Slow Cooker Cube Steak with Gravy: A Perfect Weeknight Meal

Table of Contents

Introduction

Cube steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized by pounding or mechanically processing it, making it an affordable yet flavorful option for various dishes. One of the best ways to cook cube steak is in a slow cooker, as the low and slow cooking process breaks down the meat's fibers, resulting in a tender, juicy steak. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld, creating a rich, savory dish that's easy to prepare and requires minimal effort.

Cube steak is not only cost-effective but also incredibly versatile. It can be used in various dishes, from classic Southern recipes like chicken-fried steak to comforting stews and braised dishes. When slow-cooked, cube steak becomes so tender that it practically falls apart, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the accompanying ingredients like gravy, onions, and spices. The slow cooking process locks in moisture, making it a perfect choice for a family meal that's both filling and satisfying. Whether preparing a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, cube steak in the slow cooker is a reliable and delicious option that delivers great taste at an affordable price.

What Is Cube Steak?

Cube steak is a tenderized cut of beef, typically made from round steak or sirloin. The key characteristic of cube steak is its texture—it's been mechanically tenderized by pounding with a meat mallet or by passing it through a machine that creates small indentations (or "cubes") in the meat. This process breaks down the tough fibers of the meat, making it more tender and ideal for cooking methods like slow cooking, braising, or frying.

What sets cube steak apart from other cuts of beef is its affordability and tenderness despite being a lean, less expensive cut. Unlike cuts like ribeye or filet mignon, which are naturally tender, cube steak requires tenderizing to enhance its texture. This makes it an excellent option for those looking to enjoy a beefy, flavorful meal on a budget. Cube steak can be as tender and juicy as more expensive cuts when appropriately cooked.

Why Use a Slow Cooker for Cube Steak?

Using a slow cooker for cube steak offers numerous advantages, significantly enhancing the tenderness and flavor of this affordable cut of beef. Slow cooking works by cooking the meat at a low, consistent temperature for several hours. This allows the connective tissues in the cube steak to break down, resulting in a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that would be difficult to achieve through other cooking methods. It's ideal for tough cuts like cube steak, which can otherwise be chewy if not cooked properly.

Slow cooking also gives the steak time to absorb all the seasonings and ingredients, creating rich, deep flavors. The slow cooker's sealed environment locks in moisture, ensuring the steak stays juicy throughout the cooking process. Whether adding broth, herbs, or vegetables, the slow cooker will help infuse the flavors, making the dish incredibly savory and aromatic.

For the best results, it's important to sear the cube steak before placing it in the slow cooker. This step adds an extra layer of flavor and creates a beautiful crust on the steak. Additionally, layering the ingredients properly and avoiding opening the slow cooker lid during cooking helps maintain the heat and cook the steak evenly. A cooking time of 5-6 hours on low heat allows the meat to become perfectly tender, but you can adjust it depending on the desired texture. Slow-cooking cube steak will also enable you to prepare other meal components without much effort, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make a delicious slow cooker cube steak, here are the typical ingredients you'll need:

Cube Steak: The star of the dish, this affordable cut of beef is tenderized through slow cooking.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds richness and flavor to the dish, creating a creamy base for the gravy.
Beef Broth: Provides depth of flavor and helps keep the steak moist during the slow cooking process.
Onions: A key aromatic ingredient that enhances the dish's overall flavor.
Seasonings: Common seasonings include garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, which help infuse the steak with savory notes.

Variations:

For a dairy-free option, substitute cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free alternative or use coconut milk and mushroom broth.
To lower the sodium, opt for low-sodium beef broth and a reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup.
For added flavor, you can include fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary or even toss in mushrooms for extra texture and taste.

How to Prepare Cube Steak for Slow Cooking

Season the Cube Steak: Season both sides of the cube steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Add a pinch of paprika, onion powder, and dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Be sure to coat the steak evenly with the seasonings.

Optional Browning for Extra Flavor: While you can skip this step, browning the cube steak in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the flavor. Heat a small amount of oil or butter over medium-high heat in a skillet. Once hot, add the cube steak and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until browned. This caramelizes the meat, adding depth and richness to the gravy.

Layer in the Slow Cooker: Place the cube steak in the bottom of the slow cooker after browning. If you didn't brown the steak, you can layer it directly in the slow cooker. Add the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and additional vegetables (like onions) over the steak.

Prepare for Slow Cooking: Once everything is in the slow cooker, cover it with the lid and set it to cook on low for 5-6 hours. The slow cooking will break down the fibers, making the cube steak tender and juicy.

Slow Cooking Instructions for Cube Steak

Set the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned (and optionally browned) cube steak into the slow cooker. Add the other ingredients, such as cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, onions, and any additional vegetables or seasonings. Stir to combine, ensuring the steak is covered with the liquid and seasonings.

Cooking Time and Temperature: Set your slow cooker on low for 5-6 hours. Cooking on low heat allows the steak to break down slowly, resulting in a tender, flavorful dish. If you're in a rush, you can cook the steak in a high setting for 3-4 hours, but low cooking is ideal for the best results.

Best Practices to Avoid Overcooking: Slow-cooking cube steak requires careful timing to avoid overcooking, which could lead to dry or stringy meat. For tender results, ensure the meat is not exposed to heat for too long. Avoid opening the lid frequently, as this lets heat escape and can extend the cooking time.

Checking for Doneness: To check for doneness, use a fork to test the cube steak gently. It should shred easily, and the meat should be tender when pierced. If it doesn't shred easily, cook on low for 30 minutes to 1 hour. Ensure the meat reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F for safe consumption.

Adjusting Liquid Levels: If too much liquid evaporates during cooking, add more broth or water to maintain a gravy-like consistency.

How to Make Gravy for Cube Steak

Collecting the Juices: Once the cube steak is fully cooked and tender, remove it from the slow cooker and set it aside. The remaining juices, which include beef broth, mushroom soup, and seasonings, will form the base for your gravy.

Thickening the Gravy: To create a rich, velvety gravy, you must thicken the cooking liquid. There are two standard methods: Cornstarch Slurry: In a small bowl, mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Slowly whisk this mixture into the slow cooker juices, stirring constantly. Cook on high for 10-15 minutes, thickening the gravy.
Flour Roux: Melt two tablespoons of butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Add two tablespoons of flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in 1 cup of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker. Once the mixture thickens, pour it back into the slow cooker and stir until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
Adjusting the Flavor: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth. You can add a pinch of garlic or onion powder if you prefer more flavor.
Serve: Once the gravy has thickened, pour it over the cube steak and serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes.

What to Serve With Cube Steak

Cube steak with gravy is a hearty and satisfying dish that pairs well with various comforting side dishes. Here are some great options to complement the meal:

Mashed Potatoes: A classic choice, mashed potatoes soak up the rich gravy and provide a creamy contrast to the tender steak. You can also try garlic mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Rice: White or brown rice is a simple, neutral base that pairs wonderfully with savory gravy. For added flavor, try cilantro lime rice or buttery rice pilaf.
Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like carrots, green beans, or broccoli add a healthy balance to the meal. Their mild flavors enhance the richness of the steak and gravy.
Egg Noodles: Soft, chewy egg noodles are another excellent choice for soaking up the gravy. They're an easy-to-make, comforting side that complements the texture of the cube steak.
These side dishes not only round out the meal but also enhance the flavor and provide a variety of textures to enjoy.

Top Tips for Perfect Cube Steak

To ensure your cube steak comes out tender and flavorful, follow these expert tips:

Correct Cooking Time: Cube steak requires a long, slow cooking time to break down the tough fibers. Cook it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until it's fork-tender. Overcooking can dry out the steak, so stick to these recommended times.
Add Enough Liquid: Add enough liquid (broth, cream of mushroom soup, or water) to the slow cooker. This helps keep the steak moist and allows the flavors to develop. The liquid also prevents the steak from drying out.
Don't Lift the Lid: Each time you open the slow cooker's lid, heat escapes, extending cooking time and affecting the texture. Avoid lifting the lid during the cooking process unless necessary.
Sear the Steak: While optional, searing the cube steak before adding it to the slow cooker can enhance the flavor and help lock in the juices. This creates a richer, more savory taste.
Avoid Overcrowding: If you're cooking a large batch, be sure the steak pieces are spread evenly in the slow cooker. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and tougher meat.

Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe Variations

Mushroom Additions: Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for extra flavor. Mushrooms enhance the umami profile and pair perfectly with the savory beef. You can also mix different mushrooms (like cremini or portobello) for a more complex flavor.
Different Soups: While the cream of mushroom soup is a classic, you can experiment with other soups to change the flavor. Try cream of onion soup for a more pungent taste or cream of celery for a milder, subtle flavor. Both options will still provide the creamy consistency for the gravy.
Alternative Seasonings: Try different seasoning blends to adjust the flavor profile. Add a bit of thyme or rosemary for an herbal note or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth. If you prefer spicier dishes, incorporate red pepper flakes or chili powder.
Low-Sodium Options: Use low-sodium beef broth and a reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup for a healthier version. This helps cut down on the salt content without sacrificing flavor.
Dairy-Free Modifications: For a dairy-free variation, substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free alternative, like coconut milk or a plant-based cream soup. Use dairy-free butter if needed to sear the steak.

How to Store and Reheat Leftover Cube Steak

Storing Leftovers:

Once the cube steak has cooled to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you plan to keep them longer, freeze the meat for up to 3 months. Separate the gravy and steak into containers to maintain the best freezing texture.

Reheating:

Avoid using high heat to reheat, as it can dry out the meat. For the best results, gently reheat in the microwave on a low setting or in a covered skillet with a splash of beef broth or gravy. This method helps retain moisture and keep the steak tender. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a slow cooker on low for about 30 minutes, ensuring the gravy remains thick and the meat stays moist.

FAQ

Does the slow cooker make cube steak tender?

Yes, the slow cooker is excellent for making cube steak tender. The slow heat breaks down the connective tissues and fibers, resulting in a fork-tender steak. This method benefits stricter cuts like cube steak, which benefit from the long cooking time that helps retain moisture and infuses the meat with rich flavors.

Can you cook frozen cube steak in the slow cooker?

It is not recommended to cook frozen cube steak in the slow cooker. Cooking frozen meat can lead to uneven cooking and increased cooking times, which may result in undercooked or overcooked portions. To ensure proper cooking and safety, it's best to thaw the cube steak in the refrigerator before adding it to the slow cooker.

What's the best cut of meat for slow cooking?

Cube steak, round steak, and chuck are all significant cuts of beef for slow cooking. These cuts are typically more challenging and benefit from a slow cooker's low, slow heat, which breaks down the muscle fibers and makes them tender. Cube steak, in particular, is an affordable option that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked this way.

How do you thicken the gravy in a slow cooker?

To thicken the gravy in a slow cooker, mix cornstarch or flour with a bit of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker towards the end of the cooking process. This will help the gravy thicken up without any lumps. Let the mixture cook for another 20–30 minutes to ensure the gravy reaches the right consistency.