Delicious Cube Steak Recipes for Your Crock Pot
Cube Steak Recipes for Crock Pot with Gravy is a simple dinner for busy weeknights. It turns cheap meat into a tender, tasty meal. Cube steak, from the cow’s shoulder, gets soft when slow-cooked in your crock pot.
This easy recipe uses cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, and au jus gravy mix. These ingredients make a rich, savory gravy that goes well with the steak.
The recipe needs 4 cubed steaks, which you can adjust based on your slow cooker size. After 6-8 hours of slow cooking, the steak will be very tender. The gravy will also thicken beautifully. Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. This makes it perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner any night.
Understanding Cube Steak: From Butcher Block to Dinner Table
Cube steak is a special cut of beef that’s worth exploring. It comes from the cow’s shoulder, a muscle that’s quite tough. But, when it’s tenderized, it becomes tender and flavorful.
What Makes Cube Steak Different
The tenderizing process makes cube steak lean and tasty. It cooks fast, unlike other beef cuts. It’s also called “minute steak” because it cooks quickly.
Best Cuts for Cube Steak
Top round and top sirloin are the best cuts for cube steak. These cuts are lean and tough, but tenderizing makes them tender and flavorful.
Proper Storage and Handling
Keep cube steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Don’t freeze it, as it can lose its tenderness. Handle it gently when you’re ready to cook.
“Cube steak is a versatile and budget-friendly cut of beef that deserves a place in your recipe repertoire.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Crock Pot Cube Steak
Making a tasty Crock Pot cube steak dish starts with the right ingredients. You’ll need tender cube steak, creamy soups, savory gravy mix, and simple seasonings. These elements come together to make a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for busy nights.
Begin with high-quality cube steak. It’s usually from the top round or sirloin, tenderized to be soft. Choose steak that’s well-marbled and has no excess fat for the best taste.
For the dish’s base, mix cream of chicken soup and cream of mushroom soup. They add creaminess and create a rich sauce as the steak cooks. Adding au jus gravy mix or Lipton Onion Soup mix boosts flavor.
Season your dish with important ingredients. Use paprika, garlic, and herbs to enhance taste and aroma. Sliced onions or mushrooms add extra flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cube Steak | 8 pieces |
| Cream of Chicken Soup | 10.5 oz can |
| Cream of Mushroom Soup | 10.5 oz can |
| Beef Broth | 8 oz |
| Cornstarch | 3 tbsp |
| Dried Onion Soup Mix | 1 packet |
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Crock Pot cube steak. Slow cooking is key for tender, flavorful steak. Let it cook for a while to meld flavors and make the meat tender.
Classic Cube Crock Pot Style
Cube steak is a versatile and budget-friendly cut of beef. It shines when slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot. Discover three classic cube steak recipes that turn this tough cut into tender, deliciousness.
Traditional Gravy Method
This method uses cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups with beef gravy mix. It creates a rich, savory gravy that coats the tender cube steak. Brown the cube steak first, then let the crock pot cook it for 6-8 hours on low.
French Onion Version
The French onion cube steak recipe adds a can of French onion soup. This creates a sumptuous sauce that complements the tender cube steak perfectly.
Mushroom and Wine Variation
This version uses sautéed mushrooms and beef broth or stock. It adds an earthy, sophisticated touch. The slow cooking keeps the meat moist and tender, while the sauce develops rich flavors.
The secret to success is slow-cooking the cube steak in the crock pot for 6-8 hours. This makes the meat tender and the gravy or sauce thick and perfect. Adding a cornstarch slurry at the end can make the gravy even better.
Serve these classic cube steak dishes over mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or with your favorite vegetable sides. They make for a hearty, comforting meal. Leftovers are great for sandwiches or can be frozen for easy meals.
Time and Temperature Guidelines for Tender Results
To get tender cube steak in your slow cooker, pay attention to cooking time and temperature. Cooking on the low setting for 6-8 hours is best. This long time breaks down tough fibers, making the steak tender.
Using the high setting for 3-4 hours cooks faster but might not be as tender. For the best results, choose the low setting. It may take more planning, but it’s worth it.
Digital crockpots with automatic warm settings are great for cube steak. They keep your dish warm until you’re ready. Make sure the steak’s internal temperature is 145°F (63°C) before serving. Don’t open the lid too often, as it can mess with the temperature needed for tenderness.
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature | Tenderness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Slow Cooker (Low) | 6-8 hours | 145°F (63°C) | Most Tender |
| Slow Cooker (High) | 3-4 hours | 145°F (63°C) | Moderately Tender |
| Stovetop | 2 hours | 145°F (63°C) | Least Tender |
By following these slow cooker timing and cube steak temperature guidelines, you’ll enjoy tender cube steak every time.
Creating Rich and Flavorful Gravy Bases
Starting with a great gravy is key to a delicious cube steak dish. You can use a soup mix or make it from scratch. The right gravy turns a simple meal into a comforting, flavorful treat.
Soup Mix Combinations
Using soup mixes is a simple way to make a tasty gravy. Mix cream of chicken or mushroom soup with French onion and au jus mixes. This blend of flavors pairs well with cube steak.
Homemade Gravy Options
For a homemade touch, start with beef bone broth or stock. Add tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it. Adjust the thickness as needed.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cube Steak | 4 steaks |
| All-Purpose Flour | 1 cup |
| Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion Powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion, thinly sliced | 1 large |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Beef Broth | 1 cup |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1/4 cup |
| Dried Thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried Rosemary | 1 teaspoon |
| Heavy Cream | 1/2 cup |
| Fresh Parsley, chopped | As needed |
Exploring these cube steak gravy options can make a big difference. Whether you choose a soup mix or go homemade, the right homemade gravy will take your cube steak dish to the next level.
Best Side Dishes to Complement Your Cube Steak
Choosing the right side dishes for your cube steak is easy. You can pick from many options, like hearty starches or tasty vegetables. These choices help make your meal balanced and enjoyable.
For a classic choice, pair your cube steak with mashed potatoes or creamy rice pilaf. These sides soak up the savory gravy well. Egg noodles are also great, adding a delicate touch to the meal.
Want to add more veggies to your plate? Try French green beans, oven-roasted carrots, or fresh corn on the cob. These vegetable sides add color, nutrition, and contrast to the cube steak.
For a lighter option, serve your cube steak with cauliflower rice or add zucchini or spinach to the crock pot. These starch accompaniments are healthier but still filling.
Remember, a warm dinner roll is essential. It helps soak up the gravy. With the right sides, your cube steak will be the star of the meal.
| Side Dish | Percentage of Recipes Featuring |
|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | 12.5% |
| Rice Pilaf | 12.5% |
| Egg Noodles | 6.25% |
| French Green Beans | 6.25% |
| Oven-Roasted Carrots | 6.25% |
| Corn on the Cob | 6.25% |
| Cauliflower Rice | 6.25% |
| Chopped Zucchini | 6.25% |
| Chopped Spinach | 6.25% |
| Dinner Rolls | 100% |
The table shows the most popular cube steak sides, vegetable sides, and starch accompaniments from 16 recipes. It helps you choose the best sides for your cube steak.
Tips for Achieving Fork-Tender Cube Steak
Getting your cube steak tender is key for that melt-in-your-mouth feel when slow cooking. A few simple steps can turn tough cuts into tender bites.
Tenderizing Techniques
Begin by pounding the cube steak with a meat mallet until it’s about 1/4-inch thick. This method tenderizes the meat by breaking down tough fibers. You can also marinate it in acidic liquids like vinegar, wine, or citrus juice. This helps break down proteins further.
Moisture Control Methods
To keep your moist cube steak juicy, make sure it’s always covered in flavorful gravy or broth. This prevents it from drying out. Cooking it low and slow, around 8 hours on low, helps break down connective tissues for tenderness.
If your cube steak isn’t tender after 8 hours, it just needs more time. But don’t overcook it. Make sure there’s enough liquid to keep it moist.
By using these tenderizing and moisture control tips, you’ll get tender and tasty cube steak every time.
Budget-Friendly Meal Planning with Cube Steak
Cube steak is a budget-friendly cut of beef. It’s versatile and can make simple meals tasty and affordable. Stock up on it when prices are low and freeze it for later. Choose generic brands for cream soups, gravy mixes, and onion soup mixes to save more.
With just a few ingredients, you can make a delicious cube steak dinner for under $10. It serves many people. Serve it over rice or noodles to make it last longer. The leftover gravy is great for other dishes, saving your food budget.
| Ingredient | Cost |
|---|---|
| 4 cube steaks | $6.00 |
| 1 can cream of mushroom soup | $1.50 |
| 1 packet onion soup mix | $1.00 |
| 1 cup water | $0.00 |
| Total | $8.50 |
Using cube steak for budget meals and economical cooking lets you enjoy tasty dinners without spending a lot.
“The key to affordable and flavorful meals is finding ways to maximize your ingredients, and cube steak is an excellent option for doing just that.”
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
When making delicious cube steak in your slow cooker, watch out for common mistakes. Issues like temperature control and seasoning can affect the tenderness of your meat. Knowing these pitfalls can help you achieve the perfect dish.
Temperature Control Issues
One mistake to avoid is cooking cube steak on high heat. High temperatures can make the meat tough and chewy. Instead, use a lower setting for slow cooking to ensure tenderness.
Also, don’t open the slow cooker lid too often. Each time you open it, you lose heat. This can make the meat cook longer and affect its texture.
Seasoning Errors
Seasoning is key, but balance is important. Be careful with salt in pre-made mixes or packets. They can be too salty. Use low-sodium options or adjust the seasoning later to avoid over-salting.
Make sure your cube steak is thawed before cooking. Cooking frozen meat can cause uneven cooking and safety issues. Let it come to room temperature before cooking.
Lastly, don’t overcrowd the slow cooker. Use the right size for the amount of meat. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming or boiling, which can ruin the texture.
By avoiding these cube steak mistakes, and slow cooker errors, and focusing on proper seasoning, you’ll make delicious, tender cube steak. Your family and friends will love it.
Make-Ahead and Storage Solutions
Preparing your cube steak meal in advance can save you time and hassle on busy weeknights. Start by prepping the ingredients the night before. Chop the onions, mince the garlic, and have all your seasonings measured and ready to go. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble and cook in your slow cooker in the morning.
When it comes to leftovers, you’ll be pleased to know that cube steak and gravy keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply transfer the remaining portions to an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to enjoy. For longer-term storage, consider freezing individual servings with the gravy. Frozen cube steak can be kept for 2-3 months, just be sure to thaw completely before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
By planning and utilizing smart storage strategies, you can maximize your time and stretch your budget with delicious, homemade cube steak dishes all week long. Meal prep cube steak for easy weeknight dinners, and freeze leftover portions for quick and convenient meals down the line.