If you’re craving a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth dinner that practically makes itself, look no further than the Best Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe. This hearty classic transforms simple cube steaks into tender, flavorful bites bathed in a rich, savory mushroom-onion gravy. With just a handful of pantry staples and a slow cooker doing most of the work, this dish will quickly become your go-to for weeknights or cozy weekend meals. The way the meat softens to perfect tenderness while soaking up all those incredible flavors is nothing short of magic, making it an absolute favorite to share with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward ingredients that work beautifully together. Each component is essential, from the savory onion soup mix that layers flavor to the cream of mushroom soup that gives the gravy its luscious texture. These simple elements combine to create a dish that tastes like it took hours of effort, without any complicated prep.
- 4 cube steaks: The star of the dish, these tenderized cuts cook beautifully low and slow, absorbing all the flavors.
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sweet and aromatic base that caramelizes gently during cooking.
- 1 packet onion soup mix: A flavor booster that infuses the meat and gravy with savory richness.
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Creates a creamy, velvety sauce that coats the steak perfectly.
- 1 cup beef broth: Provides depth and moisture, helping develop a flavorful, silky gravy.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds an umami punch and subtle tang that elevates the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Offers a touch of warm, fragrant seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a mild peppery kick without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening): Great for those who prefer a thicker gravy to cling to their steak.
- 1 tablespoon water (optional, for slurry): Used to dissolve cornstarch evenly for smooth thickening.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish): Brings a vibrant pop of color and freshness to finish the plate beautifully.
How to Make Best Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Steaks
Begin by patting your cube steaks dry with a paper towel; this step is crucial to help the seasonings stick and to avoid sogginess. Season both sides generously with garlic powder and black pepper, making sure each piece is evenly coated. This simple seasoning lays the flavorful foundation before slow cooking brings everything together.
Step 2: Optional Sear for Extra Flavor
If you have the time and want to deepen the flavor, take a moment to sear the steaks briefly in a hot skillet. Browned edges bring a wonderful caramelized taste and texture that enhances the overall dish. While optional, this step adds a lovely richness that’s worth the extra effort.
Step 3: Layer Onions and Steaks in the Slow Cooker
Place the thinly sliced onions in the bottom of your crock pot, spreading them evenly. Then, carefully layer the cube steaks on top, allowing their juices to mingle with the onions throughout the slow-cooking process. This layering technique ensures the onions soften beautifully and infuse the meat with sweetness.
Step 4: Mix and Pour the Savory Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and uniform. Pour this luscious mixture over the steaks and onions in the slow cooker, making sure everything is nicely coated. This sauce will transform while cooking, turning into a rich gravy that ties all the flavors together.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover your crock pot and set it to cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or HIGH for about 4 to 5 hours. The slow cooking process gently breaks down the cube steaks, resulting in unbelievably tender meat. The onions and sauce develop into a hearty base that’s bursting with flavor. Patience here is key—the end result is well worth the wait!
Step 6: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you prefer your gravy a bit more substantial, remove the steaks carefully from the slow cooker once done. Mix the tablespoon of cornstarch with water to create a smooth slurry, then stir it into the hot cooking liquid. Return the steaks to the pot and let the gravy thicken for a few minutes, bathing the meat in a richer sauce.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Best Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe is now ready to be shared! Ladle the tender steaks and creamy gravy onto plates, and get ready for some serious deliciousness.
How to Serve Best Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only adds a beautiful burst of green but also a subtle fresh flavor that brightens the richness of the gravy. Feel free to add a few cracked black pepper flakes on top for an extra touch of spice and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This meal pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles—the perfect mediums to soak up that luscious gravy. For a lighter side, steamed green beans or roasted asparagus add just the right amount of crunch and freshness, balancing the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the cube steaks stacked slightly atop a bed of mashed potatoes, then drizzle with gravy and garnish with parsley. You can also place the steaks over a nest of buttery noodles or hearty rice pilaf for a comforting twist. Adding a side of crusty bread completes the experience, inviting everyone to savor every last drop of sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cube steak is fantastic when stored properly. Place cooled leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making next-day meals even more delicious and convenient for busy schedules.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the cube steak and gravy into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently.
Reheating
Reheat leftover cube steak on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the gravy. Stir gently until warmed through, being careful not to overcook to maintain tenderness. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, stirring occasionally for even heat distribution.
FAQs
Can I skip searing the cube steaks?
Absolutely! Searing adds flavor but isn’t necessary. The slow cooker will tenderize the steaks perfectly on its own, making this a super easy weeknight meal.
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of cream of mushroom soup?
Yes, though you’ll need to adjust the recipe by adding a thickener and additional seasoning. Cream of mushroom soup offers both creaminess and flavor in one convenient package, but fresh mushrooms can add great texture for a more homemade gravy.
What if I don’t have onion soup mix?
You can substitute with a blend of dry onion flakes, beef bouillon, and a little garlic powder for a similar effect. It won’t be exactly the same, but your dish will still be delicious.
How do I know when the cube steaks are done?
Cube steaks are ready when they’re tender and easily pulled apart with a fork after slow cooking. The long cook time at a low setting ensures they become beautifully soft.
Can this recipe be made in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the sauté function to brown the meat if you like, then pressure cook on high for about 35 minutes with a natural release. Just keep an eye on the thickness of the gravy afterward, and adjust with cornstarch slurry if needed.
Final Thoughts
You’ve just discovered a true gem with the Best Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe, a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding family or entertaining friends, this recipe promises tender meat and rich gravy that warm the heart and satisfy the soul. Trust me, once you make it, this slow cooker classic will be a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and prepare to fall in love!
Print
Best Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Best Crock Pot Cube Steak recipe delivers tender, flavorful cube steaks slow-cooked to perfection with a savory mushroom onion gravy. Ideal for an easy, comforting meal, it requires minimal prep and cooks all day in your slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weekdays or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat
- 4 cube steaks
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
Sauce & Seasonings
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Thickening (Optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Steaks: Pat the cube steaks dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. Season both sides generously with garlic powder and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Optional Searing: For added depth of flavor, sear the steaks in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side before slow cooking, creating a nice crust.
- Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the thinly sliced onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. Layer the seasoned cube steaks on top of the onions evenly.
- Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the cube steaks and onions in the slow cooker.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 4 to 5 hours, until steaks are tender and cooked through.
- Thicken Gravy (Optional): If a thicker gravy is desired, carefully remove the steaks from the slow cooker. Mix cornstarch and water to form a slurry, then stir it into the hot gravy. Return steaks to the pot to soak in the thickened gravy for a few minutes.
- Serve: Serve the cube steaks hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Accompany with creamy mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a complete, comforting meal.
Notes
- Searing the cube steaks before slow cooking is optional but adds extra flavor and texture.
- Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker—some models run hotter than others.
- The gravy can be thickened with cornstarch slurry if you prefer a richer sauce.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stove or microwave.
- Feel free to add mushrooms or other vegetables to the slow cooker for variation.
