Tender and Juicy Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe

Table of Contents

Introduction

Cube steak, a versatile and affordable cut of beef, is perfect for slow cooking, making it a staple for busy home cooks looking to prepare a flavorful, tender meal with minimal effort. This cut of beef is typically made from top sirloin or round steak that has been tenderized through a mechanical process, resulting in the characteristic indentations. Its affordability and ability to absorb rich flavors during slow cooking make cube steak popular for hearty meals like stews, stir-fries, and crock pot dishes.

The beauty of cooking cube steak in a slow cooker lies in its tenderizing process. The slow and low heat allows the muscle fibers in the steak to break down gradually, transforming what could be a challenging piece of meat into a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth dish. The slow cooker also allows the flavors of the ingredients to marry over time, resulting in an intensely flavorful meal that requires very little attention. Whether you're looking for a comforting family dinner or a convenient weeknight meal, cube steak in the crock pot is a go-to solution that brings both ease and satisfaction to the dinner table.

This article will explore the steps, tips, and variations for preparing cube steak in the crock pot, showcasing how this humble cut of meat can become a delicious centerpiece for your meals. With simple preparation and minimal active cooking time, you can serve up a meal that's sure to be impressive without the hassle.

What Is Cube Steak?

Cube steak is a cut of beef, usually from the round or sirloin, that has been tenderized through a mechanical process known as "cubing." T"his meth"od involves pounding the meat with a machine that creates indentations, breaking down tough muscle fibers and making it more tender. Unlike cuts like ribeye or sirloin, which are naturally tender due to their marbling and location on the cow, cube steak has a unique texture with its pounded appearance. This process makes it perfect for slow cooking or braising, allowing the meat to absorb flavors and become incredibly tender.

Compared to cuts like ribeye or sirloin, prized for their juicy tenderness and marbling, cube steak is more affordable but requires longer cooking times to become tender. Its texture is less smooth, with visible indentations from the tenderization process. However, it becomes just as flavorful and satisfying when cooked properly, making it a great option for budget-conscious meals.

Why Cook Cube Steak in a Crock Pot?

Slow-cooking cube steak in a crock pot offers several significant benefits, making it an ideal method for this cut of meat. The slow cooker breaks down the tough fibers in cube steak, transforming it from a chewy piece of meat into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth meal. This is due to the long, low-temperature cooking process, which allows the collagen in the meat to break down gradually, resulting in a more tender texture.

The crock pot also excels at retaining moisture. Adding liquids such as broth or gravy prevents the meat from drying out as the steak cooks in its juices. This moisture retention ensures the cube steak remains juicy and flavorful throughout the cooking process. Additionally, slow cooking allows the meat to absorb the flavors of seasonings, herbs, and other ingredients, making the final dish more decadent and complex.

For the best results, cooking cube steak in a low setting for an extended period (usually 6-8 hours) is essential. This low-and-slow method ensures the meat becomes tender and flavorful without overcooking. A high-heat setting can dry the steak or make it tough, so patience is key when using a slow cooker. Avoid opening the lid frequently for the most tender meat, as this removes heat and moisture essential for slow cooking.

Ingredients You Need for Slow Cooker Cube Steak

For a delicious and easy slow cooker cube steak recipe, you'll need a few essential ingredients:

Cube Steak: This is the main protein, offering tenderized meat perfect for slow cooking.
Beef Broth: Provides moisture and richness, enhancing the flavor of the steak.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: Adds a creamy texture and deepens the flavor, making a rich gravy-like sauce.
Onion Soup Mix: A convenient way to season the dish with a savory blend of onion and herbs.

For those with specific dietary preferences, here are some variations:

Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth to reduce salt intake while maintaining a robust flavor.
Dairy-Free Options: Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a non-dairy alternative or a homemade dairy-free cream sauce.

You can also add optional flavor enhancers like garlic, fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme), and vegetables like carrots or potatoes for added nutrition and taste. These ingredients elevate the flavor and make for a more hearty, one-pot meal.

How to Prepare Cube Steak for the Crock Pot

Preparing cube steak for the crock pot involves a few simple but effective steps to ensure your dish turns out flavorful and tender.

Season the Steak: Begin by generously seasoning your cube steaks with salt, pepper, and other spices. Common additions include garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. If you like a bit of heat, cayenne pepper or chili powder work well too. You can also add a bit of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
Optional Browning: While it's optional, browning the steak before adding it to the slow cooker enhances the depth of flavor. To do this, heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each side of the cube steak for 2-3 minutes until it's nicely brit'sowned. This step adds a rich, caramelized flavor that infuses the gravy as the steak cooks. It's beneficial when using a lean cut, as the browning locks in juices and flavor.
Dry the Steak: Before adding your seasoned steak to the crock pot, gently pat it dry with paper towels. Excess moisture can cause the steak to steam rather than sear (if you choose to brown it), affecting both texture and flavor.

Once these steps are complete, your steak will go into the slow cooker, slowly becoming tender and flavorful.

Slow Cooking Instructions for Cube Steak

Cooking cube steak in a slow cooker is simple and requires minimal preparation, making it perfect for busy days. Here's a step-by-step guide to ensure your steak turns out tender and flavorful:

Layering the Steak and Ingredients: Place your seasoned cube steak at the bottom of the crock pot. Lose the seared pieces in the crock pot if you brown the steak. Browning the steak adds extra flavor, but it's optional. On top of the meat, layer any aromatics such as onions or garlic, followed by the liquid ingredients—usually beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and a seasoning packet like onion soup mix. If you're adding vegetables, layer them next. Carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms are common choices.

Adding Liquid: Ensure enough lithere'squid in the crock pot to help tenderize the meat and create a rich gravy. The cream of mushroom soup is a base for the gravy, while the beef broth provides moisture. You can adjust the amount based on your desired gravy thickness, but 1-2 cups of broth should suffice.

Cooking Time: Cover the crock pot and set it to cook. For best results, cook the steak on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it on low, the more tender the meat will be, as the slow cooking process allows the connective tissues in the cube steak to break down, creating a fork-tender texture. Cooking on high will also yield tender results, but the meat won't be as falwon'tl-apart tender as with the low setting.

Checking for Doneness: To check if the cube steak is done, use a fork to test the tenderness. The steak should shred easily when it's ready. Avoid lifting the lid too often during cooking, as this can cause heat to escape and extend the cooking time. If you're concerned about overcooking, a meat thermometer can help. Cube steak should reach an internal temperature of around 145°F (63°C), but because slow cooking breaks down the fibers, the texture is often the best indicator of doneness.

Avoid Overcooking: While cube steak is forgiving, cooking it too long can cause it to dry out, especially if there's not enough liquid. If you need more clarification, check the steak 30 minutes before the recommended cooking time ends to ensure it has cooked correctly.

Slow-cooking cube steak allows it to absorb all the flavors of the broth and seasonings, creating a rich, savory dish perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes or rice.

How to Make Gravy in the Crock Pot

Making gravy from the juices in your crock pot is easy and ensures a flavorful, rich sauce that complements your cube steak perfectly. Follow these simple steps to create a smooth, lump-free gravy:

Using the Juices: After the cube steak has cooked, you'll have a flyou'llavorful mixture of broth, beef drippings, and any seasoning or soup base. Start by carefully removing the cooked steak and vegetables from the crock pot and set them aside. Then, stir the remaining liquid to distribute all the flavors evenly.
Thickening the Gravy: Use cornstarch or a flour slurry to thicken the gravy. Both methods are effective but require different techniques: Cornstarch Slurry: Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Slowly whisk this mixture into the simmering juices in the crock pot. Allow it to cook for 5-10 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Flour Slurry: If you prefer flour, mix two tablespoons of flour with 1/4 cup of cold water to create a smooth paste. Add this mixture to the crock pot, whisking constantly. Let the gravy cook for 5-10 minutes to allow the flour to fully incorporate and thicken the sauce.
Tips for Smooth Gravy: Always add the thickening agent gradually, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Use a whisk to break up clumps for a glossy, smooth finish. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding salt, pepper, or a bit of Worcestershire sauce if needed.

With these techniques, you'll achieve a rich, velvety gravy perfect for serving over your cube steak and side dishes.

What to Serve with Cube Steak

With its rich gravy and tender texture, Cube steak pairs wonderfully with side dishes that balance its hearty flavors. Here are some top side dish recommendations to enhance your meal:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing. The smooth texture complements the rich gravy, making every bite a comforting experience.
Rice: White or brown rice serves as a neutral base that absorbs the savory gravy, making it an excellent choice to accompany the dish.
Egg Noodles: Soft, buttery egg noodles pair well with cube steak and its sauce, providing a comforting and filling option.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, potatoes, or green beans add color and a subtle sweetness, contrasting with savory steak and gravy.

To make your meal visually appealing, try arranging the steak on a plate with a serving of potatoes or rice in the center, surrounded by roasted vegetables. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color. This presentation not only looks beautiful but also highlights the textures and flavors of each dish.

Top Tips for Perfect Cube Steak

To achieve the perfect cube steak in the crock pot, follow these key tips:

Use Enough Liquid: Ensure enough light in the crock pot to keep the steak moist and tender. Broth, cream of mushroom soup, or even wine can infuse flavor while preventing the meat from drying out.
Low and Slow Cooking: Slow cooking at a low temperature (6-8 hours on low) is essential for breaking down the tough fibers in the cube steak, resulting in a tender texture. Avoid cooking at high temperatures, as it can lead to dryness.
Seasoning: Season your cube steak generously with salt, pepper, and any preferred herbs to enhance its flavor. Onions, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce are great additions.
Layering: Place the steak on the bottom of the crock pot to ensure it cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors from the liquid above.
Resting After Cooking: Let the meat rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices before serving.
Thickening Gravy: Always thicken your gravy using cornstarch or a flour slurry to achieve a smooth, rich texture. Avoid skipping this step for a whole, satisfying dish.

These tips help avoid common mistakes like overcooking or missing out on a thick, flavorful gravy.

Slow Cooker Cube Steak Variations

There are many ways to customize your slow cooker cube steak recipe, enhancing flavor and texture to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Flavor Variations:

Mushrooms: Adding fresh mushrooms or a can of mushroom pieces can give the dish an earthy, savory depth. The mushrooms absorb the juices and flavor from the steak, enhancing the overall richness.
Soup Base: While cream of mushroom soup is a classic, you can experiment with other soups like cream of onion, celery, or tomato-based soup for a slightly tangier flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Incorporating rosemary, thyme, or bay leaves can infuse the steak with additional fragrance and flavor. A sprig of fresh thyme can elevate the dish's aroma.

Didish'setary Modifications:

Low-Sodium: To reduce salt intake, opt for low-sodium broth and soups. You can also control the seasoning to your taste, adjusting salt levels based on your preferences.
Gluten-Free: Swap regular flour for a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch or a gluten-free blend when making the gravy.
Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free soup alternative (e.g., a coconut milk-based soup) and substitute butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version.

Creative Additions:

Bell Peppers: Adding sliced bell peppers introduces sweetness and color, creating a hearty, colorful dish.
Wine: A splash of red wine adds acidity and complexity, making the gravy even more flavorful.
Potatoes: To make this a complete one-pot meal, add sliced or small baby potatoes, which absorb the savory juices while cooking.

FAQ

Does slow cooking make cube steak tender?

Slow cooking is one of the best methods to tenderize cube steak. The long cooking time at a low temperature allows the connective tissues and fibers in the meat to break down, resulting in a fork-tender texture. The slow cooker helps to retain moisture, making the steak juicy while infusing it with rich flavors from the broth, seasonings, and other ingredients. Ideally, it's stricter cuts like cube steak, which benefit from this process.

Can you cook frozen cube steak in the crock pot?

It is not recommended to cook frozen cube steak in the crock pot. Cooking frozen meat in a slow cooker can increase the overall cooking time and may lead to uneven cooking. The slow cooking process may not quickly bring the steak to a safe temperature, increasing the risk of bacterial growth. Thaw the cube steak in the refrigerator before adding it to the crock pot for best results.

How do you thicken gravy in a slow cooker?

To thicken gravy in a slow cooker, use a slurry of cornstarch and water or flour and water. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with equal water, then stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help achieve a smooth and lump-free gravy. Alternatively, you can remove some cooking liquid, reduce it in a pan on the stovetop, and return it to the crock pot to concentrate the flavors.

Can this recipe be adapted for an Instant Pot?

Yes, this recipe can be adapted for an Instant Pot. You can cook cube steak in the Instant Pot using the "Pressure C"ook" or "Slow "Cook" setting. "For a quicker cooking time, pressure cook the steak on high for 20-25 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally. Use the "Slow Cook" function "for 4-5 hours, similar to a traditional crock pot for slow cooking. Just ensure the steak is seasoned correctly and layered before cooking.

How do you avoid overcooking the steak?

To avoid overcooking cube steak in the slow cooker, following the recommended cooking times: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high is essential. The slow cooker maintains a consistent temperature, so you don't need to check the steak too often. However, avoid opening the lid frequently, which can cause temperature fluctuations and extend the cooking time. Additionally, checking for doneness in the last 30 minutes will help ensure the steak reaches the desired tenderness without becoming dry.