Looking for a hearty, family-friendly dinner that practically cooks itself? This Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe is here to save the day! Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays, this dish delivers tender, flavorful cube steak with minimal effort. Just set your slow cooker, and let it work its magic while you tackle your to-do list—or simply relax.
What makes this recipe a family favorite? It’s budget-friendly, packed with savory flavors, and versatile enough to pair with your go-to sides. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this easy crock pot recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to turn humble cube steak into a comfort food masterpiece that everyone will love.
Ready to create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple? Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Key Benefits of This Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe
If you’re wondering why this Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe deserves a spot in your weekly meal plan, let me break it down for you. This dish isn’t just delicious—it’s a game-changer for busy households. Here’s why:
- Effortless Cooking: Toss the ingredients into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it. No babysitting the stove or complicated steps—just pure convenience.
- Tender, Flavorful Meat: The slow cooking process transforms cube steak into melt-in-your-mouth perfection, infused with rich, savory flavors.
- Budget-Friendly: Cube steak is an affordable cut, and this recipe makes the most of it, turning it into a hearty, family-sized meal without breaking the bank.
- Versatile & Customizable: Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted veggies—it’s a blank canvas for your favorite sides.
- Meal Prep Hero: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers all week, or freeze portions for future dinners.
Whether you’re a busy parent, a cooking novice, or just someone who loves a good comfort food fix, this recipe is designed to make your life easier while delivering a meal that feels like a warm hug. Ready to see how simple it is? Let’s dive into the ingredients!
Ingredients for the Perfect Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this flavor-packed Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this family-friendly dish a success:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds cube steak: Look for well-trimmed cuts for the best results.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth and keeps the meat tender.
- 1 medium onion, sliced: Brings a sweet, savory balance to the dish.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: For that irresistible aroma and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: A secret weapon for umami richness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the steak (optional but recommended).
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water: For thickening the gravy (optional).
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can skip searing the cube steak, but taking this extra step adds a delicious caramelized crust that elevates the dish.
With these simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a tender, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Ready to cook? Let’s move on to the instructions!
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe
Let’s dive into the heart of this Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe! Follow these simple steps to create a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. I’ll guide you through each step, so you can feel confident in the kitchen—even if you’re a beginner.
1. Prep the Cube Steak (Optional but Recommended)
- Pat the cube steak dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Warm 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until it develops a golden-brown crust. This step adds a rich, caramelized flavor that takes the dish to the next level.
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can skip the searing step. The slow cooker will still make the meat tender and flavorful!
2. Layer the Ingredients
- Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of your crock pot. These will infuse the steak with incredible flavor as they cook.
- Arrange the seared (or raw) cube steak on top of the onions.
3. Add the Liquid and Seasonings
- Pour 1 cup of beef broth and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce over the steak. These liquids will keep the meat moist and add depth to the flavor.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried thyme evenly across the top for a subtle herby note.
4. Cook Low and Slow
- Secure the lid on your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The extended cooking time on low heat ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender and practically melts in your mouth.
5. Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
- Once the steak is cooked, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the crock pot liquid and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Shred or slice the cube steak, and spoon the rich gravy and onions over the top.
- Pair it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, for a complete meal.
Why This Works: The slow cooking process breaks down the cube steak’s fibers, making it tender and juicy, while the onions and garlic create a flavorful base. The optional gravy adds a luxurious touch that ties everything together.
Pro Tips and Variations for Your Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe
Now that you’ve mastered the basics of this Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe, let’s take it up a notch with some pro tips and creative variations. Whether you’re looking to tweak the flavors or adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs, these ideas will help you make this dish truly your own.
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cut: Look for cube steak that’s well-trimmed and evenly tenderized. This ensures the meat cooks evenly and stays tender.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re searing the steak, cook it in batches to avoid steaming instead of browning.
- Low and Slow is Key: Cooking on low heat for 6-8 hours yields the most tender results. If you’re short on time, high heat for 3-4 hours works, but low heat is worth the wait!
- Thicken the Gravy: For a richer sauce, use the cornstarch slurry method mentioned earlier. Alternatively, let the liquid reduce uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Prep Ahead: Chop your onions and garlic the night before to save time. You can even season the steak and store it in the fridge overnight.
Creative Variations
- Add Veggies: Toss in sliced mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Kick Up the Heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes or stir in a splash of hot sauce to give the dish a bold, spicy twist.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a creamy, indulgent gravy.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of Worcestershire sauce, and ensure your broth is gluten-free.
- Switch Up the Herbs: Swap thyme for rosemary or oregano to bring a fresh, aromatic twist to the dish.
Make It Your Own
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so don’t be afraid to experiment! Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or catering to specific dietary needs, these tips and variations ensure everyone at the table will be happy.
Serving Suggestions for the Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe
Now that your Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe is ready, it’s time to plate it up and make it a meal to remember! Here are some delicious and practical ideas for serving this hearty dish, along with tips to elevate your presentation and flavor pairings.
Perfect Pairings
- Classic Comfort: Serve the tender cube steak and rich gravy over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.
- Rice Lovers: Pair it with steamed white rice, brown rice, or even fluffy quinoa to soak up all that delicious gravy.
- Veggie Boost: Add a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy, colorful touch.
- Bread on the Side: Warm dinner rolls, garlic bread, or even a slice of crusty baguette are perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish for Flair: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
- Family Style: Serve the cube steak and gravy in a large, shallow bowl with sides arranged around it for a rustic, inviting look.
- Individual Portions: Plate each serving with a slice of steak, a scoop of mashed potatoes, and a drizzle of gravy for a restaurant-worthy presentation.
Make It a Feast
- Salad Starter: Begin the meal with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the steak.
- Dessert Finale: End on a sweet note with a simple dessert like apple pie, chocolate pudding, or vanilla ice cream.
This Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to mix and match these serving ideas to suit your taste and occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is sure to impress!
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cube steak crock pot recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 pounds cube steak: Look for well-trimmed cuts for the best results.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth and keeps the meat tender.
- 1 medium onion sliced: Brings a sweet, savory balance to the dish.
- 3 garlic cloves minced: For that irresistible aroma and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: A secret weapon for umami richness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the steak optional but recommended.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste for seasoning.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water: For thickening the gravy optional.
Pro Tip:
- If you’re short on time you can skip searing the cube steak, but taking this extra step adds a delicious caramelized crust that elevates the dish.
Instructions
Prep the Cube Steak (Optional but Recommended)
- Pat the cube steak dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
- Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Warm 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side until it develops a golden-brown crust. This step adds a rich, caramelized flavor that takes the dish to the next level.
- Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can skip the searing step. The slow cooker will still make the meat tender and flavorful!
Layer the Ingredients
- Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of your crock pot. These will infuse the steak with incredible flavor as they cook.
- Arrange the seared (or raw) cube steak on top of the onions.
Add the Liquid and Seasonings
- Pour 1 cup of beef broth and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce over the steak. These liquids will keep the meat moist and add depth to the flavor.
- Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried thyme evenly across the top for a subtle herby note.
Cook Low and Slow
- Secure the lid on your crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The extended cooking time on low heat ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender and practically melts in your mouth.
Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
- Once the steak is cooked, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the crock pot liquid and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Serve and Enjoy
- Shred or slice the cube steak, and spoon the rich gravy and onions over the top.
- Pair it with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, for a complete meal.
- Why This Works: The slow cooking process breaks down the cube steak’s fibers, making it tender and juicy, while the onions and garlic create a flavorful base. The optional gravy adds a luxurious touch that ties everything together.
Notes
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 480mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 42g
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love This Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe
There you have it—a Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat! This dish is the perfect solution for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that brings the whole family together.
With its tender, flavorful cube steak, rich gravy, and customizable sides, this recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, the slow cooker does most of the work, so you can focus on what matters most—spending time with loved ones or simply enjoying a stress-free cooking experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this recipe is designed to be foolproof and adaptable. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the pro tips and variations we’ve shared to make it your own. After all, cooking is all about creativity and having fun in the kitchen!
So, grab your crock pot, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
FAQs About the Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe
Got questions about this Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here are answers to some of the most common questions to help you nail this dish every time.
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While cube steak is ideal for its tenderness, you can substitute it with chuck roast, round steak, or even stew meat. Just remember that tougher cuts might need extra time in the slow cooker to reach that perfect, fall-apart tenderness.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! Cook the recipe as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to refresh the gravy.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Definitely! This recipe freezes beautifully. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
4. What size crock pot should I use?
A 4-6 quart slow cooker works best for this recipe. If your crock pot is larger, make sure to adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly to avoid drying out the dish.
5. Can I skip searing the cube steak?
You can! Searing adds extra flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. The slow cooker will still make the meat tender and delicious.
6. How do I make the gravy thicker?
For a thicker gravy, combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the crock pot during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking, and let it simmer until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
7. What sides go well with this dish?
This recipe pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or dinner rolls. For a lighter option, try a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli.
8. Can I add vegetables to the crock pot?
Absolutely! Toss in carrots, potatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers at the beginning of the cooking process for a complete one-pot meal.
If you have more questions, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help! This Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipe is all about simplicity and flavor, so don’t stress. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress.
Very delicious recipes, I recommend preparing them at home. Very good job.