Easy Crock Pot Cubed Steak Recipe With Gravy

Growing up in a busy Midwestern kitchen, I learned that simple ingredients make the best meals. My grandmother’s slow cooker was her secret for making budget-friendly meat into delicious dinners. These meals brought our family together.

This crock pot cubed steak recipe is a classic. It turns an affordable cut of meat into a tender, flavorful meal with little effort. It’s perfect for busy families or anyone who wants a hearty dinner without spending hours cooking.

Whether you’re new to cooking or experienced, this easy beef stew-inspired dish will be a favorite. With just a few ingredients and your crock pot, you’ll make a meal that tastes like it’s been cooking all day.

Get ready to see how easy and tasty a crock pot cubed steak recipe can be. Your taste buds—and your family—will love it.

What is Cubed Steak and Why Use It?

Cubed steak is a budget-friendly dinner staple. It turns an affordable cut of meat into a tasty comfort food. This special meat comes from top round or top sirloin. It’s made tender and easy to cook.

Understanding Cubed Steak

The unique feature of tender cube steak is its tenderizing process. Butchers pound the meat with a special mallet. This creates small cube-like indentations on its surface.

These indentations do two key things:

• Break down tough muscle fibers
• Create optimal texture for slow cooking
• Help meat absorb marinades and seasonings

Benefits for Home Cooks

Cubed steak is great for home cooks. It’s an affordable protein that turns into a tasty meal with little prep.

Cultural Significance

In American cuisine, cubed steak is more than a meal. It’s a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked family dinners. It symbolizes comfort and affordability. Loved in Southern kitchens and Midwestern dinner tables alike.

Ingredients for Your Crock Pot Recipe

Starting with the right ingredients is key to making tasty one pot meals. This cubed steak recipe turns simple parts into a hearty dish. It’s sure to make everyone want more.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

Here are the main ingredients for this classic crock pot meal:

• 4-6 pieces of cubed steak
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 packet dry onion soup mix
• 1 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

Want to add more flavor to your family recipe? Try these optional ingredients:

• Fresh sliced mushrooms
• Small new potatoes
• Chopped garlic
• Fresh thyme

Tips for Selecting the Best Cubed Steak

Choosing the right cubed steak is important for your one pot meals. Remember these tips:

1. Choose meat with little fat marbling
2. Opt for steaks that are the same thickness
3. Buy from a trusted butcher
4. Look for fresh meat with a bright red color

Pro tip: Ask your local butcher for the best cut. They can help you find tender, flavorful meat for your crock pot meals.

Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions

Starting an easy beef stew in your slow cooker is simple. It’s a great choice for those with busy lives. The secret to a great slow cooker beef recipe is in the prep work.

Preparing the Cubed Steak

First, pick high-quality cubed steak from your local butcher or store. Before cooking, take a few steps to prepare the meat:

• Pat the cubed steak dry with paper towels
• Season generously with salt and black pepper
• Optional: Lightly dredge in seasoned flour for extra texture

Mixing the Gravy Ingredients

The gravy makes this simple recipe into a delicious meal. Here’s what you need:

1. 1 can cream of mushroom soup
2. 1/2 cup beef broth
3. 1 packet of onion soup mix
4. 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Pro tip: Whisk these ingredients together until smooth for the most flavorful gravy.

Layering in the Crock Pot

Layering is key for even cooking. Follow these steps:

• Place sliced onions at the bottom of the crock pot
• Arrange seasoned cubed steaks on top of onions
• Pour the prepared gravy mixture over the meat
• Cover and prepare for slow cooking magic

These steps ensure your stew will be tender, flavorful, and a hit at dinner.

Cooking Your Cubed Steak in the Crock Pot

Learning to make a tasty crock pot cubed steak recipe is easy. It turns tough meat into a tender, delicious dish your family will enjoy. The beauty of one pot meals is their simplicity and rich flavors.

Getting the perfect tender cube steak is all about time and temperature. Your crock pot is a magic tool that tenderizes the meat and adds deep flavors.

Recommended Cooking Times

For the best results, follow these cooking times:

• Low Setting: 6-8 hours (Recommended for maximum tenderness)
• High Setting: 4-5 hours
• Pro Tip: Longer cooking times on low heat produce the most tender results

Setting the Right Temperature

Temperature is key in your crock pot cubed steak recipe. Cooking low and slow keeps your meat juicy and tender.

• Low Setting: Ideal for tenderizing meat
• High Setting: Faster cooking for time-sensitive meals
• Always use enough liquid to prevent drying out

How to Know When It’s Done

Checking if your one pot meal is done is simple:

• Meat should easily pull apart with a fork
• Internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare
• Gravy looks thick and rich
• Meat appears brown and tender throughout

Remember, patience is key when making the perfect tender cube steak in your crock pot. Let the slow cooking do its magic, and you’ll get a delicious, tender meal.

Serving Suggestions for Cubed Steak

Your crock pot cubed steak is a classic comfort food that brings families together. It’s a budget-friendly dinner that everyone loves. There are many delicious ways to serve it.

Perfect Side Dish Pairings

The rich, savory flavors of cubed steak go great with many side dishes. Family recipes suggest serving it over:

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles
• Steamed white rice

Vegetable Companions

Balance your meal with nutritious vegetable sides. They complement the meat’s flavor well:

• Roasted green beans
• Honey-glazed carrots
• Steamed broccoli
• Fresh garden salad

Creative Leftover Ideas

Turn your leftover cubed steak into exciting meals. Try these ideas:

• Shredded steak sandwiches
• Steak and gravy over toast
• Steak-filled casseroles
• Steak and vegetable wraps

Presentation Tips

Make your family recipes look great with simple garnishes. Sprinkle fresh parsley, add sour cream, or place butter on top. It makes your cubed steak look like it’s from a restaurant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Preparing crock pot meals can raise many questions. Our slow cooker beef recipes often come with unique challenges. This section will help you navigate common concerns and master your cubed steak recipe.

When making make ahead dishes like this cubed steak, many wonder about meat tenderness. The key is low and slow cooking. Your crock pot allows tough cuts of meat to break down gradually, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Typically, cooking on low heat for 6-8 hours ensures the most tender results.

Preventing Tough Meat

Selecting the right cut of meat matters. Choose cubed steak with minimal visible fat and avoid overcooking. If your meat seems tough, try adding a bit more liquid or reducing cooking time slightly. Lean cuts can dry out quickly, so monitoring moisture is crucial.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover cubed steak in airtight containers within two hours of cooking. Refrigerated portions remain safe for 3-4 days. When reheating, use low temperatures and add a splash of broth to prevent drying. Microwaving works best when covered and stirred occasionally to distribute heat evenly.

Recipe Variations

Experiment with your slow cooker beef recipes by switching up ingredients. Try cream of mushroom soup instead of traditional gravy, or add root vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Worcestershire sauce can enhance flavor depth. Each variation brings a unique twist to this classic comfort food.

FAQ

How long can I store leftover crock pot cubed steak?

Leftover cubed steak can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Use an airtight container. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a bit of gravy to keep it moist.

Can I freeze crock pot cubed steak?

Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or bags. Remove air before sealing. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Is it necessary to brown the cubed steak before putting it in the crock pot?

Browning is optional but adds flavor. It also makes the steak look richer. If you’re in a hurry, skip it. Your steak will still be tender and tasty.

What if my gravy is too thin?

To thicken the gravy, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with cold water. Stir it in during the last 30 minutes. Or, remove the lid for an hour to let some liquid evaporate.

Can I use a different type of cream soup instead of mushroom?

Yes! Try cream of chicken or celery. Or make your own cream sauce. Each will give a different flavor but keeps the creamy texture.

How can I make this recipe more low-sodium?

Use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup. Cut down on packaged gravy mix. Choose low-sodium beef broth. Add herbs and spices for flavor instead of salt.

What are the best side dishes to serve with crock pot cubed steak?

Serve it with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or white rice. Roasted carrots and green beans are also great. A fresh salad adds a nice contrast.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the ingredients the night before. Store them in the fridge. Start your crock pot in the morning. It’s perfect for busy days.