Crock Pot Cube Steak
Crock Pot Cube Steak is the ultimate weeknight dinner solution! Tender, flavorful, and practically effortless, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Letβs dive into how to make the most amazing cube steak in your slow cooker.
Why You’ll Love Crock Pot Cube Steak
Cube steak often gets a bad rap for being tough. But with the magic of a slow cooker, it transforms into fork-tender perfection. Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of savory beef simmering in a rich, delicious gravy. That’s the promise of Crock Pot Cube Steak! It’s budget-friendly, requires minimal prep, and frees you up to tackle other things while dinner practically cooks itself.
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Getting Started: Essential Ingredients and Prep
Choosing Your Cube Steak
Cube steak is simply beef that’s been tenderized by pounding, which breaks down the muscle fibers. Look for pieces that are relatively uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking. Don’t worry about expensive cuts β cube steak’s affordability is part of its charm!
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The Gravy Game: Building Flavor
The gravy is where the magic truly happens. Hereβs what youβll need:
- Onion and Garlic: Aromatics that form the base of the flavor.
- Beef Broth: The liquid backbone of the gravy. You can substitute with beef bouillon and water if needed.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup (optional): This adds richness and thickens the gravy. You can substitute with other “cream of” soups or skip it altogether for a lighter gravy.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth.
- Flour or Cornstarch: To thicken the gravy.
- Salt and Pepper: Seasoning is key!
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Simple Prep Steps
- Season the Cube Steak: Liberally season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Sear (Optional): Searing the cube steak adds a delicious crust and deepens the flavor. Heat a skillet with a little oil and sear each side for a minute or two until browned. This step is optional but highly recommended.
- Chop the Vegetables: Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
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The Crock Pot Cooking Process
Layering for Success
Hereβs the secret to perfectly cooked cube steak in the slow cooker:
- Start with a layer of sliced onions in the bottom of your crock pot. This prevents the meat from sticking and adds flavor.
- Arrange the cube steak on top of the onions.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup (if using), Worcestershire sauce, and garlic.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the cube steak.
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Slow and Steady Wins the Race
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cube steak should be incredibly tender and easily shredded with a fork.
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Thickening the Gravy
If the gravy is too thin, you can easily thicken it. In a small bowl, whisk together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Pour the slurry into the crock pot, stir, and cook on high for another 15-30 minutes, or until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. You can also use flour, but make sure to mix it with cold water first to avoid clumps.
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Serving Suggestions and Variations
Perfect Pairings
Crock Pot Cube Steak is incredibly versatile. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing that soaks up the delicious gravy.
- Rice: Another great option for absorbing the flavorful sauce.
- Noodles: Egg noodles or pasta are fantastic with cube steak.
- Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or a side salad for a complete meal.
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Spice It Up!
Want to add a little kick? Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mixture.
Mushroom Lovers
Add sliced fresh mushrooms to the crock pot along with the onions for extra earthy flavor.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Cube Steak is a simple yet satisfying meal thatβs perfect for busy weeknights. By following these tips, you can transform budget-friendly cube steak into a tender, flavorful dish that your whole family will love. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a truly effortless and delicious dinner! Ready to try it? Don’t forget to check out our other slow cooker recipes for more easy meal ideas!
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