Every time I make Crock Pot Cube Steak, I am transported back to my childhood kitchen, where my mother would prepare hearty meals that filled the house with love and warmth. The aroma drifting through the air was like a cozy blanket, wrapping around me as I waited eagerly at the table. This recipe is not just about the delicious, tender meat; it’s about family bonds, shared stories, and the joy of coming together over a lovingly prepared meal. I know you’ll feel the same warmth and comfort once you try this recipe, just like I do every time I prepare it for my own family!
Family gatherings were always special occasions filled with laughter and chatter. The centerpiece of those dinners was often a dish that my mom made effortlessly, and that is exactly what this Crock Pot Cube Steak means to me. It’s simple to prepare, but the flavors that develop during the slow cooking process are nothing short of extraordinary. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious meal so that you can create your own beautiful memories.
How to Make Crock Pot Cube Steak
Ingredients
It’s essential to have the right ingredients on hand to ensure your meal comes out perfect every time. Here’s what you will need:
Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Cube steaks | 4 pieces |
Onion, sliced | 1 large |
Cream of mushroom soup | 1 can (10.5 oz) |
Beef broth | 1 cup |
Salt and pepper | To taste |
Optional: garlic powder | To taste |
Optional: onion powder | To taste |
Personal note: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme if I have them on hand—it makes the dish fragrant and even more heavenly!
Cooking Steps
1. Season the Steaks
Start by grabbing your cube steaks. Season them generously with salt and pepper. If you want to jazz it up a bit, sprinkle some garlic powder and onion powder on both sides. Trust me, this step is essential for that extra layer of flavor!
2. Prepare the Onions
While your steaks are resting, slice up that large onion. You want your onion slices to be relatively thin, as they will caramelize beautifully during cooking, adding a sweet flavor to the dish.
3. Layer the Ingredients
In your trusty Crock Pot, begin by placing the sliced onions at the bottom. This will act as a lovely bed for your steaks. Then, lay the seasoned cube steaks right on top of the onions, making sure they’re positioned evenly.
4. Mix the Soups
In a separate bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth. Give it a good stir until it’s fully mixed together. This mixture will create a rich, savory gravy that permeates the meat during cooking.
5. Pour the Mixture
Take the soup and broth mixture, and gently pour it over the cube steaks. Make sure to cover the meat completely; this will help keep it moist and flavorful as it cooks.
6. Cover and Cook
Place the lid on your Crock Pot, and set it to cook. You can choose to cook it on low for about 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 3 to 4 hours. The longer, the better—this will allow your steaks to become incredibly tender.
7. Stir Occasionally
If you have the time, I recommend stirring everything gently halfway through cooking. This way, you can ensure that all the flavors are distributed properly. Plus, it helps keep those onions from burning.
8. Check for Tenderness
After the cooking time is up, peek inside your Crock Pot. The steak should be fork-tender, basically falling apart when you try to lift it out. This is how you know you’ve hit the jackpot!
9. Serve It Up
Once your cube steak is done, it’s time to serve! You can scoop the steak out, along with all that yummy gravy and onions, onto a plate. I like to pair this dish with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up all that delicious gravy!
Why I Love Making This Dish
This Crock Pot Cube Steak dish holds a special place in my heart because of its simplicity and the comfort it brings. Whenever I make it, I am reminded of family dinners where we would all sit around the table, swapping stories and sharing laughter. I love how this meal brings everyone together, no matter how busy life gets. Plus, the fact that it’s a one-pot dish means less cleanup, which is always a bonus!
What You’ll Need
To make this recipe, all you need is your beloved Crock Pot, a sturdy spoon for stirring, and measuring cups for your liquids. A cutting board and a good chef’s knife are also essential for slicing your onions and any other veggies you might want to add.
Tips for Perfect Results
Choose Good Quality Meat: I always stress the importance of using good quality cube steak. It makes a world of difference in flavor and tenderness.
Patience is Key: Slow cooking is a beautiful process. Resist the urge to lift the lid too often because every time you do, heat escapes and prolongs cooking.
Adjust Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the seasoning as it cooks. Everyone’s taste buds are different!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
When I serve Crock Pot Cube Steak, I love pairing it with creamy mashed potatoes. The gravy from the steak mixes perfectly with the potatoes, creating a comforting plate of food. You could also serve it with steamed green beans or a simple side salad for a touch of freshness!
Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should last about 3 to 4 days. When you reheat them, make sure to do so slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave to keep everything moist and delicious!
Emotional Engagement: I just know you’re going to appreciate how easy this meal is while enjoying the delightful flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have guests over. When my family devours this dish, they always ask for seconds, and I can’t help but smile knowing I’ve made something they truly enjoy!
FAQ Section
Can I use different cuts of meat?
Yes, you can! While cube steak is traditional for this recipe, you could also use round steak or even chuck roast. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since the texture may vary.Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! I love tossing in some carrots or potatoes for added flavor and nutrients. Just remember that you might need to adjust the liquid a bit if you add extra veggies.What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup instead. It still provides a great base for the gravy!
Conclusion
I hope you’ve enjoyed hearing about my beloved Crock Pot Cube Steak recipe. I truly believe that cooking is an expression of love, and every time I serve this dish, I see smiles around the table. It’s so easy to prepare and oh-so-delicious, making it a perfect option for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself! Your family will be delighted, and I’m sure they’ll be asking for seconds, just like mine always do. Enjoy this recipe, and let me know how it turns out! Happy cooking!