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Slow Cooker Cube Steak has saved many a busy weeknight at my house The simple prep and melt in your mouth meat make it the kind of meal I turn to when time is tight but comfort food is needed You just layer ingredients and let the slow cooker work its magic returning hours later to tender steaks and a rich flavorful gravy
What Makes It Special
- Uses just a handful of affordable ingredients from the grocery store
- Almost entirely hands off after a few minutes of prep time
- Produces fork tender steaks and savory gravy every time
- Perfect for feeding a family or easy batch cooking
The first time I made this was on a cold fall Sunday the smell from the slow cooker had everyone heading into the kitchen by mid afternoon Now it is a go to when I want something hearty without any fuss
What You Will Need
- Cube steaks: Opt for steaks with even thickness so they cook uniformly Look for a deep red color for freshness
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth in the slow simmer Always choose onions that feel heavy for their size
- Sliced mushrooms: They bring earthiness to the dish Wipe mushrooms clean and slice just before cooking for best texture
- Beef bone broth or stock: Delivers rich beef flavor I recommend low sodium varieties so you can control the salt in the dish
- Tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and adds subtle sweetness Buy tomato paste in a tube if you will need just a tablespoon or two
- Worcestershire sauce: Bumps up the umami and color Always shake the bottle well before using
- Herb and garlic seasoning: If homemade make sure to use dried herbs for best potency
- Paprika: Adds a gentle smoky note Use fresh paprika for the brightest flavor
- Cornstarch: Turns the cooking liquid into gravy Use a fresh box to ensure it dissolves easily
Let’s Cook This Together
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Start by laying cube steaks flat on the bottom of your slow cooker then scatter diced onions and sliced mushrooms evenly over the top This layering is the key to building flavor right from the start
- Mix the Gravy Base:
- In a bowl whisk together beef bone broth tomato paste Worcestershire sauce herb and garlic seasoning and paprika until completely smooth This step delivers even seasoning to every bite Pour the mixture over the steaks and vegetables in the slow cooker
- Let it Cook Low and Slow:
- Cover with the lid and set your slow cooker High for three to four hours gives you quicker results but Low for six to eight hours results in even more tender meat Either choice works well so go with what fits your day
- Thicken the Gravy:
- About an hour before your cook time ends whisk cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to make a smooth slurry Stir this into the cooking liquid Replace the lid and let it thicken while everything finishes up
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Carefully remove steaks to a plate and spoon mushroom onion gravy over the top Serve hot with sides like mashed potatoes rice or buttered noodles The aroma alone brings everyone to the table
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Good to Know
- Makes amazing leftovers for busy nights
- Perfect for meal prep and freezer storage
- High in protein and surprisingly filling
Cube steak is one of those cuts I loved as a kid My favorite thing is the way slow cooking turns tough meat completely tender My family always fights over the last spoonful of gravy to go with their mashed potatoes
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Keeping It Fresh
Let leftover steaks cool to room temperature before packing into airtight containers The gravy will thicken as it cools so add a splash of beef broth while reheating if needed Store in the fridge no longer than three days For freezer storage make sure everything is completely cooled first to prevent ice crystals
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you do not have mushrooms try thinly sliced bell peppers or even zucchini for a different but still delicious twist No Worcestershire sauce Swap in a splash of balsamic vinegar for tang and depth If you are out of onion use shallots or a few cloves of garlic minced finely
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How to Serve It Right
This dish shines with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or steamed green beans You can also spoon the rich gravy over egg noodles for a cozy one bowl meal For something lighter serve the steaks with roasted seasonal vegetables and a crisp side salad
Behind the Dish
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Cube steak has always been known as a budget cut in my family but I learned early that a slow cooker transforms it entirely What was once tough becomes silky and unforgettable It is always a hit when friends join us for supper and there is just something nostalgic about classic gravy dinners
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I prevent the steak from becoming tough?
Make sure to cook the steak low and slow, either on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours. Overcooking can lead to dryness, but gentle simmering ensures tenderness.
- → Can I use a different cut of beef?
You can substitute with round steak or similar cuts, but cooking times may need slight adjustments due to thickness or marbling differences.
- → What size slow cooker should I use?
A 5-quart slow cooker works best for this amount, especially if you’re preparing a full batch. For smaller cookers, reduce ingredient quantities accordingly.
- → How do I thicken the gravy?
Mix cornstarch with equal parts water to form a slurry. Add this about an hour before the end of cooking, then stir and let the sauce thicken as it heats.
- → How should leftovers be stored and reheated?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave on a low setting.
- → Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Carrots, celery, or bell peppers are delicious additions and will cook to a perfect tenderness alongside the steak.