You know how it is – the week is a whirlwind of responsibilities, deadlines looming, and the day’s end often finds you longing for a warm, comforting meal that doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen. Indeed, sometimes, after all that, you just want something that fills you up and brings a sense of calm to your day. Consequently, therefore, that’s where the magic of a slow cooker comes in, and thus, today, we are going to talk about a particular culinary gem: slow cooker cube steak. This is a dish that’s as easy on your budget as it is on your precious time, and furthermore, more importantly, it delivers an abundance of flavor with minimal effort on your part. Cube steak is an underrated kitchen staple, perfect for the slow cooker’s gentle touch, and in this article, specifically, therefore, we’re here to show you how to make the most of it.
What is Cube Steak and Why It’s Perfect for Slow Cooking?
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s understand what cube steak is and, more importantly, most significantly, why it’s the perfect candidate for slow cooking. Unlike fancier cuts of beef, cube steak isn’t about premium quality; instead, rather, it’s all about practicality and adaptability. Cube steak is typically a less expensive cut, like top round or sirloin, that has been run through a mechanical tenderizer. This process, in particular, significantly, which gives the meat its distinctive “cubed” appearance, breaks down the muscle fibers, making it naturally more tender.
This pre-tenderized characteristic makes cube steak exceptionally well-suited for slow cooking. The slow cooker’s low, consistent heat works wonders, further, consistently, tenderizing the meat and allowing it to soak up all the wonderful flavors you’re adding to your dish. Ultimately, as a result, what you will end up with is meat so tender it practically melts in your mouth. And the best part? Cube steak is budget-friendly and easily available in most grocery stores, making it an accessible option for everyday meals. Thus, therefore, when you combine that with the hands-off approach of a slow cooker, then, quite naturally, invariably, it’s a winning recipe for a fuss-free, delicious dinner.
If you’re curious about achieving the perfect texture, check out our tips on how to tenderize cube steak for extra insights.
Mastering the Art of Slow Cooker Cube Steak: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now, let’s get to the heart of it: how to make mouthwatering slow cooker cube steak. The process is remarkably simple, and with a few easy steps, you will soon be, undoubtedly, enjoying a delightful meal.
Optional Searing for Enhanced Flavor
The first step, which is optional but highly recommended, is to quickly sear the cube steak. While, although, not mandatory, this brief searing will significantly elevate the flavor of your dish. Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once, when, the oil shimmers, place the cube steak in the pan, taking care not to overcrowd it. Sear the meat for about a minute or two per side, just enough to develop a nice brown crust. Indeed, in fact, this process, known as the Maillard reaction, creates a rich, complex flavor that will permeate throughout your dish as it slow cooks.
Layering Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Next, following this, it’s time to layer everything in your slow cooker. If you’ve seared your steak, place it at the bottom of the slow cooker. Alternatively, or rather, if not, no problem, place the cube steak directly into the slow cooker. Now, at this point, it’s time for flavor, right? Add chopped onions and minced garlic, scattering them evenly over the meat. These aromatic ingredients, in turn, consequently, will infuse their essence into the dish as it cooks.
Adding Broth, Flour, and Seasoning
Pour in about two cups of beef broth, ensuring the steak is mostly submerged. Following this step, subsequently, add two tablespoons of all-purpose flour to thicken the gravy. Sprinkle over dried thyme. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
The Importance of Slow and Low Cooking
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Importantly, crucially, low heat is your best friend here. Allow the slow cooker to work its magic for about 6 to 8 hours. Remember, above all, though slow cooking is a patient process, the low temperature is essential for that perfect tender outcome. The slow, gentle heat allows all the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender.
Checking for Doneness and Adjusting Seasoning
Once, after, the cooking time is up, use a meat thermometer to ensure your cube steak has reached a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You’ll find that the meat practically falls apart with a gentle nudge of a fork. Taste the sauce. If, by any chance, should you feel, needed, add additional salt and pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Basic Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe
Here, then, is a quick summary of our basic recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount |
| Cube Steak | 1-1.5 lbs |
| Vegetable Oil | 1 tbsp |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Beef Broth | 2 cups |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tbsp |
| Dried Thyme | 1 tsp |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black Pepper | to taste |
Instructions:
- First, to begin with, if desired, sear the cube steak in vegetable oil for 1-2 minutes per side in a skillet.
- Then, next, place the seared (or unseared) cube steak in the slow cooker.
- Next, after that, add chopped onions and minced garlic.
- Following that step, subsequently, pour in beef broth.
- After that, then, sprinkle flour, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Finally, at last, cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is very tender.
- Serve and enjoy!
Ingredient Variations and Tips
Part of the joy of slow cooking is the chance to adapt recipes to your specific preferences. Therefore, thus, consider these ideas for making your slow cooker cube steak even more amazing:
- Spices: Don’t feel limited to just thyme; instead, rather, experiment with other dried herbs like rosemary, or even, perhaps, a dash of paprika for a touch of warmth. You can also try adding a pinch of cayenne for a slight kick.
- Broth: Feel free to use vegetable or chicken stock as an alternative to beef broth, depending on what you have on hand. The flavor profile will change slightly, but, overall, nonetheless, it will still be delicious.
- Vegetables: For instance, for example, for a more substantial meal, consider adding vegetables such as sliced carrots and celery. Add them along with the onions and garlic to the slow cooker. In this way, naturally, they will cook to perfection in the sauce and add extra flavor.
- Thickening the Sauce: If, for any reason, whatsoever, the sauce is too thin for your preference, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking, and as a result, consequently, it will thicken nicely.
- Preventing Dryness: To keep the meat from drying out, ensure that the liquid mostly covers the cube steak during cooking. If, in some case, should it occur, needed, add a splash of broth halfway through the cooking time to keep it moist.
Delicious Variations: Beyond the Basic Slow Cooker Cube Steak
Once, after, you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you will discover a whole new world of delicious possibilities. To that end, therefore, here are a few variations to spark your culinary creativity:
- Mushroom and Onion Gravy: For this variation, sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions before adding them to the slow cooker. This will create a richer, earthy gravy that beautifully complements the beef.
- Smothered Cube Steak with Vegetables: Add diced carrots and celery to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic. This creates a classic “smothered” effect, where the vegetables add more depth and texture to the dish. You might even, perhaps, consider adding some sliced bell peppers, as well, too.
- Creamy Cube Steak: After the cube steak is cooked, stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche for extra richness. This will transform the dish into a truly decadent experience. You can also, furthermore, add a dollop of sour cream just before serving, if you prefer, naturally, of course.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorite flavors and create your own signature slow cooker cube steak recipe.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings for Slow Cooker Cube Steak
Your slow cooker cube steak is now tender, flavorful, and ready to be enjoyed. Therefore, consequently, here are some fantastic serving suggestions that will complement the dish beautifully:
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing, mashed potatoes are a perfect partner for slow cooker cube steak. The creamy potatoes soak up all that delicious gravy.
- Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice is another excellent choice for soaking up the savory gravy. or Italian rice.
- Egg Noodles: If, by chance, should it happen, you want a truly comforting meal, serve your cube steak over a bed of egg noodles.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta is a great gluten-free option that offers a comforting texture and flavor.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Serve your cube steak alongside steamed or roasted green beans, broccoli, or asparagus. This will balance the richness of the meat and add essential nutrients to your meal.
- Side Salad: A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette will provide a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors of the cube steak.
Your slow cooker cube steak is versatile; you can make it the star of a hearty meal, or you can customize it with different side dishes to your liking.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Slow Cooker Cube Steak
It’s quite common to have leftovers, and this recipe is perfect for using up on the following days! So, therefore, here’s how to store and reheat your slow cooker cube steak safely:
- Storage: Allow the cube steak and gravy to cool to room temperature, then, after that, transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the cube steak in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until it’s heated through. Add a splash of broth or water to the pan to prevent it from drying out and to maintain the moisture content.
- Freezing: You can also, as well, freeze your leftover cube steak. Transfer it to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Thus, consequently, properly stored, your leftovers can be just as delicious as the day they were made, making your life easier and more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Cube Steak (FAQ)
Here, specifically, are some frequently asked questions to address any lingering questions you might have about slow cooker cube steak:
- Can I use frozen cube steak in the slow cooker? Yes, you can cook frozen cube steak in a slow cooker. However, although, you may need to increase the cooking time by about 1 to 2 hours, just to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- How long should I cook cube steak in the slow cooker? For the best results, it is best to cook cube steak on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This will ensure the meat is incredibly tender. Alternatively, or rather, if you cook on high, it may be ready in 3-4 hours, but there is a risk of it being less tender than on low heat.
- Can I add vegetables to my slow cooker cube steak? Yes, you absolutely can, and it is a great idea! Add vegetables such as carrots, celery, onions, and bell peppers at the start of cooking. By doing this, naturally, it will create a flavorful, heartier dish.
- What are good side dishes to serve with slow cooker cube steak? Mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, and a side of steamed or roasted vegetables are all excellent choices. A fresh side salad will also, undoubtedly, certainly, complement the richness of the meat.
- Is it necessary to sear the cube steak before slow cooking? Searing the cube steak before slow cooking is optional, but, however, it is highly recommended. Searing enhances the flavor and helps to develop a rich, brown crust on the meat, and ultimately, therefore, adds depth to the dish.
Conclusion
Slow cooker cube steak is a testament to the fact that you can have a delicious, satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. It’s affordable, easy to prepare, and incredibly versatile. You can enjoy tender meat that practically melts in your mouth. Moreover, furthermore, this dish allows you to enjoy a home-cooked meal without being tied to the kitchen.
So, therefore, next time you’re looking for a comforting, budget-friendly meal that requires minimal effort, look no further than your slow cooker and a package of cube steak. This is a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give these recipes a try and discover the magic of slow cooker cube steak for yourself. Now, then, tell me, what will you be adding to yours?