Cube steak is a budget-friendly cut of beef that can be tough if not cooked properly. The good news? Cooking cube steak in a crock pot transforms it into a tender, juicy, and flavorful dish with minimal effort. If you’re wondering how to cook cube steak in a crock pot, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, plus share tips and ideas to make your meal a hit.
What Is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef, usually top sirloin or top round, that has been tenderized by pounding with a meat mallet. This process breaks down tough muscle fibers, but the meat can still be chewy if cooked quickly or improperly. Slow cooking is the best way to get it tender and delicious.
Why Use a Crock Pot for Cube Steak?
Slow cookers are perfect for tougher cuts like cube steak because they cook the meat low and slow, allowing connective tissues to break down and the meat to become fork-tender. Plus, crock pot meals are convenient-you can set it and forget it, coming home to a ready-to-eat dinner with rich, savory gravy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– Cube steak (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
– All-purpose flour
– Garlic salt and black pepper
– Vegetable oil (for browning)
– Onion (sliced)
– Beef bouillon or broth
– Onion soup mix (dry)
– Worcestershire sauce
– Water or broth (hot)
– Optional: Cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, au jus gravy mix, diced tomatoes
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Cube Steak in a Crock Pot
1. Prepare the Cube Steak
Start by seasoning your cube steak with salt, pepper, and garlic salt. Then dredge each piece in flour to create a light coating. This helps thicken the gravy later and adds a slight crust to the meat.
2. Brown the Meat
Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the cube steak on both sides for about 4-5 minutes per side. Browning seals in juices and adds flavor. Though optional, this step greatly enhances the final taste.
3. Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Place the browned cube steak in the crock pot. Add sliced onions on top, then sprinkle beef bouillon and dry onion soup mix over the meat. Pour in Worcestershire sauce and hot water or broth to create a flavorful cooking liquid. Some recipes also add cream of mushroom or chicken soup and canned French onion soup for extra richness.
4. Cook Low and Slow
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook, the more tender the meat becomes. Aim for the meat to be so tender it can be cut with a fork or even pulled apart.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your cube steak with the luscious gravy over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice. Add your favorite steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Cube Steak
– Don’t skip browning: It adds depth of flavor and a better texture.
– Use a mix of soups and broth: Combining cream soups with onion soup mix or au jus gravy mix creates a rich, savory sauce.
– Add vegetables: Carrots, onions, and bell peppers can be added to the crock pot for a one-pot meal.
– Thaw meat before cooking: For even cooking, thaw your cube steak in the refrigerator overnight.
– Longer is better: If you have time, cook on low for 8-9 hours for ultimate tenderness.
Variations to Try
– French Onion Style: Use canned French onion soup and au jus gravy mix for a tangy, savory flavor.
– Creamy Mushroom Gravy: Add cream of mushroom soup and fresh mushrooms.
– Tomato-Based: Add diced tomatoes and Italian herbs for a different twist.
– Spicy Kick: Add a bit of chili powder or hot sauce to the gravy for heat.
Why Cube Steak in a Crock Pot Is a Winner
Cooking cube steak in a crock pot is a great way to turn an inexpensive cut of meat into a comforting, hearty meal. It requires minimal hands-on time, and the slow cooking process guarantees tender, flavorful results every time. The rich gravy that develops is perfect for soaking up with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, making it a family favorite for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Cube steak in a crock pot is an easy, delicious way to enjoy tender beef with minimal effort. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a comforting meal that tastes like it took hours of work. Give it a try and savor every bite!