Crock Pot Cubed Steak is like a warm hug on a cold day, enveloping your senses with the comforting aroma of savory beef braising gently in rich gravy. As you walk into your kitchen, the enticing scent dances through the air, promising a meal that will leave you not just fed, but downright delighted.
Picture this: it’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and you’re snuggled up on the couch, flipping through channels like you’re on some sort of epic quest for the perfect show. Suddenly, your stomach growls louder than the TV. That’s when you remember this gem of a recipe. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish transforms ordinary cubed steak into a tender masterpiece that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Crock Pot Cubed Steak recipe is incredibly easy to prepare with minimal cleanup required.
- The rich flavor profile combines tender beef with savory gravy that will make your mouth water.
- Visually appealing with its luscious sauce and hearty texture, it’s sure to impress anyone at the table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or even noodles!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Cubed Steak
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cubed Steak: Choose good quality cubed steak for tenderness; about 2-3 pounds should do depending on your crowd.
- Onion Soup Mix: This adds fantastic flavor without extra fuss; opt for low-sodium if you prefer less salt.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control saltiness while still achieving rich flavor.
- Mushrooms: Fresh or canned mushrooms enhance the dish’s umami; they soak up all those delicious juices during cooking.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and garlic powder are essential; feel free to add any other spices you love!
For optional toppings:
- Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and brightens up the dish just before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crock Pot Cubed Steak
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients so they’re ready for action. This step saves time and prevents any last-minute scrambling through cupboards.
Step 2: Season Your Steak
Generously season both sides of each cubed steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Don’t be shy! You want those flavors to pop.
Step 3: Sear the Steak (Optional)
In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear each piece of cubed steak for about 3 minutes per side until browned. This step adds depth but can be skipped if you’re in a hurry.
Step 4: Layer in the Crock Pot
Place the seared cubed steaks at the bottom of your crock pot. Sprinkle onion soup mix evenly over them followed by mushrooms. Pour beef broth over everything—this is where magic starts to happen!
Step 5: Set It and Forget It
Cover and cook on low for about 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. Go binge-watch your favorite show while dinner cooks itself!
Step 6: Serve with Style
Once cooked to perfection (your house will smell heavenly), transfer steak to plates or a large serving dish. Drizzle some of that luscious gravy over it and top with fresh parsley.
And there you have it! Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every bite as you sink into that couch once again—now fully fueled for whatever Netflix throws your way!
You Must Know
- This delightful crock pot cubed steak recipe is not just about tender meat; it brings effortless dinner solutions.
- Customize your ingredients based on preferences or pantry stock.
- The aroma alone will have everyone eagerly waiting at the table for dinner time!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve tender, flavorful crock pot cubed steak, start by searing the steak for that extra depth of flavor. While it’s browning, chop your veggies and prepare the broth to streamline the cooking process.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this dish with different seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika. Swap out the vegetables according to what’s in season or what you adore—mushrooms are a fantastic addition!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover crock pot cubed steak in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth to retain moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your crock pot cubed steak turns out perfectly every time, remember these expert tips: first, don’t skip the searing; it adds flavor.
- Second, let it cook low and slow for ultimate tenderness.
- Lastly, taste as you go; seasoning is key!
After trying this recipe for a family gathering, my uncle declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” I think he may have been overly excited about dinner, but hey, I’ll take it!
FAQs :
What is Crock Pot Cubed Steak?
Crock Pot cubed steak is a delicious and hearty dish made from tenderized cuts of beef, typically chuck or round steak. The cubed steak is slow-cooked in a Crock Pot with a variety of flavorful ingredients, such as onions, mushrooms, and gravy. This method allows the meat to become incredibly tender and absorb all the rich flavors over several hours. It’s a comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Cubed Steak?
Cooking Crock Pot cubed steak usually takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the meat to become very tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Monitoring your cooking time ensures that you achieve the desired texture while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.
Can I use other meats instead of cubed steak?
Yes, you can substitute other cuts of beef like chuck roast or round steak for this recipe. However, it’s important to adjust cooking times accordingly. If you opt for leaner cuts, they may require less cooking time to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can experiment with pork or chicken for variations on this classic dish while maintaining similar cooking methods.
What should I serve with Crock Pot Cubed Steak?
Crock Pot cubed steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Mashed potatoes are a classic choice because they soak up the savory gravy well. You can also serve it with rice, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A fresh salad can add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Conclusion for Crock Pot Cubed Steak :
Crock Pot cubed steak offers an easy and flavorful way to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort. By using simple ingredients and letting your slow cooker do the work, you can create a dish that pleases everyone at the table. Remember that this recipe allows for versatility in terms of side dishes and proteins. Try making it your own by experimenting with different flavors and accompaniments for delightful results.
Crock Pot Cubed Steak
Crock Pot Cubed Steak is a comforting, hassle-free dish that transforms tender beef into a savory delight simmered in rich gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. As it slowly cooks, your kitchen fills with mouth-watering aromas, making it an ideal meal for cozy days at home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 33 minute
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 pounds cubed steak
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients for efficiency.
- Season both sides of the cubed steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- (Optional) In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the steak for about 3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Place the cubed steaks in the crock pot, sprinkle onion soup mix and mushrooms on top, then pour beef broth over everything.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Serve hot, drizzled with gravy and garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For added depth of flavor, do not skip the searing step before adding to the crock pot. - Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
