slow cooker cube steak recipe

Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe: Tender, Flavorful, and Easy to Make

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As the smell of slow cooker cube steak recipe fills your home, your stomach starts to rumble. The idea of a warm, comforting meal that’s almost like butter is exciting. This slow cooker cube steak recipe makes it easy to enjoy a tasty, restaurant-style dish without spending hours cooking.

What is slow cooker cube steak recipe?

slow cooker cube steak recipe is a versatile and affordable cut of meat great for slow cooking. It comes from the shoulder or top round of the cow. These areas are very active, making the meat tough. To make it tender, the meat is mechanically tenderized, leaving behind the characteristic cube-like indentations.

Understanding the Cut of Meat

slow cooker cube steak recipe usually comes from the top round or top sirloin of the cow. This tough, lean cut is made tender through a mechanical process. A meat mallet or machine pounds the meat, making it softer and more tender. The cube-like impressions are what make this cut unique.

Nutritional Benefits of slow cooker cube steak recipe

slow cooker cube steak recipe is lean, high in protein, and a good source of iron. It’s a budget-friendly option compared to more expensive cuts of beef. With its tender texture and robust flavor, cube steak is versatile and easy to prepare. It’s a favorite among busy home cooks.

NutrientAmount per Serving
Calories490
Total Fat28g
Saturated Fat10g
Unsaturated Fat15g
Cholesterol117mg
Sodium1562mg
Carbohydrates19g
Fiber1g
Sugar9g
Protein39g

“slow cooker cube steak recipe is an economical cut of beef that is often on sale, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to save on food costs.”

Why Use a slow cooker cube steak recipe?

Looking to make a tender, flavorful cube steak with little effort? A slow cooker cube steak recipe is your best choice. It breaks down the tough fibers in the steak, making it soft and delicious. Plus, it’s easy to use, saving you time and energy in the kitchen.

Benefits of Slow Cooking

  • Tenderizes tough cuts of meat like cube steak
  • Allows flavors to meld and develop over time
  • Requires minimal hands-on time and preparation
  • Produces juicy, fall-apart tender results

Convenience and Time-Saving

Slow cookers are a big help when you’re short on time. This crockpot cube steak recipe is quick to prepare, needing just 30 minutes. Then, the slow cooker cooks it for 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. This lets you relax while your meal cooks.

Prep TimeCooking Time (Low)Cooking Time (High)
30 minutes6-8 hours4-5 hours

“The slow cooking process allows the tough fibers in the cube steak to break down over several hours, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.”

Ingredients You’ll Need

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe

To make this tasty slow cooker cube steak, you’ll need a few key items. You’ll need 2 pounds of cube steak, a common choice in many homes. A packet of Lipton Onion Soup mix adds a savory flavor.

For the gravy, you’ll use 1 packet of brown gravy mix and 2 cans of cream of mushroom soup. A bit of water is added to mix it all together.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

While the basic ingredients are delicious, you can add extras for more flavor. Sliced onions or 1 tablespoon of onion powder can make the dish smell and taste better. Some folks like adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor.

If you want thicker gravy, a little cornstarch can help. Mix it with water first to avoid clumps. This makes the gravy smooth and velvety.

IngredientAmount
Cube Steak2 pounds
Lipton Onion Soup Mix1 packet
Onion (sliced or powder)1 medium/1 tbsp
Brown Gravy Mix1 packet
Cream of Mushroom Soup2 cans
WaterAs needed
Cornstarch (optional)As needed

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious slow cooker cube steak. It’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Preparing the Cube Steak

Before you can enjoy the tender and flavorful slow-cooked cube steak, it’s essential to prepare the meat properly. While cube steak comes pre-tenderized, a few extra steps can help enhance the texture and taste even further.

How to Tenderize Cube Steak

Though cube steak is already pre-tenderized, you can use a meat mallet to pound the steak lightly just before cooking. This additional tenderizing helps break down the muscle fibers. It results in a more tender and juicy final dish.

Seasoning Tips for Enhanced Taste

To give your slow-cooked cube steak an extra flavor boost, season the meat generously with a homemade herb and garlic seasoning blend. A sprinkle of paprika also adds a touch of warmth and color. Be sure to season both sides of the cube steak for maximum flavor penetration.

Before cooking, make sure the cube steak is completely thawed to ensure food safety and even cooking. Once the steak is seasoned, place it in the slow cooker. Allow the gravy mixture to coat the meat, further infusing it with delicious flavors.

tenderizing cube steak

“The secret to tender, juicy cube steak is in the preparation. A quick tenderizing and flavorful seasoning make all the difference.”

Cooking Instructions

Get ready to make a tender, flavorful cube steak dish with your slow cooker. Follow these easy steps for a hassle-free meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Step-by-Step slow cooker cube steak recipe Directions

  1. Place the slow cooker cube steak recipe in the slow cooker.
  2. In a bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk to mix the seasonings.
  3. Dredge the cube steaks in the seasoned flour, ensuring they are evenly coated on both sides.
  4. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the floured cube steaks for about 5 minutes per side until browned.
  5. Transfer the seared cube steaks to the slow cooker.
  6. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
  7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the cube steak is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  8. About an hour before the cooking time is up, make a slurry by mixing cornstarch with a little water. Slowly stir the slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.

Cooking Time and Temperature

For the best results, cook the cube steak in the slow cooker on the low setting. This makes the meat tender and the flavors perfect. Cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. A digital slow cooker with an automatic keep-warm setting is ideal for this recipe, ensuring your meal stays warm and ready to serve.

By following these simple slow cooker instructions, you’ll have a delicious, hassle-free cube steak dish. It’s sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy your tender, flavorful crockpot steak with your favorite side dishes for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Pairing your slow-cooked cube steak with the right sides can make the meal even better. Look for sides that soak up the rich gravy from the cube steak. This creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Best Sides to Serve with Cube Steak

  • Mashed Potatoes: Their creamy texture and ability to soak up gravy make mashed potatoes a top choice.
  • Rice Pilaf: A fluffy, seasoned rice pilaf complements the cube steak’s flavors well.
  • Egg Noodles: Tender, buttery egg noodles are ideal for the cube steak and its savory gravy.

Quick and Easy Side Options

  1. Canned Green Beans: A budget-friendly, quick side, simply heat up a can of green beans.
  2. Roasted Carrots: Toss baby carrots with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast for a tasty side.
  3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb choice, cauliflower rice takes on the cube steak’s flavors without the guilt.

Choosing the right side dishes is key to enjoying your cube steak. Try different options to find your family’s favorite. This way, you can make every meal a special occasion.

cube steak side dishes

Storing Leftovers

When you have leftover slow-cooker cube steak, it’s important to store it right. This keeps its flavor and texture great. You can store and reheat it easily for later enjoyment.

Proper Storage Techniques

To store leftover cube steak, put it in an airtight container. Then, refrigerate it for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze it individually with extra gravy for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips for Freshness

When reheating cube steak, do it gently. This keeps it tender. The best way is to reheat it in the microwave on low or on the stovetop on low heat.

If frozen, thaw the leftovers in the fridge first. This helps keep the meat moist and tender.

Follow these tips for storing leftover cube steak and reheating cube steak. You’ll enjoy the flavors of your slow-cooker cube steak even after the first meal. Enjoy your leftover steak storage and reheating!

Variations of Cube Steak Recipes

The classic slow-cooked cube steak recipe is a comfort food favorite. But, you can change up the flavors and ingredients to suit your taste. Try these alternative cube steak variations and dietary substitutions for interesting and satisfying meals.

Different Sauces and Flavors to Try

For a creamy twist, swap the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup. This adds a savory, umami-rich flavor to your cube steak. Top it with shredded mozzarella or grated parmesan cheese for a cheesy finish.

To reduce sodium, use low-sodium or reduced-sodium versions of the condensed soup and beef broth. This change makes the dish healthier without losing flavor.

Substitutions for Dietary Preferences

  • Swap the cube steak for chuck roast or pork chops, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
  • Add nutrient-dense vegetables like zucchini or spinach to the slow cooker for extra vitamins and minerals.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and thickening agents.
  • Explore plant-based protein alternatives, such as portobello mushrooms or lentils, for a vegetarian or vegan-friendly cube steak dish.

Cube steak recipes are versatile. Feel free to experiment with different sauces, seasonings, and substitutions. The slow cooker ensures tender, flavorful results every time.

Essential Slow Cooker Tips

Learning to use a slow cooker can really improve your cooking skills. It makes preparing meals much easier. Whether you’re already good at slow cooking or just starting, here are some key tips to remember.

How to Avoid Common Mistakes

One big mistake is opening the slow cooker lid too often. Try not to check on it too much, as it can lower the temperature and make cooking take longer. Also, make sure your slow cooker is big enough for all your ingredients. If it’s too full, food won’t cook evenly and could be unsafe.

Always thaw meat before putting it in the slow cooker. Putting frozen meat in can be dangerous because it might not get hot enough to kill bacteria.

Maintenance and Care for Your Slow Cooker

  • After each use, clean the slow cooker insert well. This keeps it working well and prevents bad tastes or smells from coming back.
  • Think about using a slow cooker liner for easier cleaning. These liners are easy to use and make cleaning up a lot simpler.
  • Check the cord and heating element often to make sure they’re working right. If they’re damaged, it’s time to get a new slow cooker.
  • Keep your slow cooker in a dry, cool spot when you’re not using it. This helps keep it clean and prevents dust and dirt from getting in.

By following these tips, you can enjoy tasty meals without any hassle. And you’ll also make sure your slow cooker lasts a long time.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Meal

This slow cooker cube steak recipe is a tasty and easy way to make a meal. It combines simple ingredients with the help of a slow cooker. This makes a dish that your family will love.

The slow cooking method makes the cube steak tender. The savory gravy adds lots of flavor to the meat.

Recap of the Recipe Steps

To start, season the cube steak with spices and sear it in a pan. This helps keep the juices in. Then, put the meat in the slow cooker.

Add creamy soup, onion gravy mix, Worcestershire sauce, and more seasonings. Let it simmer for 6-8 hours on low. This lets the flavors mix and the meat get very tender.

Encouragement to Experiment with the Recipe

Don’t be shy to try new things with this easy cube steak recipe. Use different meats like chuck roast or pork chops. See how they turn out in the slow cooker.

Try adding herbs, garlic, or cheese to make it your own. This recipe is very flexible. It’s a great way to make a delicious meal that fits your taste.

FAQ

What is cube steak and how is it different from other cuts of beef?

Cube steak comes from the cow’s shoulder. It’s tougher because of constant use. A meat tenderizer makes tiny holes to make it tender.It’s lean, high in protein, and rich in iron. It’s also affordable, often on sale at places like Walmart.

Why is a slow cooker the best way to cook cube steak?

Slow cooking makes cube steak tender and flavorful. It’s easy to use and saves time. Cooking on low for 6-8 hours melds flavors and tenderizes the meat.Slow cookers are great for tough cuts like cube steak. They break down muscle fibers well.

What ingredients are needed for the slow cooker cube steak recipe?

You’ll need cube steak, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, au jus gravy mix, and water. You can also add sliced onions, mushrooms, and cornstarch for thickening. There are low-sodium options for those watching salt.

How do I prepare the cube steak before slow cooking?

Cube steak is already tenderized. You can tenderize it more with a meat mallet if you want. Season it with a homemade herb and garlic mix and paprika for flavor.Make sure the steak is thawed before cooking for safety.

What is the best way to serve slow cooker cube steak?

Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or egg noodles to soak up the gravy. French green beans, corn on the cob, or roasted carrots are great sides. For a budget meal, pair it with boxed rice pilaf and canned green beans. Cauliflower rice is a low-carb option.

How do I store and reheat leftover cube steak?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove to prevent overcooking. Thaw frozen leftovers before reheating.

Can I make variations to the slow cooker cube steak recipe?

Yes, try cream of mushroom soup for a different taste. Add shredded mozzarella or grated parmesan for a cheesy twist. Use low-sodium options for a healthier version. You can also use chuck roast or pork chops, adjusting cooking times.

What are some essential tips for using a slow cooker?

Don’t lift the lid during cooking to keep the temperature steady. Use a big enough slow cooker to space the steaks evenly. Always thaw meat before cooking for safety. Clean the insert well after each use. A slow cooker liner makes cleanup easier.

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