Delicious and Easy Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe

by

Introduction

Cube steak, a budget-friendly and versatile cut of beef, becomes a hearty, comforting dish when prepared in a crock pot. The slow-cooking process tenderizes the meat while infusing it with rich flavors from your chosen ingredients. This recipe is perfect for busy families, meal preppers, or anyone who craves a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything from the basics of cube steak to crafting the perfect slow-cooked recipe. You’ll learn tips and tricks, variations, and answers to common questions to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly every time.

A plate of cube steak in rich gravy served with mashed potatoes.
A savory and tender cube steak dish, slow-cooked to perfection in a crock pot.

What is Cube Steak?

Understanding the Cut of Meat

Cube steak is a type of beef that has been mechanically tenderized, giving it a distinctive dimpled texture resembling a cube-like pattern. This cut often comes from tougher portions of the cow, such as the top round or top sirloin. Its affordability and versatility make it a staple in many kitchens, especially for recipes that require slow cooking.

Nutritional Value of Cube Steak

Cube steak is a good source of protein, iron, and essential B vitamins like niacin and B12. A typical 4-ounce serving provides approximately:

  • Calories: 160
  • Protein: 26 grams
  • Fat: 5 grams
  • Iron: 15% of the recommended daily intake

While cube steak is slightly leaner than other cuts, it benefits significantly from slow cooking to become tender and juicy.

Common Uses in Recipes

Cube steak is a highly versatile ingredient, appearing in a variety of cuisines. Popular dishes include:

  • Chicken-fried steak
  • Cube steak sandwiches
  • Beef stroganoff
  • Stir-fried steak with vegetables Its texture and ability to absorb flavors make it a fantastic candidate for recipes involving gravies, marinades, or spice rubs.

Benefits of Using a Crock Pot

Time-Saving Advantages

A crock pot allows you to prepare meals with minimal active cooking time. Simply add the ingredients, set the timer, and let the machine handle the rest. This is ideal for busy days when you want a homemade meal without constant monitoring.

Enhanced Flavor Development

Slow cooking helps meld the flavors of your ingredients, creating a depth of taste that is hard to achieve with faster cooking methods. For cube steak, this means rich gravies, tender meat, and a homestyle flavor that’s hard to beat.

Retaining Nutrients and Juiciness

Unlike high-heat methods like frying or grilling, crock pots retain moisture and nutrients. Cube steak benefits from this method because it stays juicy while breaking down tough connective tissues, resulting in meat that melts in your mouth.

Ingredients for Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe

Fresh ingredients for cube steak crock pot recipe arranged on a table.
High-quality ingredients ready for a hearty cube steak crock pot recipe.

Main Ingredients

To create a flavorful and satisfying cube steak dish, you’ll need these key ingredients:

  1. Cube Steak (4-6 pieces): Ensure they’re evenly cut for consistent cooking.
  2. All-Purpose Flour (½ cup): Used to lightly coat the steak for browning.
  3. Cooking Oil (2-3 tablespoons): For searing the steak before adding it to the crock pot.
  4. Beef Broth (2 cups): Provides a savory base for the gravy.
  5. Onion (1 large, sliced): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
  6. Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced): Enhances the aroma and taste of the dish.
  7. Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced): Optional but adds a rich umami flavor.
  8. Cream of Mushroom Soup (1 can, 10.5 ounces): Thickens the gravy and adds creaminess.
  9. Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon): Balances the flavors with a hint of saltiness.
  10. Salt and Pepper (to taste): For seasoning.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

For those who want to elevate the dish further, consider adding:

  • Worcestershire Sauce (1 teaspoon): Adds tanginess and a deeper flavor profile.
  • Fresh Herbs (like thyme or parsley): Sprinkle at the end for a fresh finish.
  • Potatoes and Carrots: Create a one-pot meal by including chopped vegetables.

Choosing the Best Ingredients

  • Cube Steak Quality: Opt for fresh, bright red cuts from a reputable butcher or grocery store. Look for steaks with minimal fat for an even texture.
  • Broth Selection: Use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt level.
  • Vegetables: Fresh, firm vegetables provide the best texture and flavor when slow-cooked.
  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: A high-quality or homemade version works best if you’re aiming for a more natural flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cube Steak

  1. Lightly season the cube steak with salt and pepper.
  2. Dredge each steak in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
  3. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add cooking oil, and sear the steaks for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. This step locks in flavor.

Assembling Ingredients in the Crock Pot

  1. Layer the sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of the crock pot.
  2. Place the seared cube steaks on top.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, garlic, and soy sauce. Pour this mixture over the steaks.

Cooking Times and Tips

  1. Low Setting: Cook for 6-8 hours.
  2. High Setting: Cook for 3-4 hours, checking for tenderness.
  3. Stir occasionally if possible, but it’s not required.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the cube steak with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and flavor.

Variations of the Recipe

Mushroom and Onion Gravy Cube Steak

This classic variation emphasizes rich, earthy flavors:

  • Additional Ingredients: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms and double the amount of onions for a deeper flavor profile.
  • Preparation Tips: Sauté the mushrooms and onions in butter before adding them to the crock pot. This step enhances their flavor and prevents them from becoming too mushy.
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the gravy.Ingredients layered in a crock pot before cooking.Layered ingredients ready for slow cooking to perfection.

Cube Steak with Potatoes and Carrots

Turn your cube steak dish into a complete one-pot meal:

  • Additional Ingredients: Add 2-3 medium-sized potatoes (quartered) and 2 cups of carrots (cut into 2-inch chunks).
  • Preparation Tips: Place the vegetables at the bottom of the crock pot to ensure they cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the gravy.
  • Cooking Adjustment: Increase the cooking time by 30 minutes to ensure the vegetables are tender.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve as is for a wholesome, hearty meal.

Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly Options

For those following a low-carb or keto diet, you can easily modify the recipe:

  • Ingredient Substitutions:
    • Replace all-purpose flour with almond or coconut flour for dredging.
    • Use a low-carb or homemade cream of mushroom soup.
    • Skip starchy vegetables like potatoes and carrots; opt for zucchini or cauliflower instead.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with cauliflower mash or steamed green beans for a satisfying and keto-compliant meal.

Spicy Cube Steak

For a bold and spicy twist, try this variation:

  • Additional Ingredients:
    • Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the flour mixture.
    • Include 1 diced jalapeño or a splash of hot sauce in the gravy mix.
  • Serving Suggestions: Balance the heat with a side of creamy coleslaw or cornbread.

Gluten-Free Cube Steak

Make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities:

  • Ingredient Substitutions:
    • Use gluten-free flour for dredging the steak.
    • Ensure all canned soups and broths are labeled gluten-free.
  • Cooking Tips: Check for gluten-free certification on soy sauce or substitute it with tamari sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cube Steak

Preventing Dryness

  1. Always use a sufficient amount of liquid in the crock pot. The broth and soup combination ensures the steak stays moist.
  2. Avoid overcooking by monitoring the doneness during the last hour of cooking.

Spicing it Up: Adding Unique Flavors

  • Experiment with spices such as paprika, rosemary, or garlic powder for a personalized touch.
  • Swap soy sauce with balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

  1. Storage: Place leftover cube steak and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  2. Freezing: Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  3. Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of broth to refresh the gravy.

FAQs

How to Choose Quality Cube Steak?

When selecting cube steak, look for:

  • Color: Fresh cube steak should be bright red without any brown or gray spots.
  • Texture: The surface should be firm but not tough, with a uniform cube-like texture from the tenderizing process.
  • Marbling: Minimal fat marbling is ideal for even cooking and tender results.

If purchasing from a butcher, ask for cube steak cuts made from top sirloin or round for a leaner option.

Can You Use Frozen Cube Steak?

Yes, frozen cube steak works perfectly for this recipe. Follow these steps:

  1. Thawing: For best results, thaw the steak overnight in the refrigerator. If you’re in a rush, use the defrost setting on your microwave.
  2. Direct Cooking: If using frozen steak directly, increase the cooking time by 30-45 minutes and ensure the meat reaches the desired tenderness.

What Are Good Side Dishes for Cube Steak?

Cube steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including:

  • Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture complements the rich gravy.
  • Buttered Noodles: A classic pairing for soaking up the sauce.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a fresh, healthy contrast.
  • Cornbread or Rolls: Perfect for sopping up every last bit of gravy.

Can This Recipe Be Doubled?

Absolutely! To double the recipe:

  • Use a larger crock pot (6-8 quarts) to accommodate the additional ingredients.
  • Arrange the steaks in layers, ensuring each layer is covered with sauce to avoid uneven cooking.
  • Cooking time may need to be extended by 30 minutes, particularly for larger quantities.

How to Adjust Cooking Time for Different Crock Pot Sizes?

The size of your crock pot can influence cooking time:

  • Small Crock Pots (3-4 quarts): Reduce the quantity of ingredients to prevent overcrowding. Cooking times should remain consistent.
  • Large Crock Pots (6-8 quarts): Larger models may cook faster due to heat distribution. Check the steak for tenderness 30 minutes before the recommended cooking time ends.

What to Do If the Gravy is Too Thin?

If the gravy is thinner than desired:

  1. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry.
  2. Stir the slurry into the crock pot 30 minutes before the cooking time ends.
  3. Turn the crock pot to high and let the sauce thicken.

Alternatively, use instant potato flakes for a gluten-free thickening option.

Conclusion

This cube steak crock pot recipe combines simplicity with delicious flavors, making it a reliable choice for busy weeknights or special family meals. The slow-cooked process ensures tender, flavorful meat paired with rich, creamy gravy that everyone will enjoy. Whether you stick with the classic version or try one of the suggested variations, this dish is sure to become a household favorite.