slow cooker cube steak recipe

Delicious Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe Made Easy

Bykernelrecipes.com
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As autumn arrives, nothing beats the smell of a warm, homemade meal from the slow cooker. I remember my mom making a tasty cube steak dish, filling our kitchen with delicious smells. It was a time when our family would come together, and those moments are still cherished.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make tough cube steak tender and flavorful with your slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners looking for easy, affordable meals. It’s a dish that will become a favorite in your household, offering rich flavors without breaking the bank.

Understanding Cube Steak: What It Is and Why It’s Perfect for Slow Cooking

Cube steak, also known as Swiss steak or minute steak, is a thin, budget-friendly cut of beef. It’s perfect for slow cooking. This versatile cut comes from the cow’s shoulder, typically the top round or top sirloin. It has been mechanically tenderized to create a unique, textured surface.

The Anatomy of Cube Steak

The tenderizing process creates small indentations or “cubes” in the meat. This helps to break down the tough muscle fibers. This makes cube steak an ideal choice for slow cooking methods like braising or stewing.

Benefits of Slow Cooking This Cut

Slow cooking is the secret to unlocking the full potential of easy cube steak crock pot dishes. The long, low-heat cooking time allows the connective tissues to gradually break down. This results in a tender cube steak recipe that’s melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Why Tenderizing Matters

The tenderizing process is crucial for cube steak. It helps to improve the texture and allow the flavors to penetrate the meat during cooking. Without this step, cube steak can be tough and chewy, making it less than ideal for slow cooking. However, with the right preparation and cooking method, you can transform this affordable cut into a tender, flavorful masterpiece.

Cube steak

Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe

To make a tasty slow cooker cube steak, you need a few key ingredients. You’ll need cube steak, Lipton Onion Soup mix, sliced onions, brown gravy mix, and cream of mushroom soup. For a healthier option, choose low-sodium soups and gravy mix.

Want a different taste? Try using beef consommé or beef broth instead of French onion soup mix. You can also swap cream of chicken soup for the mushroom version. This makes the beef recipe perfect for your taste.

IngredientQuantity
Cube Steak1.5 lbs
Lipton Onion Soup Mix1 package
Sliced Onions1 onion
Brown Gravy Mix1 package
Cream of Mushroom Soup1 can

With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a tasty and budget-friendly cube steak dish. Your whole family will love it.

Slow Cooker Cube Steak Ingredients

Kitchen Equipment and Preparation Tips

To make sure your slow cooker cube steak recipe is perfect, you need the right tools and to prepare your ingredients well. Let’s get into the details:

Slow Cooker Size Requirements

For this make-ahead beef dinner, a 6-quart slow cooker is best. It gives enough space for the cube steaks, veggies, and gravy to cook well without being too crowded.

Pre-cooking Preparation Steps

  • Thaw the cube steaks completely before adding them to the slow cooker. This is crucial for food safety and ensures even cooking.
  • Dice the onion and slice the mushrooms (if using) ahead of time for a stress-free assembly process.
  • Combine the liquid ingredients, such as beef broth, and seasonings in a separate bowl before pouring them into the slow cooker. This helps the flavors meld together more effectively.

For bigger batches of this comforting beef dish, make sure your slow cooker is big enough. You might even want to double the recipe to feed a crowd.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be ready for a delicious and easy slow cooker cube steak meal. Enjoy the convenience of this make-ahead meal that will warm your soul on a chilly day.

Step-by-Step Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe

Make a tasty and tender cube steak in your slow cooker with this simple recipe. The secret to tender cube steak is slow cooking. It makes the meat soft and delicious.

  1. Place the cube steaks in the slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer.
  2. Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the cube steaks.
  3. Layer the sliced onions on top of the cube steaks.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown gravy mix and cream of mushroom soup until well combined.
  5. Pour the gravy mixture over the cube steaks and onions, ensuring everything is well coated.
  6. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the cube steaks are tender and the gravy has thickened.

To make the gravy thicker, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker about an hour before it’s done. Turn the slow cooker to high and cook for an extra 30 minutes. This lets the gravy thicken up.

Serve the tender cube steak with your favorite sides. Try mashed potatoes, egg noodles, steamed or roasted veggies, or a fresh green salad. This easy cube steak crock pot recipe is a comforting and tasty meal.

Creating the Perfect Gravy Base

Take your slow cooker cube steak recipe to the next level with a delicious gravy base. The trick is to mix a few essential ingredients. Start with beef bone broth or stock. Then, add tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce for a deep flavor.

Season with your favorite herbs and spices. This will make the beef dish even more comforting.

Mixing the Sauce Components

For the perfect gravy base, you’ll need:

  • Beef bone broth or stock
  • Tomato paste
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Herbs and spices (such as garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper)

Whisk these ingredients together in the slow cooker until well combined. Let the flavors meld as the cube steak cooks to perfection.

Thickening Techniques

To get the right gravy consistency, use a cornstarch slurry. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch and cold water until smooth. During the last hour of cooking, stir the slurry into the gravy base.

This will thicken it to your liking. If it’s too thick, add more broth. If it’s too thin, add more slurry.

With these tips, you’ll create a slow cooker cube steak recipe with a rich, velvety gravy. It’s the perfect match for this comforting beef dish.

Cooking Times and Temperature Guidelines

Preparing delicious beef cube steak in your slow cooker is all about timing and temperature. These tips will help you make a make-ahead beef dinner that’s always a hit:

  1. Cook the cube steak on the low setting for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking breaks down tough fibers, making the meat tender and fall-apart.
  2. For a quicker option, cook on the high setting for 3-4 hours. This is great if you’re in a hurry but still want tender beef.
  3. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safety and flavor.
  4. Don’t overcook the cube steak. It can become dry and tough. Check it often and remove it from heat when it’s tender.

Using a digital slow cooker with an automatic warm setting is a smart choice. It keeps your beef cube steak warm for hours, perfect for make-ahead beef dinners.

Slow Cooker SizeCooking Time on LowCooking Time on High
6-Quart Crock Pot6-8 hours3-4 hours

“Slow cooking is the secret to making cube steak melt-in-your-mouth tender.”

Flavor Variations and Seasoning Options

This family-friendly beef recipe offers endless flavor options. The slow cooker cube steak’s versatility lets you try many seasonings and sauces. This makes it easy to find the perfect taste for you.

Herb and Spice Combinations

Try different herb and spice mixes to boost the flavor. A homemade blend of thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder is great. Paprika or Italian seasoning can also add a rich taste. For a spicy kick, add cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Alternative Sauce Ideas

While cream of mushroom soup is delicious, you can try other sauces too. Cream of chicken or celery soup can change the flavor. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan on top before serving.

Adding sliced zucchini or fresh spinach in the last hour can make the dish healthier. It also makes it more filling.

This beef dish is all about trying new things. Experiment with different seasonings, sauces, and ingredients. You can make it your own and enjoy it with your family. The possibilities are endless, so have fun!

Best Side Dish Pairings

When serving your slow-cooked cube steak, pick side dishes that match its rich flavors and tender texture. Budget-friendly cube steak is great with many side options, making it perfect for families.

For a classic choice, pair the steak with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice pilaf. These dishes soak up the savory gravy well. Egg noodles are also a great choice, letting the sauce coat each bite. For veggies, try French green beans, corn on the cob, or oven-roasted carrots to complete the meal.

Looking for a low-carb option? Serve the steak with cauliflower rice. The cauliflower’s mild taste won’t clash with the steak. Add a fresh salad and dinner rolls for a full and enjoyable family dinner.

FAQ

What is cube steak, and why is it perfect for slow cooking?

Cube steak comes from the cow’s shoulder, often top round or top sirloin. It’s been tenderized to make it lean and tender. Slow cooking makes it even softer, creating a delicious texture.

What are the key ingredients for this slow cooker cube steak recipe?

You’ll need cube steak, Lipton Onion Soup mix, and sliced onions or onion powder. Also, brown gravy mix and cream of mushroom soup are key. You can choose low-sodium options for a healthier dish.

What size slow cooker should I use for this recipe?

A 6-quart slow cooker is best for this recipe. Make sure to thaw the cube steaks first. Prepare by dicing onions and slicing mushrooms, if using.

How long should I cook the cube steak in the slow cooker?

Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The meat should be fork-tender. Check it often and use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s at least 145°F (63°C).

Can I customize the flavors of this slow cooker cube steak recipe?

Yes, you can add your own seasonings. Try homemade herb and garlic mix, paprika, or Italian herbs. You can also swap cream of mushroom soup for cream of chicken or celery. Adding sliced zucchini or spinach can boost nutrition.

What are some good side dish options to serve with the slow cooker cube steak?

Pair it with mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or egg noodles for a tasty gravy. French green beans, corn on the cob, or oven-roasted carrots are great vegetable sides. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is a good choice.