Introduction Crock Pot Cube Steak

Cube steak, a tenderized cut of beef usually derived from tougher cuts like round or chuck steak, is a staple in many comfort food recipes, especially when prepared in the slow cooker. This affordable, versatile meat is perfect for slow cooking because the extended cooking time allows the collagen in the stricter muscle fibers to break down, transforming it into a soft, juicy piece of meat. The tenderness and enhanced flavor absorption make cube steak an excellent choice for slow cooker recipes, as it can soak up the rich, savory sauces and seasonings often used in these dishes.

Slow cooking is ideal for cube steak because it maintains moisture and evenly cooks the meat. The low heat gently breaks down the fibers, resulting in a tender, flavorful steak. Additionally, slow cooking allows for various creative variations, from rich gravies to flavorful broths, making it an excellent option for busy families or anyone looking for a delicious, no-fuss meal. The convenience of a slow cooker ensures that you can prepare a hearty meal with minimal effort while achieving a restaurant-quality dish.

What is Cube Steak?

Cube steak is a cut of beef that typically comes from tougher cuts like round or chuck. To make it more tender, it's mechanically tenderized, often through a process called "cubing," where the meat is pierced with small blades. This breaks down the muscle fibers and connective tissues, making the meat softer and easier to cook. The result is a thinner steak with small indentations, giving it the name "cube steak."

Cube steak differs from cuts like chuck roast and sirloin in its preparation and intended use. While chuck roast is a more significant, brutal cut typically used for braising, cube steak is much thinner and ideal for quick cooking methods like pan-frying or slow cooking. Sirloin, on the other hand, is naturally tender and doesn't require tenderization. Unlike these cuts, cube steak's affordability and tenderness after slow cooking make it popular for comfort food dishes like smothered steak, steak, and gravy.

Why Cook Cube Steak in a Slow Cooker?

Cooking cube steak in a slow cooker brings out the best in this affordable and often challenging cut of meat. Slow cooking breaks down the connective tissue and muscle fibers, turning what might be a chewy steak into a fork-tender, flavorful dish. The slow, low heat allows the meat to absorb the rich flavors of the broth, seasonings, and any added vegetables, resulting in a profoundly savory meal.

One of the significant benefits of using a slow cooker is its ability to retain moisture. Unlike stovetop cooking, which can dry out meats quickly, the slow cooker locks in the juices. As the cube steak simmers in the crockpot, it slowly releases its natural juices and absorbs the surrounding flavors, creating a moist, succulent steak that melts in your mouth.

Cooking cube steak on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours is recommended for optimal results. Slow cooking on low heat ensures that the meat becomes tender and that the flavors meld together, while high heat reduces the cooking time but still provides excellent results. Always check the meat at the end of the recommended cooking time to ensure it's perfectly tender and ready to serve. This method is perfect for busy days, as it requires minimal preparation and offers a satisfying, comforting meal at the end of the day.

Ingredients Needed for Slow Cooker Cube Steak

You'll need a few essential ingredients to make a delicious slow cooker cube steak. The base of the dish includes cube steak, typically cut from the round or chuck portions of beef. Along with the steak, beef broth serves as the liquid component, adding depth and richness to the flavor. A can of cream of mushroom soup provides a creamy texture and a savory, earthy base for the sauce.

You'll need onions and garlic to enhance the flavor, which brings aromatic qualities to the dish. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and spices like onion powder or thyme will help elevate the overall taste.

If you're looking to cater to dietary needs, there are variations you can try. For a low-sodium version, opt for a reduced-sodium broth and soup. Gluten-free and dairy-free versions can easily be made by choosing appropriate substitutes like gluten-free broth and dairy-free soups, ensuring the recipe stays inclusive without sacrificing flavor.

How to Prepare Cube Steak for the Slow Cooker

Season the Steak: Season the cube steak with salt, pepper, and desired spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or thyme. Make sure to evenly coat both sides of the steak to ensure consistent flavor.

Optional Browning (for enhanced flavor): While not mandatory, browning the steak before adding it to the slow cooker can significantly enhance the flavor. To do this, heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the cube steak on each side for 2-3 minutes, creating a savory crust. This step adds depth to the overall taste by caramelizing the meat and enhancing its natural juices.

Prepare the Slow Cooker: Add the browned or unbrowned steak to the slow cooker. Then, pour beef broth and a can of mushroom soup for a creamy base. For added aroma and richness, you can also toss in sliced onions and minced garlic.

Set It and Forget It: Once everything is in place, cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the steak is fork-tender.

Following these simple steps, your cube steak will be perfectly seasoned, tender, and ready to enjoy in a hearty meal!

Instructions for Cooking Cube Steak in the Slow Cooker

Layer the Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Start by placing the seasoned cube steak at the bottom of the slow cooker. You can brown the steak beforehand for enhanced flavor, but it can go straight in if you're in a rush. Next, layer in your other ingredients, including beef broth, to help tenderize the meat and add moisture, cream of mushroom soup for a rich, creamy base, and onions and garlic for flavor depth.

Cooking Time and Settings

Set your slow cooker to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, depending on your time and desired tenderness. Cooking on low is ideal for breaking down the stricter fibers in cube steak, making it fork-tender and delicious. If you're short on time, the high setting will still give you great results, though it could be more effective at creating the same level of tenderness as the low setting.

Check for Doneness

To ensure your steak is fully cooked and fork-tender, check the steak after the recommended cooking time. It should easily shred with a fork, and the meat should be juicy and moist. To avoid overcooking, it's important not to leave the lid off during cooking, as this can cause excess moisture to escape.

These steps create a perfectly tender, flavorful cube steak that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles!

How to Make Gravy in the Slow Cooker

After your cube steak is tender and cooked, you'll have delicious, flavorful juices left in the slow cooker that can be transformed into a rich gravy.

Use the Juices

Start by scooping some liquid from the slow cooker into a small saucepan. You'll want about 1 to 1.5 cups of liquid to make the gravy.

Thickening the Gravy

You can use cornstarch or a flour slurry to thicken the gravy. If using cornstarch, mix 1-2 tablespoons with a bit of cold water until smooth, then whisk it into the hot broth. If using flour, make a slurry by mixing equal parts flour and cold water (about one tablespoon each) and adding it to the simmering broth. Both methods will help thicken the liquid.

Simmering and Stirring

Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly. As the gravy simmers, it will thicken to a perfect consistency. Be patient and keep stirring to avoid lumps.

Final Touches

For an extra smooth texture, use a whisk, and don't forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

This homemade gravy is perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes, rice, or cube steak. The richness and flavor of the slow-cooked steak make it irresistibly delicious.

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Cube Steak and Gravy

When serving slow cooker cube steak with gravy, pairing it with sides that complement its richness can elevate the meal. Here are some excellent side dishes:

Mashed Potatoes

The creamy texture of mashed potatoes makes a perfect match for the savory gravy, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop. Try classic mashed potatoes, or add some garlic or herbs for extra flavor.

Rice

Fluffy white or brown rice also pairs beautifully with the gravy, absorbing the rich sauce while offering a lighter alternative to potatoes.

Egg Noodles

Egg noodles are another great option. Their soft texture and ability to hold gravy make them a satisfying choice for this dish.

Roasted Vegetables

For a balance of flavors, serve with roasted vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans. The slight caramelization from roasting provides a nice contrast to the tender steak and rich gravy.

These sides complement the hearty, tender steak, enhancing the dining experience.

Top Tips for Perfect Cube Steak in the Slow Cooker

To achieve tender, juicy cube steak in the slow cooker, follow these tips:

Proper Seasoning

Season the steak generously before cooking. This helps to enhance the flavor of the meat. You can use a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. For added depth, consider marinating the steak for an hour before cooking.

Maintain Liquid Levels

Always ensure enough liquid in the slow cooker to prevent the steak from drying. Use beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, or a combination of both. The liquid helps keep the meat moist and creates a flavorful gravy.

Low and Slow Cooking

To achieve the best texture, cook your cube steak on low for 6-8 hours. Cooking on high can result in a more rigid texture. Slow cooking allows the meat to break down properly and become fork-tender.

Avoid Overcooking

Make sure to overcook the steak, which can become dry and tough. Always check the steak's doneness towards the end of the cooking time.

Thicken the Gravy

Be sure to complete the gravy thickening process. Use a cornstarch or flour slurry to achieve a smooth, rich gravy. This step ensures your meal has the perfect consistency to pair with your steak.

Following these tips ensures your slow-cooked cube steak is tender, flavorful, and satisfying.

Variations for Different Flavors and Dietary Preferences

Flavor Variations

To give your slow-cooked cube steak more depth of flavor, consider adding ingredients such as mushrooms, which infuse the dish with earthiness. You can also experiment with different types of soup, such as cream of celery or onion soup mix, to change the gravy base and offer unique flavors. Fresh herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves, can add a fragrant twist to the dish. Adding red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper can bring an extra kick for those who love a bit of spice.

Dietary Variations

For those following specific diets, the recipe is highly adaptable. You can make it low-sodium by using low-sodium beef broth or substituting it with water and a few extra seasonings. For gluten-free options, replace any gravy flour with cornstarch or arrowroot powder. For those on a keto diet, use a low-carb substitute for the cream of mushroom soup (or make your own with heavy cream, mushrooms, and seasonings) and serve with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.

Creative Additions

To add more complexity to the dish, consider adding bell peppers for a sweet and tangy flavor or a splash of red wine for richness and depth. These creative ingredients can enhance the savory elements and give the steak and gravy a distinctive, bold twist.

FAQ

Does slow cooking make cube steak tender?

Slow cooking is ideal for cube steak because it helps break down the tough muscle fibers, turning it into a fork-tender dish. The long, slow cooking process dissolves the connective tissues, enhancing the meat's texture and flavor. Cooking it in a slow cooker allows the steak to absorb the savory flavors from the broth, seasonings, and other ingredients.

Can you cook frozen cube steak in a crock pot?

Cooking frozen cube steak directly in the crock pot is not recommended. Starting with frozen meat can result in uneven cooking, which can lead to safety concerns. It's best to thaw the cube steak before adding it to the slow cooker. If you need to cook it straight from frozen, consider adjusting the cooking time and ensuring the meat reaches a safe internal temperature.

How do you thicken gravy in the slow cooker?

You can use cornstarch or flour slurry to thicken the gravy in the slow cooker. To make a cornstarch slurry, mix equal parts cornstarch and cold water until smooth, then stir it into the hot sauce. Whisk together flour and water for a flour slurry, then gradually stir it into the gravy to avoid clumping. Let the gravy cook for a few more minutes to reach your desired thickness. For lump-free results, whisk the slurry mixture well before adding.

What is the best cut of beef for slow cooking?

The best cuts of meat for slow cooking are tougher but rich in connective tissue, which becomes tender during slow cooking. Cube steak, chuck roast, round steak, and brisket are all great options. These cuts are typically less expensive and become incredibly tender when simmered. Cube steak is particularly popular for its affordability and tenderness once simmered.

How do you avoid overcooking cube steak in the slow cooker?

To prevent overcooking cube steak in the slow cooker, following the recommended cooking times is essential. Typically, cube steak should be cooked on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Overcooking can result in dry, tough meat. It's also crucial to use enough liquid (broth or soup) to help retain moisture throughout cooking. Avoid opening the lid during cooking, as this can lower the temperature and affect the cooking time.