How to Cook Slow Cooker Cube Steak for Perfect Tenderness
There’s something incredibly comforting about a home-cooked meal that practically makes itself. Imagine coming home to the rich, savory scent of tender cube steak simmering in flavorful juices.It’s a meal that surrounds you with warmth, filling the home with comforting nostalgia and the anticipation of a satisfying dinner. But if you’ve ever tried cooking cube steak before, you know it can sometimes turn out tough and chewy.
Don’t worry—you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through how to turn this budget-friendly cut into a dish so tender it practically falls apart with a fork. Using a slow cooker, you can achieve perfect results every time with minimal effort. Ready to transform your cube steak game? Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Ingredients and Equipment You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Cube steak | 4 pieces |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Onion (sliced) | 1 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tbsp |
| Mushroom soup (optional) | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
| Black pepper | 1 tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Cornstarch (optional) | 1 tbsp (for gravy) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
Equipment
- Slow cooker (4-6 quart)
- Skillet (optional for browning)
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cube Steak
- Begin by patting the steak dry with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture, ensuring the seasoning adheres more effectively.
- Sprinkle both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic. Seasoning generously now lays the groundwork for rich, bold flavors later.
- If you have the time, brown the steak in a skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. A quick 2-3 minute sear on each side locks in juices and creates a beautiful crust. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step—your steak will still come out tender.
2. Layer Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- Begin by layering the sliced onions evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker. This forms a flavorful base and prevents the steak from sticking.
- Lay the cube steak pieces on top of the onions.
- Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. If you’re using mushroom soup, spread it over the steak for added richness.
3. Slow Cook for Optimal Tenderness
- Set your slow cooker to LOW and allow it to simmer for 6-8 hours, letting the flavors develop beautifully. The longer you cook it at a low temperature, the more tender the steak becomes.
- Avoid the temptation to lift the lid too often. Each peek lets heat escape, potentially adding unnecessary cooking time.
4. Make the Gravy (Optional)
- Once the steak is tender, remove it from the slow cooker and cover it to keep warm.
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk cornstarch with water to create a slurry. Stir it into the juices left in the slow cooker.
- Switch the slow cooker to HIGH and let the sauce simmer for about 20 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Cube Steak
- Choose the right cut: Opt for thicker cuts of cube steak as they withstand long cooking times without falling apart.
- Don’t skip the liquid: Keeping the steak immersed in broth or sauce is key to keeping it moist and tender.
- Patience pays off: Cooking on LOW yields the best results. Resist the urge to speed things up by using the HIGH setting.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the steak with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles. The gravy created in the slow cooker doubles as the perfect topping.
- Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the steak.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add color and a burst of freshness to your plate.
FAQs About Slow Cooker Cube Steak
1. How long should I cook cube steak in a slow cooker?
Cube steak benefits from low, slow cooking. Six to eight hours on LOW is ideal. Cooking it too fast on HIGH can result in tougher meat.
2. Can I put raw cube steak in the slow cooker?
Absolutely. While browning adds flavor, cube steak can go directly into the slow cooker raw. The long cooking time ensures it will cook thoroughly.
3. Why is my cube steak still tough after slow cooking?
If the steak isn’t tender after 6-8 hours, leave it for another hour or two. Tough cuts sometimes need a bit more time to break down completely.
4. Can I use frozen cube steak in the slow cooker?
Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first. Frozen meat can add extra liquid and may not cook as evenly. If using frozen, adjust the cooking time by 1-2 hours.
Conclusion
Cooking steak in a slow cooker is a game-changer. With just a few basic ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a tender, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Slow cooker cube steak isn’t just a meal; it’s comfort food at its finest. Try this recipe today, and watch it become a family favorite you’ll return to time and time again.
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