When the cold winter wind blows, nothing warms the heart like a slow-cooked meal. Crock Pot Cube Steak is my go-to for comfort. It turns tough beef into tender, juicy bites, filling the house with savory smells.
My mom made this dish on cold autumn nights when I was a kid. The first bite was always a highlight. Now, as a busy parent, this recipe is a lifesaver. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love the recipe for cube steak in crock pot, slow cooker cube steak, or crockpot cubed steak. It’s a tender cube steak recipe that will fill your home with delicious smells.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Crock Pot Cube Steak is a budget-friendly, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare
- The slow cooking process ensures the cube steak is fork-tender and flavorful
- Just a few simple ingredients like onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth create a delicious gravy
- This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty, home-cooked meal without the hassle
- The tender cube steak recipe is a family-favorite that brings back nostalgic memories of cozy winter evenings
What is Cube Steak and How to Choose the Best Cuts
Cube steak is a budget-friendly beef cut great for simple meals. It’s made tender by pounding with a meat mallet, creating a “cube” pattern. This makes it perfect for affordable, tasty dinners.
Understanding Cube Steak
Cube steak comes from the top sirloin or top round, which are tougher cuts. Tenderizing turns these into tender, flavorful meat. The distinctive “cube” pattern on the meat shows it’s been tenderized.
Selecting the Right Cut
Choose cube steak that’s even in thickness and has a clear cubing pattern. Steer clear of uneven cuts, as they can be tough. Opt for steak that’s 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick for the best results.
Tips for Cooking with Cube Steak
- Cook cube steak low and slow for tenderness. Slow cooker or Crock Pot recipes work well, as they cook gently.
- Don’t overcook, as it can make the steak tough. Use a meat thermometer to check for medium doneness at 160°F.
- Pound the steak with a meat mallet before cooking. This breaks down the fibers further.
Cube steak is a cost-effective choice for tasty, family-friendly meals. Knowing how to pick the right cuts and cook them right makes for delicious easy cube steak dinner recipes.
Essential Ingredients for Recipe for Cube Steak in Crock Pot
Preparing a tasty cube steak dish starts with the right ingredients. This recipe is simple yet flavorful, making it perfect for families. Let’s explore what you need for a successful cube steak meal prep.
Fresh Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of cube steak as the main protein
- 1 package of onion soup mix (1 ounce)
- 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 2 tablespoons of cornstarch for thickening the gravy
Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor
For even more flavor, consider these extra ingredients:
- Diced onions for extra savory notes
- Minced garlic for a aromatic kick
- Your preferred seasoning blends to suit your family’s tastes
- Cream of celery soup as an alternative to cream of mushroom
Choosing these ingredients will help you make a delicious cube steak meal prep. Your whole family will love it.
Preparing Your Cube Steak for the Crock Pot
Getting your cube steak ready for the crock pot is the first step to a delicious meal. Start by seasoning the cube steaks with salt and pepper. This step is essential for the rich flavors that will develop later. For even more taste, marinate the steak for a few hours before cooking.
Marinating Your Meat
Marinating your cube steak is optional but highly recommended. It tenderizes the meat and adds new flavors. Here are some marinade ideas:
- Red wine vinegar and herbs
- Soy sauce, garlic, and ginger
- Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and brown sugar
Let the cube steak soak in the marinade for 2-4 hours, or even overnight. This ensures the best flavor.
Seasoning Tips for Maximum Flavor
Seasoning your cube steak further can make it even tastier. Coat it in seasoned flour before browning it. This step creates a crust that keeps the juices in and adds flavor. Try different herbs and spices to find the perfect taste for your tender cube steak recipe or easy cube steak dinner.
The secret to a great cube steak dish is in the preparation. With a bit of time and effort, you can turn this affordable cut into a delicious meal. Your family will love it so much, they’ll ask for seconds.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Cube Steak
Preparing slow cooker cube steak or crockpot cubed steak is simple. Follow these steps to make a meal your family will love.
Browning the Steak (Optional)
Browning your cube steak before cooking adds flavor. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
Layering Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Begin by placing the cube steak at the bottom of your slow cooker. Next, add a packet of onion soup mix and a can of cream of mushroom soup. Use enough beef broth to almost cover the meat. You can also add chopped onions, garlic, or other aromatics for extra flavor.
Setting Your Crock Pot
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For a thicker gravy, mix a cornstarch slurry (1-2 tablespoons cornstarch with an equal amount of water) and stir it in during the last hour.
With a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious crockpot cube steak meal. The slow cooking makes the steak tender and flavorful.
Cooking Times and Temperature Settings
To make the perfect tender cube steak in your crock pot, focus on the cooking time and temperature. For the best results, cook your cube steak on low heat for 6-8 hours.
Low vs. High Heat Cooking
Cooking cube steak on high heat for 3-4 hours can work, but it might not be as tender. The low and slow method breaks down the meat’s connective tissues. This makes the steak fork-tender. But, don’t cook it for more than 8 hours, or it will get too soft.
Recommended Cooking Times for Tender Steak
- Low heat (6-8 hours): For the most tender and flavorful cube steak
- High heat (3-4 hours): Resulting in slightly less tender, but delicious, meat
- Avoid cooking for more than 8 hours to prevent the meat from becoming too soft
For the best results, use a digital crock pot with an automatic keep-warm setting. This keeps your cube steak at the perfect temperature until you’re ready to eat it.
“Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to cooking cube steak in the crock pot. The low heat setting is the key to achieving melt-in-your-mouth perfection.”
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Tenderness |
|---|---|---|
| Low Heat | 6-8 hours | Most Tender |
| High Heat | 3-4 hours | Slightly Less Tender |
Ways to Customize Your Cube Steak Dish
Make your cube steak crockpot meals special by adding your own touches. Adding vegetables can make them healthier. Try putting in potatoes, carrots, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers for more taste and nutrients. Make sure the veggies are all about the same size so they cook well with the steak.
Feel free to try out different sauces and gravies too. Swap the usual onion soup mix for cream of celery or French onion soup for something new. Use low-sodium broths and soups to cut down on salt, and season to taste at the end. There are countless ways to make your cube steak recipes your own!
Adding Vegetables for Nutrients
- Potatoes
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Bell peppers
Experimenting with Different Sauces
- Cream of celery soup
- French onion soup
- Low-sodium broths and soups
One of the best things about cube steak crockpot meals is how flexible they are. By adding veggies and trying out different sauces, you can make many tasty and healthy cube steak dishes for your family.
Serving Suggestions for Your Cube Steak
Once your cube steak is ready, it’s time to think about what to serve with it. This dish goes well with many sides, making it easy to create a great meal. You can choose sides that soak up the gravy or keep things light. We have some top picks for you.
What to Serve as Sides
- Creamy mashed potatoes: The classic pairing – the rich gravy complements the smooth, comforting texture of mashed potatoes perfectly.
- Buttery egg noodles: A simple yet tasty option, egg noodles provide a bed for the cube steak and gravy to shine.
- Fluffy white rice: Another crowd-pleasing side that soaks up the flavorful sauce, making every bite a delight.
- Cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower: For a low-carb twist, these veggie-based options keep the meal light and healthy.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans: Adding fresh, vibrant vegetables provides a nutritional boost and a nice contrast to the tender cube steak.
- Crisp green salad: A refreshing, crunchy salad balances out the richness of the dish.
Pairing with Different Sauces
The cube steak’s savory gravy is the star, but you can also try other sauces. Think creamy mushroom sauce, tangy balsamic glaze, or zesty Dijon-based sauce. Serve these sauces on the side or drizzle them over the steak for more flavor.
Choosing the right sides and sauces is key to a balanced meal. With these ideas, you can enjoy a comforting and easy cube steak dinner any night.
Storing Leftovers and Reheating Tips
After enjoying your crockpot cube steak, you might have leftovers. It’s important to store and reheat them right. This keeps your meal as tasty and tender as the first time.
Proper Storage Techniques
Put leftover cube steak and gravy in an airtight container. Refrigerate for 3-4 days to keep it moist. For longer storage, freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Best Methods for Reheating
To reheat your cube steak meal prep, warm it gently. The stovetop over low heat is best, adding broth or gravy to stay moist. You can also use the microwave, but stir often to heat evenly. Don’t overheat, as it can dry out the meat.
Follow these tips to enjoy your family-friendly cube steak recipes for days. Leftovers can be turned into tasty open-faced sandwiches or added to other meals for a quick fix.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cube Steak
Many people think cube steak is always tough. But, it doesn’t have to be. The right way to cook it makes it tender and tasty. Cooking it low and slow is key. This method breaks down the tough parts.
Tips for Ensuring Tender Meat
To get tender cube steak, follow these tips:
1. Brown the meat first. This seals in the flavor and juices.
2. Use a slow cooker or Crock-Pot. Cook on low for 8-12 hours. This makes the meat tender.
3. If you’re watching sodium, use low-sodium ingredients. Adjust the seasoning at the end.
4. Add a cornstarch slurry to the liquid for a thick, tasty gravy.
By following these steps, you’ll enjoy tender and flavorful cube steak. It works for crock pot recipes or new dishes.