Slow Cooker Cubed Steak

Slow Cooker Cubed Steak is the ultimate comfort food made easy. This dish features tender beef steaks simmering in a rich, savory gravy that melts in your mouth. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe brings warmth and satisfaction to any occasion. The combination of simple ingredients and effortless cooking makes it a standout choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep, just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Tender and Flavorful: The low-and-slow cooking method ensures that the beef becomes incredibly tender while soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles for a complete meal that suits everyone’s tastes.
• Ideal for Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge, making it perfect for reheating throughout the week.
• Budget-Friendly: Using economical cuts of beef makes this recipe both affordable and satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can enhance your cooking experience. For this recipe, you will need some essential kitchen equipment to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow Cooker
• Large Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring Spoons
• Cutting Board

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking, perfect for busy schedules while delivering deep flavors.
• Large Skillet: Ideal for searing the beef before slow cooking, which enhances texture and taste.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring a lump-free gravy.
• Measuring Spoons: Guarantees accurate seasoning, crucial for achieving balanced flavors.

Ingredients

This Slow Cooker Cubed Steak recipe is the ultimate comfort food made easy—tender beef steaks simmer low and slow in a rich, savory gravy until melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

For the Beef Steaks

• 5 Beef Cube Steak
• 2 teaspoon Seasoned Salt
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
• Black Pepper to taste

For Coating

• ½ cup All Purpose Flour
• ¼ cup Vegetable Oil

For Vegetables and Gravy

• 1 Bell Pepper (sliced)
• 1 Yellow Onion (sliced)
• 2 cups Beef Broth
• 1 10.5 ounce Cream of Mushroom Soup
• 1 Beefy Onion Soup Mix Packet

How to Make Slow Cooker Cubed Steak

Step 1: Prep Work

Sprinkle the flour onto a plate and season it with 1 teaspoon of seasoned salt. Whisk together then set it aside. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Step 2: Season the Beef

Season both sides of the beef steak with 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper to taste. Place the seasoned steaks into the flour mixture and cover both sides; shake off any excess flour.

Step 3: Sear the Steaks

Place the floured steaks into the hot skillet and allow them to sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare Gravy Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the beef broth, beefy onion soup mix, and cream of mushroom soup until well combined. Pour this mixture into your crockpot.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker

Add the seared steaks along with sliced bell peppers and onions into the crockpot. Stir gently to combine.

Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-6 hours until the beef is tender. Serve warm over your choice of side dishes like rice or mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Cubed Steak

Slow Cooker Cubed Steak is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with various sides and garnishes. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal, here are some delightful ways to serve this comforting dish.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for the savory gravy from the cubed steak, soaking up all the rich flavors.

In a Sandwich

• Serve the tender cubed steak on a soft bun, topped with sautéed onions and peppers for a delicious sandwich option that’s easy to eat.

Over Rice

• Fluffy rice is another great option to absorb the flavorful gravy, enhancing each bite of steak and adding texture to your meal.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Pairing cubed steak with steamed broccoli or green beans adds freshness and color to your plate, balancing the richness of the dish.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives can elevate the dish’s presentation while adding a pop of flavor that complements the savory gravy.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Cubed Steak

To ensure your Slow Cooker Cubed Steak turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips for best results.

• Choose quality meat: Use high-quality beef cube steaks for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Sear before slow cooking: Searing the steaks enhances their flavor and creates a nice crust that adds depth to the dish.
• Use homemade broth: If possible, use homemade beef broth for richer taste compared to store-bought options.
• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak the amount of seasoned salt and spices according to your taste preference.
• Keep it low and slow: Cooking on low for longer results in more tender meat; avoid rushing the process for better texture.
• Thicken if needed: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry during the last hour of cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Cubed Steak

Serving Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with complementary side dishes enhances your dining experience. Here are some perfect pairings that will complete your meal.

1. Garlic Bread
   A warm slice of garlic bread is ideal for soaking up gravy and adds a delicious crunch to your meal.
2. Coleslaw
   A refreshing coleslaw provides a crisp contrast to the tender steak while adding a splash of color to your plate.
3. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs provide a hearty side that pairs well with the rich flavors of cubed steak.
4. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob is always a favorite; its natural sweetness complements savory dishes perfectly.
5. Macaroni and Cheese
   Creamy macaroni and cheese offers comfort alongside cubed steak, making it an indulgent side choice for special occasions.
6. Green Salad
   A light green salad with vinaigrette can balance out the heaviness of the main dish while providing freshness.
7. Baked Beans
   The sweetness of baked beans adds another layer of flavor that pairs well with savory meats like cubed steak.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Cubed Steak, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to keep in mind.

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the steaks can result in less flavor. Always sear both sides of the beef to lock in juices and add depth.
• Overcooking: Cooking for too long on high heat may dry out the meat. Stick to low heat for a tender result and avoid exceeding the recommended cooking time.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Under-seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season your beef well before cooking, and taste your gravy for adjustments.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid can lead to burning or uneven cooking. Ensure you have enough broth and soup mixture covering the steak.
• Skipping Vegetables: Missing out on adding vegetables like bell peppers and onions can reduce flavor complexity. Always include them for better texture and taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Can be kept for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Slow Cooker Cubed Steak

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; ensure it’s completely cooled before freezing.

Reheating Slow Cooker Cubed Steak

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to retain moisture while reheating.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through; cover with a microwave-safe lid.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth as needed to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Slow Cooker Cubed Steak more flavorful?

Adding additional spices or herbs like thyme or rosemary can enhance flavor. You could also use different types of broth for variety.

Can I use chicken instead of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken cube steaks, but adjust the cooking time as chicken generally cooks faster than beef.

How do I thicken the gravy in Slow Cooker Cubed Steak?

If your gravy is too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Is there a way to customize this Slow Cooker Cubed Steak recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots or potatoes for added nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Cubed Steak recipe is not only simple but also offers flexibility in ingredients and seasoning. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices!