Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy: Comfort Food Made Easy

Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy: Comfort Food Made Easy

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty meal that you can simply set and forget. Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy fits that bill perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying family dinner or a simple, budget-friendly meal, this slow-cooked dish delivers tenderness and flavor with minimal effort. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to make this irresistible comfort food, step by step.

What is Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy?

Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is a classic comfort dish that’s perfect for busy days. Cube steak, a tenderized cut of beef, is slow-cooked in a flavorful gravy made with beef broth and seasoning. This simple yet hearty dish brings out rich, savory flavors, while the crock pot works its magic to make the meat incredibly tender. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a comforting, home-cooked meal that your family will love.

Why It’s the Perfect Comfort Food

When you think of comfort food, you likely imagine dishes that fill your kitchen with rich aromas and make you feel cozy and satisfied. This dish embodies all that, and more. Slow cooking cube steak allows the beef to absorb the savory gravy flavors, creating a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is easy!

Ingredients for Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy

Making this dish requires minimal ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry. Here’s a breakdown of the essentials and a few optional additions that can take your meal to the next level.

Essential Ingredients:

• Cube Steak: This is the star of the dish. Cube steak is beef that’s been tenderized, making it perfect for slow cooking.
• Beef Broth: Provides the base for the gravy. If you prefer a richer taste, use low-sodium beef broth or homemade beef stock.
• Gravy Mix: A packet of gravy mix simplifies the process. However, you can also make your own homemade gravy using flour, cornstarch, and beef broth.
• Onion: A medium onion, sliced, adds sweetness and depth to the gravy.
• Garlic (Optional): For those who love a bit of extra flavor, add some crushed garlic to give the gravy an aromatic twist.

Optional Add-ins:

• Mushrooms: Incorporate sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor and an umami-rich enhancement.
• Carrots and Potatoes: These vegetables can cook along with the steak, adding more texture and nutrition to your meal.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A tablespoon can enhance the flavor of the gravy, adding a slight tangy depth.

Ingredient Table:

Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy Recipe Instructions

Ingredients:

• 4-6 cube steaks
• 1 packet of gravy mix (or homemade gravy)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic (optional), minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Mushrooms, carrots, and potatoes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cube Steak:
   Season the cube steaks with salt, pepper, and any other spices you prefer. For extra flavor, you can sear the steaks in a hot pan for 2-3 minutes per side before adding them to the Crock Pot.
2. Add to Crock Pot:
   Place the seasoned cube steaks at the bottom of the Crock Pot. Add the sliced onions, minced garlic (optional), and any additional vegetables like mushrooms or carrots.
3. Make the Gravy:
   In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth and gravy mix (or your homemade gravy). Stir until well blended.
4. Pour Gravy Over Steaks:
   Pour the gravy mixture over the cube steaks in the Crock Pot. If you’re adding potatoes, carrots, or mushrooms, mix them in with the gravy.
5. Cook:
   Cover and set the Crock Pot to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The steaks will become tender as they slow-cook in the gravy.
6. Finish and Serve:
   Once the steak is tender, taste the gravy and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the cube steak and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

A Complete Guide to Preparing Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy

With all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start cooking! With just a little prep work, your Crock Pot will do all the hard work. Here’s how to prepare this comfort food:

Preparation Time:

You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ingredients. The actual cooking time takes between 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. While it’s cooking, you can get on with your day, knowing that dinner will be ready when you are.

How to Cook Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy:

1. Prepare the Cube Steak:
   Start by seasoning the cube steak with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like (garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika all work well). If you prefer a richer flavor, lightly brown the steak in a skillet before adding it to the Crock Pot.
2. Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
   Place the seasoned cube steaks in the bottom of the Crock Pot. Add the sliced onions and any optional add-ins, like mushrooms or garlic. Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle the gravy mix over the top. Stir slightly to distribute the mix.
3. Set the Crock Pot:
   Set your Crock Pot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, depending on your time availability. The long, slow cooking time helps break down the fibers in the steak, making it incredibly tender and flavorful.
4. Finish and Serve:
   Once the steak is tender and the gravy has thickened, give everything a good stir. Sample the gravy and tweak the seasoning as needed. Serve your Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a complete, comforting meal.

Why Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is a Family Favorite

Budget-Friendly Meal

One of the best aspects of Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is how affordable it is. Cube steak is an inexpensive cut of beef that becomes wonderfully tender when slow-cooked. You don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal. Compared to other beef cuts, cube steak offers excellent value for your money.

Perfect for Busy Schedules

With the demands of everyday life, you don’t always have time to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where the Crock Pot comes in. This meal is incredibly easy to prepare and requires minimal attention while it cooks. Simply set it and let the slow cooker work its magic, allowing you to focus on other tasks or relax while dinner practically cooks itself.

Versatile and Customizable

Another reason why this recipe is such a hit is how versatile it is. Feel free to adjust it according to your tastes or dietary requirements. Whether you’re adding extra veggies, using a different cut of beef, or even tweaking the seasonings, there are plenty of ways to make this dish your own.

Best Side Dishes to Pair with Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy

While the steak and gravy are the stars of the show, the sides you pair with it can elevate the meal even further. Here are some side dish ideas that go wonderfully with this comforting dish:

Mashed Potatoes

A classic choice! The creamy mashed potatoes soak up the savory gravy, making each bite even more delicious.

Rice or Noodles

If you prefer something lighter, serve the cube steak and gravy over steamed rice or egg noodles. Both options perfectly complement the tender steak.

Steamed Vegetables

For a healthier addition, try steaming some green beans, carrots, or peas to add color and nutrition to your plate.

Bread

Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread to mop up the gravy. It’s simple, but effective!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute cube steak with other cuts like round steak or chuck steak. However, these cuts may require slightly different cooking times, so be sure to adjust accordingly. Cube steak works particularly well because it’s tenderized and perfect for slow cooking.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free gravy mix or make your own with cornstarch and beef broth. Ensure that your beef broth is also gluten-free, as some store-bought versions contain gluten.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy freezes wonderfully. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, simply defrost overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove or in the microwave.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that’s both easy to prepare and delicious to eat. With minimal ingredients and little prep time, this meal is perfect for busy days, large families, or anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal with little effort. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy and warm your soul.

So why not give this simple, comforting recipe a try today? You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to prepare, and how much everyone will love it. Ready to make your own Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy? Grab your ingredients and get cooking – comfort food is just a few hours away!