Introduction:
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of Crock Pot Cube Steak! This dish features tender cube steak slow-cooked to perfection in a delicious gravy, making it a classic comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it over mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy!
Inspiration Behind the Recipe:
Crock Pot Cube Steak has long been a favorite in many households for its simplicity and comforting flavors. Slow cooking allows the meat to become incredibly tender while infusing it with the savory essence of the gravy, creating a meal that warms the heart and soul.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds cube steak
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup frozen peas or carrots for added color and nutrition
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Prepare the Meat:
- Season the cube steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If desired, you can brown the meat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side to enhance the flavor (this step is optional).
- Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
- Place the sliced onions at the bottom of the crock pot. Arrange the seasoned cube steak on top of the onions. If using, add sliced mushrooms over the steak.
- Add Soup and Broth:
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and ranch seasoning until well combined. Pour this mixture over the cube steak in the crock pot.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the steak is tender and cooked through.
- Finish and Serve:
- Once cooked, taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the cube steak with the gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. If desired, stir in frozen peas or carrots for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Tips for the Perfect Crock Pot Cube Steak:
- Use Quality Meat: Look for well-marbled cube steak for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Don’t Skip the Seasoning: Seasoning the meat before cooking enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Customize the Gravy: Feel free to add other herbs and spices, like thyme or paprika, to suit your taste.
Variations and Customizations:
- Smothered in Onions: Add extra onions or even caramelized onions for a deeper flavor.
- Creamy Gravy Variation: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken or a homemade white gravy for a different twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the cube steak with portobello mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
Health Considerations and Nutritional Value:
- Balanced Meal: This dish provides protein from the cube steak and can be balanced with sides of vegetables.
- Moderate Ingredients: While flavorful, it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if served with rich sides.
FAQ:
- Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. - Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Cooked cube steak can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container. - What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles, along with steamed vegetables or a side salad.
Crock Pot Cube Steak
Enjoy the rich flavors of Crock Pot Cube Steak, featuring tender meat slow-cooked in a savory gravy. This easy and satisfying dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Equipment
- Crockpot
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs cube steak
- 1 package onion soup mix 1 ounce
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup 10.5 ounces each
- 1 cup beef broth
- 12 oz egg noodles
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
Prepare the Crockpot:
- Place the cube steak, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth in a 6-quart crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.
Thicken the Gravy:
- 1 hour before serving, mix the cornstarch and water together in a small bowl to create a slurry.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the crockpot and cook on high for 1 hour to thicken the gravy.
Cook the Noodles:
- While the gravy is thickening, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions.
Serve:
- Serve the steak and gravy over the cooked egg noodles. Enjoy!
Notes
- Make-Ahead: This recipe is easy to make ahead and is perfect for busy days when you need a comforting meal.
- Gravy Consistency: If the gravy isn’t thick enough after the cornstarch step, you can add a little more cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 15-30 minutes.
