Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is comfort food at its best. This dish features tender cube steak simmered in a rich, flavorful gravy, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. With minimal prep time, you can set your Crock Pot and let it do the work while you enjoy your day. This recipe highlights the simplicity of slow cooking, delivering a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking – Just toss the ingredients into your Crock Pot, set the timer, and relax while it cooks.
- Rich Flavor – The combination of onion soup mix and cream of mushroom soup creates a savory gravy that enhances the cube steak.
- Versatile Meal – Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for different delicious options.
- Family-Friendly – This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this dish fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy efficiently, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in ensuring your dish turns out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 6-quart Crock Pot
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- 6-quart Crock Pot – This size is ideal for cooking enough food to feed a family without overcrowding.
- Mixing bowl – Perfect for combining ingredients like cornstarch and water before adding them to the pot.
- Measuring cups – Ensure accurate measurements of liquids for consistent results in your gravy.
- Measuring spoons – Essential for measuring smaller quantities of ingredients like cornstarch.
Ingredients
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy requires simple ingredients that you may already have on hand. Gather these items before you start cooking.
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Cube steak
- 1 package onion soup mix (1 ounce)
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
How to Make Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by placing the cube steak, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth into your 6-quart Crock Pot.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Cover the Crock Pot with its lid.
- Set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender.
Step 3: Thicken the Gravy
- One hour before serving, combine cornstarch and water in a small mixing bowl until smooth.
- Stir this mixture into the crock pot to help thicken your gravy.
- Cook on high for an additional hour.
Step 4: Prepare Egg Noodles
- While your sauce is thickening, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
Step 5: Serve Your Dish
- Once everything is ready, serve the tender steak and rich gravy over the cooked egg noodles.
- Enjoy this comforting meal with family or friends!
How to Serve Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is a hearty dish that can be served in various ways. This versatile meal pairs well with different sides and garnishes, making it a delightful choice for family dinners.
Over Egg Noodles
- Serve the steak and gravy generously over cooked egg noodles for a classic comfort meal. The noodles absorb the gravy beautifully.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Pair this dish with creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can enhance the flavor.
On Rice
- Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a lighter option. The rice will complement the rich sauce perfectly.
In a Sandwich
- Use leftover steak and gravy to create a warm sandwich on crusty bread. Add some sautéed onions for extra flavor.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Present with steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans or carrots for a balanced meal. The freshness of the veggies contrasts nicely with the rich gravy.
How to Perfect Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
To achieve the best results with your Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Quality Meat: Selecting good-quality cube steak ensures tenderness and flavor in your dish.
- Sear Before Cooking: For an added depth of flavor, quickly sear the beef in a skillet before adding it to the crock pot.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your gravy before serving; you may want to add salt or pepper based on your preference.
- Thicken to Desired Consistency: If you prefer a thicker gravy, allow it to cook longer after adding cornstarch.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme can elevate the flavors; sprinkle them on just before serving for a pop of color and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
While Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right sides enhances the overall experience. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread makes for an excellent accompaniment, perfect for sopping up sauce.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a nutty flavor that complements the richness of the gravy.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to this hearty meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a touch of sweetness while providing great texture.
- Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that still delivers creaminess.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs wonderfully with savory flavors from the dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy can be simple, but there are common mistakes to watch out for. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.
- Ingredient Choices: Using low-quality cube steak can affect the tenderness. Always choose fresh, high-quality meat for the best results.
- Overcooking: Cooking too long on high heat may dry out the meat. Stick to low heat for a tender, juicy outcome.
- Ignoring Gravy Thickness: Not thickening the gravy can lead to a watery sauce. Use cornstarch mixed with water as instructed to achieve the right consistency.
- Skipping Noodles: Forgetting the egg noodles means missing a key component of the dish. Cook them according to package instructions while your meat is finishing up.
- Not Seasoning Properly: Relying solely on soup mixes may result in bland flavors. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Use within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
- Freeze in a heavy-duty freezer bag or airtight container.
- Best used within 2-3 months for quality.
Reheating Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot all the way through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy.
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute pork or chicken, but cooking times may vary depending on the meat used.
How do I know when my cube steak is done?
Your cube steak is done when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. This typically takes around 6-8 hours on low heat.
What can I serve with Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy?
This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Can I make Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors by adding veggies or different seasonings. Give this recipe a try; perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings!
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender, flavorful cube steak with a rich, savory gravy. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, allowing you to set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work. With minimal prep and a handful of simple ingredients, you can enjoy a hearty meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Serve this delicious beef stew over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice for a complete dinner that warms the soul.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs cube steak
- 1 package onion soup mix (1 ounce)
- 2 cans cream of mushroom soup (10.5 ounces each)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions
- Place the cube steak, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth in a 6-quart Crock Pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until fork-tender.
- One hour before serving, mix cornstarch with water until smooth and stir into the pot to thicken the gravy.
- Prepare egg noodles according to package instructions.
- Serve the beef and gravy over cooked noodles.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
