Cooking cube steak in crock pot turns a tough cut of beef into a juicy, comforting meal. The slow heat tenderizes each bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you get a rich, satisfying dinner. Whether you’re busy on a workday or relaxing on the weekend, this easy recipe fits into your schedule. It gives you more time for what matters most.
Table of Contents
Crock Pot Cubed Steak
The concept of cubed steak might sound old-fashioned, but it’s truly timeless. Cooking cubed steak in a crock pot locks in moisture, keeping it tender and juicy. Unlike stovetop cooking, a crock pot lets you set the temperature and go about your day without worry.
Crock pot Cube Steak and Gravy Recipe
For those who love all things smothered in gravy, cube steak in crock pot is a must-try. The slow cooker not only tenderizes the steak but also thickens and enriches the gravy over time. You’ll notice the color deepen, and the flavors meld into a cohesive, comforting sauce.
Steps for a Gravy-Focused Dish
- Optional Browning: Some prefer a quick sear of the meat for added color and flavor.
- Place onions under and around the steaks in the slow cooker. Add mushrooms if desired.
- Sauce Mixture: Combine soup, broth, and packet mix thoroughly.
- Set & Forget: Let the Crock Pot do its magic on LOW.
- Finish & Serve: Thicken if necessary, then enjoy the luscious, gravy-coated steaks.
Crock Pot Cube Steak
A major benefit of cube steak in crock pot cooking is that it’s forgiving. Even if you leave it for an hour longer than planned, it usually remains moist, unlike more delicate cuts of meat. This reliability is perfect for hectic schedules or when you want a stress-free meal.
What is cube steak?
Cube steak typically comes from tougher cuts of beef like top round or sirloin. A mechanical tenderizer, or “cubing machine,” creates indentations across the surface. This process helps break down some of the tougher fibers. Cooking cube steak in a crock pot breaks down the fibers. This makes the tough steak tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Will steak get tender in crock pot?
Absolutely! One of the main benefits of a crock pot is its ability to break down tough connective tissue over time. Simmering cube steak on LOW for 6–8 hours softens the muscle fibers, making the steak fork-tender. However, Cooking on HIGH can make the steak less tender. The quick heat causes the protein to tighten before it softens.
Ingredients:
Below is a handy table for planning your shopping list:
Ingredient | Purpose | Possible Substitutes |
---|---|---|
Cube Steak (1–1.5 lbs) | Main protein | Thin round steak or minute steak |
Cream Soup (Mushroom/Chicken) | Base for gravy | Cream of celery or homemade white sauce |
Beef Broth/French Onion Soup | Adds savory depth | Vegetable broth or chicken broth |
Gravy/Au Jus Mix Packet | Intensifies flavor, thickens gravy | Onion soup mix (check salt content) |
Onions (optional) | Adds subtle sweetness & aroma | Shallots or leeks |
Salt & Pepper | Basic seasoning | Garlic powder, paprika, thyme |
Cornstarch Slurry | Optional thickener for gravy | Flour slurry or arrowroot powder |
Using this table as a reference can help keep you organized, especially when you’re new to cooking cube steak in crock pot.
How to make Crock pot Cube Steak:
- Season the Steak:
- Pat the cube steak dry. Then, sprinkle it with salt, pepper, and any spices you prefer, such as paprika or onion powder.
- Layer the Pot:
- Add sliced onions or mushrooms to the bottom if you want extra flavor.
- Lay your cube steak on top.
- Mix the Gravy Base:
- In a bowl, whisk together cream soup, broth, and the gravy mix packet.
- Pour over the steaks, making sure they’re submerged or well-coated.
- Cook on LOW:
- Set your crock pot to LOW and allow it to work its magic for 6–8 hours.
- If the gravy looks too thick at any point, add a splash of broth or water.
- Optional Thickening:
- Remove the steaks temporarily if you want to whisk in a cornstarch slurry.
- Switch to HIGH and let it bubble until your gravy reaches the desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Return the steaks to the slow cooker if you removed them.
- Plate the steaks with sides like mashed potatoes or rice and drizzle gravy on top.
What to serve with slow cooker cube steak?
One of the joys of cube steak in crock pot is how versatile it is with side dishes. You can keep it classic or get as creative as you like:
- Mashed Potatoes: The silky gravy complements creamy potatoes perfectly.
- Rice or Egg Noodles: Ideal for soaking up extra sauce.
- Steamed Veggies: Lightens the meal, providing a nutritious contrast.
- Crusty Bread or Biscuits: Great for mopping up every drop of gravy.
Slow-cooked cube steak with onion gravy delivers incredible flavor!
Onions are a secret weapon in slow cooker recipes. Their natural sweetness grows during cooking, adding a gentle aroma to the gravy. If you love onions, add extra slices on top of the cube steak. You can also sprinkle in onion powder for more flavor.
More ideas to try with slow cooker cube steak:
- Add a Kick: Stir in a spoonful of horseradish or Dijon mustard for subtle heat.
- Mushroom Variation: Mix fresh mushrooms into the crock pot at the start. They’ll cook down and add an earthy note.
- Tomato-Based Twist: Use tomato sauce or diced tomatoes instead of cream soup. This creates a tangy version of cube steak in the crock pot.
- Herb Infusion: Add rosemary, thyme, or oregano to make your gravy more flavorful.
You will love cube steak crock pot recipe!
Yes, it’s that good! Thanks to the extended cooking process, any dryness or toughness is practically banished. It requires minimal prep and cleanup. This makes it perfect for weekday dinners or last-minute gatherings. It’s also affordable, especially when cooking for a larger group or planning meals for the week.
Print this Easy Cube Steak crock pot recipe:
Many readers enjoy having a physical copy of recipes. Feel free to print this page or jot down the key steps on an index card. Keep a printed version nearby. It lets you easily recreate cube steak in the crock pot without searching online.
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
One of the highlights of this dish is, undoubtedly, the gravy. By cooking the steak directly in this rich sauce, the meat absorbs all the savory goodness. There’s a reason many people say they could practically drink the gravy on its own!
Tips for a Perfect Gravy:
- Season incrementally, especially if you’re using salt-heavy soup or gravy mixes.
- Use a fat separator or skim off excess grease if you prefer a lighter sauce.
- Experiment with additional seasonings like onion powder, garlic powder, or dried herbs.
The Best Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe I’ve Ever Tried
I’ve tried many methods, from searing the meat to using different soups. I’ve learned that consistency is key. The best version balances the meat’s natural flavors with the right seasonings, and it isn’t too salty. Remember, cube steak in crock pot is an art you can customize—so feel free to adapt based on your palate.
How to Make This Slow Cooker Cube Steak
- Optional Pre-Sear: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet. Brown each side of the cube steak for about a minute to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare the Sauce: Mix a can of cream soup, half a cup of broth, a gravy mix packet, and any extra spices you love.
- Layer & Cook: Place onions in the bottom of the slow cooker, top with the steak, and pour in the sauce.
- Low & Slow: Cover and cook for 6–8 hours on LOW.
- Finish Strong: If needed, thicken the gravy. Then, plate your cube steak and enjoy your crock pot masterpiece!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Cube Steak
- Mac & Cheese: Comfort meets comfort.
- Green Beans: Add color and crunch to offset the gravy.
- Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp side that balances the richness of the steak.
- Corn Muffins: Slight sweetness pairs brilliantly with savory gravy.
Make it Healthier:
- Reduce Sodium: Opt for low-sodium soup and gravy packets, and check labels.
- Add Veggies: Carrots, bell peppers, or peas can sneak in extra nutrients.
- Skim Excess Fat: If you’re sensitive to heavy sauces, remove fatty oil pools with a spoon or ladle.
Make it Kid Friendly:
- Mild Seasonings: Go lighter on strong herbs or onion if your little ones are picky.
- Serve with Mashed Potatoes: Kids often love the soft, creamy texture.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle mozzarella or cheddar on top. Let it melt for a cheesy crust.
Swap Ideas:
- Cube Steak vs. Minute Steak: They’re similar; just tenderize minute steak if needed.
- Different Soups: Cream of celery, cream of bacon, or even cheddar cheese soup for a bolder twist.
- Homemade Gravy: Prefer scratch cooking? Make a simple roux with butter and flour, then whisk in beef stock.
Shopping Tips:
- Buy in Bulk: Keep an eye out for sales; cube steak can be frozen for a few months without losing quality.
- Check Sodium Levels: Gravies, broths, and canned soups can vary wildly in salt content.
- Select Fresh Meat: If possible, pick steaks with minimal discoloration and consistent thickness.
FOR MORE INEXPENSIVE SLOW COOKER RECIPES CHECK OUT THESE VIDEOS:
I love sharing how easy it can be to craft comforting meals on a budget. Some personal favorites include slow cooker chili, beef stew, and pulled chicken. Hop over to my channel or video library to see how these recipes compare with cube steak in crock pot.
MORE SLOW COOKER RECIPES TO TRY:
- Slow Cooker Pot Roast: Another hearty beef recipe with carrots and potatoes.
- Crock Pot Meatloaf: A family-style favorite, surprisingly easy to perfect.
- Chicken and Dumplings: Creamy, irresistible comfort—no stove required.
- Slow Cooker Fajitas: A tasty, colorful dish with peppers, onions, and your choice of protein.
The Best Slow Cooker Cube Steak
This article believes that cube steak in the crock pot is one of the easiest ways to improve your dinner. The tender texture and flexible flavors make it a foolproof dish that everyone will love. Now that you know the essential steps, there’s no reason not to give it a go.
Cooking cube steak in crock pot is about convenience, flavor, and the joy of a home-cooked meal. The slow, steady heat breaks down tough fibers. It turns an affordable cut of meat into a restaurant-quality dish. Plus, you can customize the gravy and sides in countless ways—so you never get bored.
As you explore cube steak in the crock pot, feel free to try different soups, seasonings, or vegetables. The options are limitless, making it even more enjoyable. Remember to share your findings with friends or in the comments section below. Who knows—you might inspire someone else to create their own Crock Pot masterpiece!
Key Takeaways
- Budget-Friendly: Cube steak in crock pot is economical and easy to scale for families.
- Tender & Juicy: The low-and-slow method yields soft, flavorful meat.
- Gravy Heaven: It creates its own sauce, perfect for drizzling over potatoes or rice.
- Flexible & Forgiving: You can adjust seasonings, add vegetables, or change the soup base.
Thank you for reading! If you’ve made cube steak in crock pot before, we’d love to hear how it turned out. Feel free to leave a comment or share your unique spin on this slow cooker classic.
Additional Recipes You’ll Love
- 30-Minute Shaved Steak Stir Fry
- Slow Cooked Beef Cheeks That Melt in Your Mouth
- Air Fryer Frozen Hamburgers: The Ultimate Guide to Quick, Crispy, & Healthy Meals
- Venison Stroganoff: A Rich and Flavorful Twist on a Classic
How to Cook Cube Steak in Crock Pot
Ingredients
- 2 lbs cube steak 1 tbsp water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup optional vegetables (e.g., carrots, bell peppers, potatoes), chopped
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 1 tbsp water (optional, for cornstarch slurry)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the onion and chop optional vegetables.Optional Searing: Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear cube steak for 2-3 minutes per side. This step enhances flavor but is not required.Layer in Crock Pot:Place the cube steak at the bottom of the crock pot.Add sliced onions and any optional vegetables on top.Add Liquids:Pour beef broth and cream of mushroom soup over the ingredients.Stir gently to combine.Season: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and any additional spices, such as garlic powder or paprika, if desired.Cook:Set to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The cube steak should be tender and easy to pull apart with a fork.Thicken Sauce (Optional): If the sauce is too thin, mix cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Stir it into the crock pot and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.Serve: Serve hot with your choice of sides, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese if desired.
Notes
- Customizable Ingredients: Add other vegetables like green beans, mushrooms, or potatoes for more variety.
- Cream of Mushroom Substitution: Use cream of chicken soup or a homemade sauce.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.