Crock Pot Cube Steak: A Delicious and Tender Recipe

Introduction

Are you looking for a mouthwatering and easy-to-make dish that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than crock pot cube steak! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when you want a hearty and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. In this article, we will guide you through the ingredients, steps, variations, tips, and FAQs to ensure your crock pot cube steak turns out tender and delicious every time.

Ingredients

For the steak:

• 2 pounds of cube steak
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika
• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

For the gravy:

• 2 cups of beef broth
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup of Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup of soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons of cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons of water

Steps

Step 1: Prepare the steak

In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Dredge each piece of cube steak in the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides evenly.

Step 2: Sear the steak

Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the coated cube steaks and sear them for about 2 minutes on each side until they are browned. This step will help seal in the juices and add a nice crust to the steak.

Step 3: Prepare the crock pot

Transfer the seared cube steaks to your crock pot. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the steaks.

Step 4: Make the gravy

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, cornstarch, and water until well combined. Pour the gravy mixture over the cube steaks in the crock pot.

Step 5: Slow cook the steak

Cover the crock pot and cook the cube steak on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time will result in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Variations

While this crock pot cube steak recipe is delicious as is, you can always switch it up and add your own personal touch. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Mushroom Gravy

Add sliced mushrooms to the crock pot along with the onions and garlic. The earthy flavor of mushrooms pairs perfectly with the savory cube steak.

2. Spicy Kick

If you enjoy a little heat, spice up your cube steak by adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the gravy mixture. Adjust the amount according to your preference.

3. Fresh Herbs

Add a burst of freshness by sprinkling chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme, over the cooked cube steak before serving. The herbs will add a pop of color and enhance the overall flavor.

Tips

Follow these tips to ensure your crock pot cube steak turns out tender and full of flavor:

1. Quality of Cube Steak

Choose high-quality cube steak for the best results. Look for meat that is well-marbled and tender. Avoid cube steak that appears tough or has a lot of connective tissue.

2. Browning the Steak

Take the time to sear the cube steak before transferring it to the crock pot. This step helps develop a rich flavor and texture in the final dish.

3. Adjust Cooking Time

Every crock pot is different, so adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you prefer your steak more tender, cook it for a longer period of time. Keep an eye on the steak to avoid overcooking and drying it out.

4. Thickening the Gravy

If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix an additional tablespoon of cornstarch with water and add it to the crock pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. This will help thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Crock pot cube steak is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will satisfy your cravings for a hearty meal. The tender and flavorful steak, combined with the savory gravy, makes this recipe a family favorite. With a few simple steps and some patience, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right in the comfort of your own home. So, grab your crock pot and give this recipe a try!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?

A: While cube steak is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can experiment with other cuts of beef, such as round steak or sirloin steak. Keep in mind that different cuts may require adjustments in cooking time to achieve the desired tenderness.

Q: Can I prepare the cube steak ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can coat the cube steak in the flour mixture and sear it in advance. Store the seared steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer the steaks to the crock pot and continue with the recipe.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Absolutely! Allow the cooked cube steak to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bags. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What should I serve with crock pot cube steak?

A: Crock pot cube steak pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Now that you have all the information you need, it’s time to gather the ingredients and start cooking. Enjoy your crock pot cube steak and savor the tender and flavorful results!