Crock Pot Cube Steaks And Gravy: My Experience And Tips
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and easy, let me share my experience with crock pot cube steaks and gravy. I’ve made this dish on busy weekdays and lazy Sundays. Each time, it fills my kitchen with a rich aroma and leaves everyone satisfied. Even if you’re not a confident cook, this recipe is friendly and forgiving. I’ve learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t, so I’ll walk you through every step.
Why Crock Pot Cube Steaks Work So Well
Cube steak is a budget-friendly cut of beef. It’s usually tenderized and looks a bit like ground beef patties. On its own, it can be tough. But when you use a slow cooker, magic happens. The low, slow heat breaks down the meat, making it incredibly tender.
The gravy is the real star. It brings everything together and soaks into the meat. Over the years, I’ve tried different gravy bases—some from scratch, some with soup mixes. Both work, but I’ll show you my favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and What Not To Skip)
Let’s keep this simple. Here’s what you’ll need for about 4 servings:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1.5 lbs total)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of chicken for a milder taste)
- 1 packet onion soup mix (the dry kind)
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup sliced onions (optional, but adds flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil (for browning, optional)
If you want to add a twist, try tossing in sliced mushrooms or a few garlic cloves. I’ve done it, and both add depth to the gravy.
Ingredient Comparison: Scratch Vs. Shortcut
Here’s a quick breakdown of using homemade vs. shortcut ingredients:
| Ingredient | Homemade | Shortcut |
|---|---|---|
| Gravy Base | Butter, flour, broth, cream | Canned soup |
| Flavor Add-ins | Fresh onions, garlic, herbs | Onion soup mix |
| Cooking Time | Longer prep | Quicker prep |
I often use the shortcut version when time is tight, and no one complains.
Credit: www.wellborn2rbeef.com
Step-by-step: How I Make Crock Pot Cube Steaks And Gravy
1. Brown The Steaks (optional):
I like to brown my cube steaks in a pan with a little oil for 2 minutes per side. This adds flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.
2. Layer In The Crock Pot:
Place the steaks in the bottom. Scatter sliced onions over the top if using.
3. Mix The Gravy:
In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir until smooth. Pour this mixture over the steaks.
4. Slow Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 4 hours. I’ve tried both, but the meat is most tender on low.
5. Thicken The Gravy:
About 30 minutes before serving, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water. Stir this into the slow cooker. The gravy thickens as it finishes.
6. Taste And Season:
I always taste the gravy before serving and add salt or pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
My family loves these steaks with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. The gravy is so good, you’ll want something to soak it up.
Cooking Time And Servings
- Prep time: 10 minutes (15 if browning steaks)
- Cook time: 6-8 hours on low, or 4 hours on high
- Serves: 4
What I’ve Learned (beyond The Basics)
Here are a couple of insights I wish I knew earlier:
- Don’t overcrowd the crock pot. The steaks should be in a single layer if possible. If you stack them, they may cook unevenly.
- Let the gravy rest. Turning off the crock pot and letting it sit for 10 minutes helps the gravy thicken and flavors blend.
I’ve also noticed that the leftovers taste even better the next day. The flavors deepen, and the meat stays tender.
Common Mistakes And How To Avoid Them
I’ve had my share of kitchen blunders. Here are some common ones with tips:
1. Gravy Too Thin:
Don’t panic—just add more cornstarch mixed with cold water, a little at a time.
2. Meat Too Tough:
This usually means it didn’t cook long enough. Cube steaks really need the full 6-8 hours on low.
3. Bland Flavor:
If the gravy tastes flat, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of garlic powder can help.
4. Too Salty:
Some soup mixes are salty. Taste before adding extra salt.
Serving Suggestions And Variations
My go-to is creamy mashed potatoes. You can also serve with:
- Steamed rice
- Egg noodles
- Roasted vegetables
- Dinner rolls (to soak up the gravy)
If you want to make it healthier, try using low-sodium soup and broth. You can also add carrots or celery to the crock pot for extra veggies.
Here’s a quick look at some serving ideas and how they pair with the dish:
| Side Dish | Texture | How Well It Pairs |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy | Excellent |
| Rice | Fluffy | Very Good |
| Egg Noodles | Soft | Great |
Credit: spicysouthernkitchen.com
Nutritional Facts
Cube steaks are fairly lean, but the gravy can add calories and sodium. Here’s an approximate breakdown for one serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Sodium | 1100mg |
If you’re watching sodium, go for low-salt options. I’ve started doing this myself, and the flavor is still great.
A Few Non-obvious Tips
- Use a liner: Crock pot liners save a lot of scrubbing. I resisted at first, but now I always use one.
- Freeze leftovers in gravy: The meat stays moist and reheats well. Just thaw overnight and warm gently.
Credit: busydaydinners.com
Where I Learned More
I found a lot of helpful advice on Allrecipes, especially when I was just starting out. The user reviews there gave me the confidence to tweak things to my taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Keep Cube Steaks From Getting Tough In The Crock Pot?
The secret is low and slow cooking. Make sure you cook the steaks for at least 6 hours on low. If you use high heat or a shorter time, the meat may be chewy.
Can I Use A Different Cut Of Beef?
Yes, you can use round steak or sirloin, but cube steak is best for tenderness after slow cooking.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Let the steaks cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months.
Can I Double The Recipe?
Yes, but don’t overcrowd your crock pot. If you double the amount, make sure your cooker is large enough and add a bit more broth to cover the meat.
Is There A Way To Make This Gluten-free?
Use a gluten-free soup mix and cornstarch for thickening. Always check labels to be sure.
Cooking crock pot cube steaks and gravy has become a family favorite in my home. It’s simple, filling, and always brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or just want a reliable recipe, I hope my experience helps you make this dish with confidence. Give it a try—you’ll be surprised how easy and tasty it is!
