When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to slow cooker cubed steak. Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it also transforms a tough cut of beef into a tender, flavorful meal. If you’re looking for a dinner option that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor, slow cooker cubed steak is the perfect choice. In fact, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
By using a slow cooker, the cubed steak slowly absorbs the rich flavors of gravy, beef broth, and onion soup mix. This low-and-slow cooking method allows the meat to become incredibly tender, resulting in a dish that melts in your mouth. Moreover, the slow cooker does all the work, freeing you up to focus on other things. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect slow cooker cubed steak.
Why Use a Slow Cooker for Cubed Steak?
There are several reasons why a slow cooker is the best way to prepare cubed steak. First and foremost, cubed steak tends to be tough, even though it’s been mechanically tenderized. However, when cooked in a slow cooker, the low heat over an extended period allows the steak to break down and become tender. As a result, you’re left with a melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s simply irresistible.
Furthermore, the slow cooking process enhances the flavors of the dish. The gravy, beef broth, and onion soup mix combine with the natural juices from the meat, creating a rich and savory sauce. Additionally, using a slow cooker is incredibly convenient because you can set it and forget it. This makes it perfect for busy days when you don’t have time to spend in the kitchen.
If you enjoy slow-cooked beef dishes, you might also want to check out this Mahogany Beef Stew Recipe, which similarly uses a slow cooker to tenderize a tough cut of meat.
Essential Ingredients for Slow Cooker Cubed Steak
Creating a delicious slow cooker cubed steak dish requires just a handful of basic ingredients. Together, they bring out the best flavors and textures in the steak.
- Cubed Steak: The main ingredient, cubed steak, is a tough cut of beef that becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
- Brown Gravy Mix: This is an easy way to add flavor and thickness to the sauce.
- Beef Broth: Adds depth and richness to the gravy, enhancing the steak’s natural flavor.
- Golden Mushroom Soup: Contributes both creaminess and a subtle mushroom flavor to the dish.
- Onion Soup Mix: A versatile seasoning blend that adds a touch of complexity to the dish.
In addition to these core ingredients, you can make substitutions depending on what you have on hand. For instance, if you don’t have golden mushroom soup, you can easily use cream of mushroom soup instead. The overall flavor might be slightly different, but the dish will still be rich and savory.
Looking for more ways to enhance your beef dishes? Check out this Garlic Butter Steak Potatoes Skillet for ideas on seasoning and pairing steak with other flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Cubed Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the simple steps to make this delicious dish.
Step1: Set Up Your Slow Cooker
- First, place the cubed steak at the bottom of your slow cooker. It’s best to arrange the pieces in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- This arrangement will allow the steaks to cook thoroughly without overlapping, ensuring they all become tender.
Step2: Add the Seasonings
- Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the steaks. This will add a rich, flavorful seasoning base to the dish.
- Afterward, add the brown gravy mix. These two seasoning mixes will combine to create a savory, flavorful base for the gravy as they cook.
Step3: Pour in the Wet Ingredients
- Next, pour the beef broth and golden mushroom soup over the steaks and seasoning mixtures.
- Stir the ingredients lightly to ensure they are somewhat combined, but don’t worry if they’re not fully blended yet—the slow cooker will take care of that as it cooks.
Step4: Start Slow Cooking
- Now, set your slow cooker to LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 4 hours. By cooking low and slow, the steak will have time to absorb all the flavors and become tender.
- As the cooking time nears its end, check the steaks to make sure they are tender but not overcooked.
Step5: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
- If the gravy is thinner than you prefer, you can transfer it to a saucepan and simmer it on the stove for 5 minutes. Stir it frequently to help it thicken.
- Another option is to mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the gravy for a quicker thickening process.
For more tips on creating the perfect gravy or sauce, check out this Homemade Hot Pockets Recipe, which offers helpful advice on thickening sauces and gravies.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Cubed Steak
Once your slow cooker cubed steak is ready, you’ll want to serve it with sides that complement the rich, savory flavors. Fortunately, this dish pairs well with a variety of sides, so you have plenty of options.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are the classic pairing for slow cooker cubed steak. The soft texture of the potatoes soaks up the gravy perfectly.
- Egg Noodles: The tenderness of the steak goes wonderfully with the soft texture of egg noodles, which also absorb the delicious gravy.
- Rice: For a lighter option, serve the steak over steamed white or brown rice. The rice will balance out the rich flavors of the dish.
- Vegetables: Green beans, roasted carrots, or sautéed mushrooms make excellent side dishes. These vegetables not only add texture but also bring out the flavors of the steak.
Don’t forget the bread! Cornbread or dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the gravy, ensuring you enjoy every last bite.
Tips for Perfecting Your Slow Cooker Cubed Steak
Even though slow cooker cubed steak is easy to make, there are a few tips that can help you achieve even better results. By following these simple suggestions, you can ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Make the Steak Tender
- Choose the Right Cut: While cubed steak is pre-tenderized, it still benefits from slow cooking. The low, consistent heat helps break down the meat’s fibers.
- Monitor the Cooking Time: Overcooking the steak can lead to dryness, even in a slow cooker. Stick to the recommended cooking times and check for doneness near the end.
- Marinate the Steak: For an extra tender steak, consider marinating it in beef broth or a vinegar-based marinade before cooking. This will further soften the meat.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- To reheat, warm the steak gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid overcooking and drying out the meat.
Want more tips on keeping your meat dishes tender and flavorful? Take a look at this guide on How to Cook Chicken Breasts and Keep Them Moist.
Variations on Slow Cooker Cubed Steak
One of the great things about this recipe is how easily it can be customized. If you want to mix things up, here are some variations to try:
- Mushrooms and Onions: For added flavor, sauté mushrooms and onions and add them to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Pepper Steak Version: Add bell peppers and crushed red pepper flakes to the dish for a spicy twist.
- Swiss Steak Style: Use diced tomatoes and onions instead of gravy mix to create a tangy, tomato-based version of the dish.
If you enjoy trying new steak recipes, this Sizzling Chinese Pepper Steak offers a flavorful and spicy alternative to traditional steak dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cubed Steak
Here are some common questions people have about making slow cooker cubed steak:
Can I Use Frozen Cubed Steak?
Yes, you can use frozen cubed steak in the slow cooker. However, for the best results, it’s recommended to thaw the steak first. This ensures more even cooking.
What Should I Do If the Gravy Is Too Thin?
If your gravy is too thin, transfer it to a saucepan and simmer it on the stove for a few minutes to thicken. Alternatively, you can stir in a cornstarch slurry to help it thicken more quickly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover slow cooker cubed steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain its tenderness.
Can I Substitute Golden Mushroom Soup?
Yes, if you don’t have golden mushroom soup, you can substitute it with regular cream of mushroom soup. While the flavor will be slightly different, the dish will still be delicious.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a healthier version of slow cooker cubed steak, use low-sodium beef broth and serve the steak over cauliflower mash instead of potatoes to reduce carbs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, slow cooker cubed steak is the perfect meal for busy nights when you want something comforting and flavorful without much hassle. By using a slow cooker, you can transform a tough cut of beef into a tender, delicious dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Whether you serve it with mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Don’t forget to try some of the suggested variations, and for more easy, delicious meal ideas, explore this Crockpot Cowboy Soup recipe.
Happy cooking!