A Complete Guide to Preparing Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
When you’re craving a comforting, savory meal that practically cooks itself, there’s nothing quite like a warm plate of crock pot cube steak and gravy. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender cube steak with a rich, flavorful gravy. Whether you’re busy at work, running errands, or just relaxing at home, this slow-cooked dish gives you a delicious, stress-free dinner with minimal effort. Best of all, it’s an affordable meal that can feed the whole family!
If you’ve never made this easy crock pot recipe before, don’t worry! This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from preparing the ingredients to serving up the perfect plate. By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert at making crock pot cube steak and gravy, with tips and tricks to ensure your dish is a hit every time.
Table of Contents
Why Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is a Family Favorite
You might be wondering why cube steak is such a popular choice for crock pot meals. After all, it’s a relatively affordable cut of beef. The answer lies in the cooking process. When cube steak is cooked slowly in a crock pot, it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful. The slow cooking method helps break down the fibers in the meat, allowing it to absorb all the flavors of the gravy and seasoning, resulting in a mouthwatering, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The beauty of using a crock pot for this recipe is that it practically does the cooking for you. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a hearty, comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the crock pot allows you to multitask, so you can focus on other things while your meal cooks away.
What You’ll Need for Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the key ingredients you’ll need. These are simple, everyday ingredients that you may already have on hand. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’ll need to make the perfect crock pot cube steak and gravy:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cube steak | 4 pieces | Tenderized cuts, also called “minute steak” |
| Brown gravy mix | 1 packet | Can use homemade if preferred |
| Beef broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium is recommended |
| Onion (optional) | 1 medium | Adds richness to the flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | Optional for extra flavor |
| Cornstarch | 1 tbsp | Used for thickening the gravy |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For browning the steak |
Cube Steak: The Star of the Show
Cube steak, sometimes called “minute steak,” is typically a cheaper cut of meat, but it’s perfect for slow cooking. This cut is tenderized through a process known as “cubing,” which helps break down the fibers in the meat. When slow-cooked, cube steak becomes incredibly tender and easy to shred, making it ideal for a dish like this.
Brown Gravy Mix: Shortcut to Deliciousness
Using a packet of brown gravy mix is an easy way to create a rich, flavorful gravy without needing to make it from scratch. If you prefer a homemade version, you can always use beef broth, flour, and seasonings to create a simple, from-scratch gravy.
Beef Broth: Adds Depth and Moisture
Beef broth is key to creating a flavorful gravy that soaks into the meat. It helps to tenderize the cube steak while infusing it with savory goodness.
Preparing Your Crock Pot Cube Steak
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to prep the cube steak and start cooking. The key to making this recipe successful is to ensure your cube steak is properly seasoned and browned before adding it to the crock pot.
Step 1: Brown the Cube Steak
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cube steak to the pan. Brown the steaks for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they develop a nice, golden-brown crust. This step helps lock in the juices and flavors.
Step 2: Season Your Steak
Before searing the steak, season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to add a boost of flavor. If you like extra seasoning, you can sprinkle in some onion powder, smoked paprika, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an added layer of umami.
Step 3: Add to the Crock Pot
After browning the steak, transfer the pieces to your crock pot. If you’re using onions, slice them and add them on top of the steak. The onions will cook down and add a wonderful sweetness to the dish as it simmers.
Cooking Your Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
Once your cube steak is prepped and added to the crock pot, it’s time to cook it low and slow. This is where the magic happens. The slow cooking process allows the steak to absorb all the rich flavors of the gravy, creating a tender, flavorful dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 1: Add Beef Broth and Gravy Mix
Pour the beef broth over the cube steak, ensuring that the meat is mostly submerged. Add the brown gravy mix to the broth and stir to combine. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a combination of beef broth and water.
Step 2: Set Your Crock Pot
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. During this time, the steak will become incredibly tender, and the gravy will thicken, coating the meat with a deliciously savory sauce.
Step 3: Stir Occasionally
Every few hours, give the crock pot a stir to help distribute the gravy evenly. This will ensure that the flavors meld together beautifully and the cube steak remains moist and flavorful.
Thickening Your Gravy to Perfection
Sometimes, the gravy may turn out a bit thin. If you prefer a thicker consistency, don’t worry—it’s an easy fix!
Step 1: Make a Cornstarch Slurry
To thicken the gravy, mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir until smooth. Once your gravy has finished cooking, pour the slurry into the crock pot and stir well.
Step 2: Let it Simmer
Continue cooking on low for another 30 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken to your desired consistency. If you prefer an even thicker gravy, you can double the amount of cornstarch slurry.
Serving Your Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
Once your crock pot cube steak and gravy is ready, it’s time to serve up this comforting dish. The savory gravy pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes, allowing you to create a well-rounded meal.
Mashed Potatoes
One of the best ways to serve crock pot cube steak and gravy is with creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes soak up the gravy, creating a delicious combination of flavors. You can make your mashed potatoes from scratch or use store-bought mashed potatoes for a quick and easy side dish.
Rice
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, rice is an excellent choice. Serve your cube steak and gravy over white, brown, or even pilaf-style rice for a delicious, satisfying meal.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or green beans, pair perfectly with this dish. They add a bit of crunch and freshness to balance out the rich flavors of the cube steak and gravy.
Crusty Bread
For dipping, a warm, crusty loaf of bread is a great addition. You can scoop up the gravy with the bread and enjoy every last drop!
Tips and Tricks for the Best Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy
To make your crock pot cube steak and gravy even better, here are some tips and tricks that will help you achieve perfection every time.
- Use Frozen Cube Steak: If you can’t find fresh cube steak, frozen works just as well. Just be sure to add an extra 30 minutes to your cooking time to account for the frozen meat.
- Add Extra Flavor: For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar to the gravy. A little goes a long way in enhancing the umami.
- Make It Ahead of Time: If you’re planning ahead, this dish can easily be made in advance and reheated. Store the cube steak and gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other cuts of meat for this recipe?
Yes! While cube steak is the traditional choice for this dish, you can substitute it with other cuts like round steak, chuck roast, or even pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat you choose.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Let the cube steak and gravy cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, opt for a gluten-free gravy mix and use potato starch instead of cornstarch to thicken the gravy.
Conclusion
Crock pot cube steak and gravy is the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to prepare and full of rich flavors. With just a few key ingredients, you can create a meal that’s tender, savory, and sure to satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, this recipe is easy to follow and yields delicious results every time. So why wait? Grab your crock pot and give this dish a try—you won’t regret it!
Call to Action: Ready to make your own crock pot cube steak and gravy? Gather your ingredients and get started! Don’t forget to share your delicious results with us in the comments below or on social media. We’d love to hear how your meal turned out!