needed
Freezer Storage	Up to 3 months	Overnight in refrigerator

Reheating Techniques

Reheating your easy cube steak crock pot recipe gently keeps it tender and flavorful.

1. Microwave Method:
   • Heat at 50% power
   • Warm for 1-2 minutes
   • Stir halfway through
2. Oven Method:
   • Preheat to 350°F
   • Cover with aluminum foil
   • Reheat for 10-15 minutes

“1The key to perfect reheated cube steak is low and slow heating to preserve moisture and tenderness.” – Home Cooking Expert

Follow these tips for storing and reheating your easy cube steak crock pot recipe. This way, you can enjoy it multiple times, keeping it delicious and safe.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Exploring new ways to make your cube steak crock pot recipe can be exciting. Your slow cooker is perfect for trying out different ingredients and flavors.

To make the best cube steak crock pot recipe, know how different ingredients can change the taste and texture.

Alternative Soups and Seasonings

Try these tasty alternatives to traditional cream of mushroom soup:

• Cream of celery soup for a lighter taste
• Beef consommé for richer meat flavors
• Homemade cream of chicken soup for a homemade touch

Seasoning Enhancements

Enhance your cube steak crock pot recipe with these seasonings:

• Smoked paprika for a deeper flavor
• Fresh thyme and rosemary
• Garlic powder for an extra kick

Adding Vegetables

Add nutritious vegetables to make your dish more filling:

• Sliced carrots
• Diced potatoes
• Quartered onions
• Zucchini chunks

Cheese Variations

For a rich twist, top your cube steak with:

• Shredded mozzarella
• Grated parmesan
• Sharp cheddar cheese

“Creativity in the kitchen transforms simple ingredients into memorable meals.”

Remember, your cube steak crock pot recipe can work with different proteins like chuck roast or pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time for tender and flavorful results.

Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid

Making a tasty slow cooker cube steak recipe needs focus. Many home cooks make simple mistakes that ruin their dish. Knowing these mistakes helps you make a tender and tasty meal every time.

Here are the most critical mistakes to avoid when making your cube steak crock pot recipe:

• Cooking at High Temperature: High heat can toughen the meat, making your cube steak tough and chewy.
• Skipping the Browning Step: Browning adds significant depth of flavor to your slow cooker cube steak recipe.
• Using Frozen Meat: Always thaw your cube steak completely before slow cooking for even results.
• Overfilling the Crock Pot: This leads to uneven cooking and potential food safety issues.

“The secret to a perfect slow cooker meal is patience and precision.” – Culinary Expert

Statistical insights reveal some interesting cooking challenges:

Mistake Type	Percentage
Improper Temperature Control	26%
Excessive Salt Addition	17%
Not Greasing Slow Cooker	12%
Herb and Seasoning Mistakes	8%

Professional tips for your cube steak crock pot recipe include:

1. Keep the lid closed to maintain consistent cooking temperature
2. Add fresh vegetables towards the end of cooking to prevent mushiness
3. Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll create a mouthwatering slow cooker cube steak recipe. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Conclusion

Learning to make a tasty cube steak crock pot recipe is easier than you think. This affordable dish turns cheap meat into a tender, flavorful meal that everyone will love. By knowing the right cooking and prep methods, you can make a delicious meal with little effort.

The easy cube steak crock pot recipe is great for home cooks. With a few ingredients and slow cooking, you can make tough meat tender. Choosing good-quality cube steak and using the right seasonings will make your dish stand out.

Now you can make a comforting meal that fills you up and tastes great. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep. It turns simple ingredients into a memorable meal.

Try slow cooking, experiment with seasonings, and enjoy making a hearty meal. Your journey with cube steak is just starting, and there are endless delicious possibilities.

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FAQ

How long does it take to cook cube steak in a crock pot?

Cook cube steak on low heat for 6-8 hours for the best results. High heat can make the meat tough. So, slow cooking is key for a tender texture.

Can I use frozen cube steak in the crock pot?

No, always thaw cube steak before cooking. Frozen meat cooks unevenly and can be unsafe. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before cooking.

What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?

You can use cream of chicken, celery, or beef consommé instead. For a homemade option, make your own cream soup or use low-sodium broth.

How can I make the gravy thicker?

Mix 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the crock pot and cook on high for 30 minutes. You can also use flour or reduce liquid by cooking with the lid off.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Add carrots, potatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Don’t add frozen veggies at the start. Add fresh or thawed ones later.

How long can I store leftover cube steak?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven covered with foil.

Do I have to brown the meat before putting it in the crock pot?

Browning the meat in a skillet before crock pot cooking is recommended. It adds flavor and improves texture. But, you can skip it if you’re short on time.

Can I use this recipe with other types of meat?

Yes, you can use chuck roast or pork chops. Adjust cooking times as needed. The gravy and slow-cooking method work with many meats, making it versatile.