How to Make Cube Steak in a Crock Pot

Cube steak is one of those unsung heroes in the world of cooking. Often overlooked, this humble cut of meat has the potential to be absolutely tender and packed with flavor, especially when prepared in a crock pot. If you’re looking for a way to turn this affordable cut into a delicious meal, you’ve come to the right place. In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make cube steak in a crock pot—an easy, stress-free recipe that delivers tender, juicy steak with minimal effort. Steak Recipes

Why Choose Cube Steak and the Crock Pot?

Cube steak, often referred to as “minute steak,” is a tougher cut of meat that becomes tender and flavorful when cooked slowly. While it’s not as expensive as some other cuts like ribeye or sirloin, it’s highly versatile. The key to making it tender and flavorful is cooking it low and slow, which is where the crock pot comes in. Using a slow cooker helps break down the fibers in the meat, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth steak that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special family meals.

But the beauty of using a crock pot for this recipe goes beyond tenderness. The convenience factor is huge. You can set it, forget it, and let the crock pot do all the work while you go about your day. The result? A satisfying, homemade meal with little effort required.

Ingredients for Making Slow Cooker Cube Steak

Ensure you have the following ingredients ready before you begin. These simple, easy-to-find items will help you create a flavorful cube steak dinner that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Tip: If you want to enhance the flavor, you can also add herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Cube Steak in a Crock Pot

Making cube steak in a crock pot is incredibly easy. Follow these simple steps to get the most out of your slow-cooked steak:

Step 1: Season the Cube Steak

Start by seasoning your cube steak with salt, pepper, and any other spices or seasonings you prefer. You can even marinate it for a couple of hours if you have the time, but it’s not necessary. The slow cooking process will bring out the flavors regardless of how long you let it sit.

Step 2: Sear the Steak (Optional)

For an added layer of flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and quickly sear each side of the cube steaks for 1-2 minutes. This step helps lock in juices and adds a lovely crust to the steak. However, if you’re pressed for time, you can skip this step and place the steak directly into the crock pot.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Once your steak is ready, add sliced onions, minced garlic, and any optional ingredients like mushrooms to the crock pot. These vegetables will cook down beautifully and add depth to the flavor of your dish.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

In a separate bowl, mix together the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the steak and vegetables in the crock pot. Make sure the steak is mostly submerged, as this will help it become tender while it cooks.

Step 5: Stir and Cover

Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients, and then cover the crock pot with its lid. Set the heat to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or set it to high for 3-4 hours if you’re short on time.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cube Steak

Slow cooker cube steak is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides to make a complete meal. Here are some classic options:

Traditional Sides to Serve with Cube Steak

• Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the rich gravy from the slow-cooked steak.
• Rice: Serve the steak and gravy over a bed of rice for a comforting and hearty dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, potatoes, or even Brussels sprouts complement the flavors of the cube steak.
• Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: If you want to balance the richness of the steak, serve it with steamed vegetables for a lighter touch.

Repurposing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Cube steak can be repurposed into a variety of dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Cube Steak Sandwiches: Shred the leftover steak and gravy, then serve it on a bun for a delicious sandwich.
• Wraps: Use the leftovers in a wrap with some fresh greens and maybe a bit of cheese.
• Cube Steak Tacos: Give your leftover steak a Tex-Mex twist by turning it into tacos with salsa, guacamole, and a sprinkle of cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Cube Steak in a Slow Cooker

Although making cube steak in a crock pot is simple, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid to ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time.

Overcooking the Steak

Cube steak is already a tougher cut of meat, so if you cook it too long, it can become mushy. Be sure to follow the recommended cooking times for either low or high heat. After cooking, the steak should be tender but still maintain its texture.

Not Browning the Meat

Although browning the steak before adding it to the crock pot is optional, it enhances the dish with a rich, caramelized flavor. If you have the time, searing the steak in a pan for a minute or two on each side before slow cooking can make a significant difference in the overall flavor.

Using Too Much Liquid

Cube steak doesn’t require a lot of liquid to cook. In fact, adding too much broth or water can lead to a watery gravy. Stick to the recipe’s suggested amount of broth and let the natural juices from the steak and vegetables create the perfect sauce. https://www.pinterest.com/pin/1073264154945034335

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Slow Cooker Cube Steak

Q1: How long does it take to cook cube steak in a slow cooker?

The cooking time for cube steak in a slow cooker is typically around 6-8 hours on low heat, or 3-4 hours on high heat. Be sure to check the steak for tenderness—if it easily shreds with a fork, it’s done.

Q2: Can I use frozen cube steak for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cube steak, but keep in mind that it may need an additional hour of cooking time. Always ensure the steak is fully thawed before attempting to sear it or add it to the slow cooker if you want to achieve the best results.

Q3: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the cube steak?

Absolutely! Vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms cook beautifully in the slow cooker with the steak. These will add flavor to the gravy while cooking and create a balanced meal in one pot.

Q4: How do I thicken the gravy for my cube steak?

If your gravy is too thin, you can easily thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with a little water and stirring it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help the gravy achieve a rich, thick texture.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious, Tender Slow Cooker Cube Steak

Now that you know how to make cube steak in a crock pot, you can enjoy a tender, flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for busy families or anyone who loves the simplicity of slow cooking. By following these simple steps, you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress without the stress.

So, next time you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dinner, don’t overlook the cube steak—give it a try in the crock pot for a delicious and effortless meal. Happy cooking!

Downloadable Recipe Card for Slow Cooker Cube Steak

For your convenience, here’s a printable version of the recipe for easy access in the kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4 cube steaks
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup mushrooms

Instructions:

1. Sprinkle the cube steak with salt and pepper to enhance its flavor.
2. (Optional) Sear the steak in a skillet for 1-2 minutes per side.
3. Place the steak in the crock pot with onions, garlic, and optional mushrooms.
4. Mix the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce and pour over the steak.
5. Place the lid on the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice and enjoy!

This detailed, informative guide ensures that you’ll be able to make slow-cooked cube steak perfectly every time.