Delicious Cube Steak and Gravy: Easy Slow Cooker Recipe

Slow-cooked meals bring warmth and comfort. I remember chilly evenings in the kitchen with my family. The smell of cube steak and gravy filled the air, making everyone excited for dinner.

Cube steak is not just affordable; it’s a symbol of delicious comfort food. I’ve mastered this easy recipe in my slow cooker. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. It satisfies my hunger and warms my heart.

Let’s dive into making a mouthwatering dish for any occasion. It’s a journey of flavors and memories.

What is Cube Steak and Gravy?

Cube steak and gravy is a comforting dish that shows off the meat’s versatility. Knowing what cube steak is and how gravy enhances it makes the recipe even more special.

Understanding Cube Steak

Cube steak comes from the top round or top sirloin of beef. It’s made tender through a special process. This makes it easy to chew and perfect for cooking.

The steaks are pounded thin, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This tenderizing also helps the meat soak up flavors, especially with gravies.

The Role of Gravy in This Dish

The gravy is key to this dish’s success. It adds moisture and boosts the flavor of the tender cube steak. A mix of beef broth, cream of soup, and brown gravy mix makes the sauce rich and creamy.

Flour helps create a crispy crust on the steak. This crust is the base for the thickening gravy. Cooking it in a slow cooker blends the flavors, making a delicious meal.

The Perfect Cut of Meat

Choosing the right cut of meat is key for a tasty cube steak and gravy. Cube steak is affordable and tender when cooked right. This recipe shows how it turns tough into tender, flavorful meat.

Why Choose Cube Steak?

Cube steak is tenderized, making it perfect for a comforting meal at a good price. It’s a classic southern dish that cooks quickly and becomes tender. Using flour keeps it juicy, and a cast iron skillet ensures even cooking.

Additional Cuts You Can Use

If you can’t find cube steak, try chuck roast or pork chops. They work well and keep the dish moist and flavorful. This recipe is great with cube steak or other cuts, offering a satisfying meal.

Essential Ingredients for the Recipe

Starting with the right ingredients is key to making a tasty homemade gravy and an easy cube steak recipe. These core elements will make your dish more flavorful and satisfying. It will make meal time a joy.

Common Ingredients for Cube Steak and Gravy

The following ingredients are the heart of a delicious cube steak and homemade gravy:

• 4 cube steaks
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons olive or vegetable oil
• 1 onion, cut into strips
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 15 ounces beef broth
• 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cups cooked rice (for serving)

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

I love to add a personal touch to my cooking. Here are some optional add-ins to boost your cube steak dish’s flavor:

• Minced garlic for a robust taste
• Chopped bell peppers for a pop of color and crunch
• Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for aromatic notes
• Sliced zucchini for added texture and nutrition

How to Prepare Your Cube Steak

Preparing a tender cube steak is key for a great taste and texture. A few simple steps can make each bite tender. Seasoning is also vital, as it brings out the meat’s flavors. Here’s how to tenderize and season your steak.

Tenderizing Techniques

Use a meat mallet to gently pound the steak. This breaks down tough fibers, making it softer. Cube steak is already tender, but tenderizing it makes it even better. Try marinating it in buttermilk or vinegar and spices for a few hours to add extra tenderness.

Seasoning Your Steak

Choosing the right seasonings can make your cube steak recipe delicious. Start with salt and pepper to enhance the natural taste. Add garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for more flavor. Season the steak at least 30 minutes before cooking to let the flavors soak in.

By following these tips, you’ll get a tender cube steak that’s perfect with gravies and sides. With proper preparation, you’ll have a meal that everyone will love.

Slow Cooker Preparation Steps

Getting your ingredients ready is key to making delicious cube steak and gravy. Good preparation means flavors blend well and the dish is tender and tasty. Let’s start!

Gathering Your Ingredients

For a great slow cooker dish, have everything ready before you start. Here’s what you need:

• 2 pounds of cube steak (about 8 pieces)
• 1/4 cup cooking oil
• 1 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (plus more for seasoning)
• 1/4 teaspoon cracked black pepper (plus more for seasoning)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1/2 package (1 ounce) dry onion soup mix
• 10.5 ounces condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 2 tablespoons flour (for thickening gravy)
• 1/4 cup cold water (for thickening gravy)

Layering for Best Results

Layering your ingredients in the slow cooker helps with cooking. Start with the cube steaks at the bottom for a flavorful base. Then add the dry onion soup mix and mushroom soup, spreading it over the meat.

Pour the beef stock over the top to cover everything. This method ensures even cooking and maximizes flavor in your cube steak and gravy.

Let the stew cook for 6 to 8 hours on low. This makes the meat tender and the flavors rich, creating a comforting meal for any day.

Cooking Time and Temperature

Creating a perfect cube steak recipe in a slow cooker requires the right cooking time and temperature. The correct slow cooker settings enhance flavors and make the meat tender. This is key to a delicious dish.

Optimal Settings for Slow Cookers

I set my slow cooker to low heat for about 8 hours for the best results. If you’re short on time, high heat for 4 to 5 hours works too. The longer it cooks, the more flavors the meat absorbs and the tenderer it becomes.

Signs Your Dish is Ready

Knowing when your dish is ready is crucial. Look for the meat to be fork-tender and the gravy thick. If it’s not tender, cook for another 20 to 30 minutes. This patience makes the meal a hit with everyone.

Serving Suggestions

When you enjoy juicy cube steak and gravy, think about what to serve with it. The right sides can make your meal even better. They should mix flavors and textures well. Let’s look at some great sides to go with this tasty dish.

Best Sides to Pair with Cube Steak

Choosing the best sides can really bring out the flavors of cube steak. Here are some top picks:

• Mashed Potatoes – They’re creamy and soak up the gravy well.
• Buttered Noodles – A light choice that pairs well with the steak.
• Roasted Green Beans – They add a crisp texture and fresh taste.
• Rice Pilaf – It’s fluffy and absorbs sauce, making the dish taste better.
• Garden Salad – It brings a refreshing crunch to balance the steak’s richness.

Garnishing Tips for Visual Appeal

Adding garnishes can make your plate look amazing. Here are some tips:

• Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
• Chives – They contrast nicely and add a subtle onion flavor.
• Shredded Cheese – A light dusting of cheese adds flavor and richness.

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying a delicious meal of cube steak and gravy, I often have leftovers. I want to preserve them for future enjoyment. Storing leftovers properly ensures that I can savor this dish later without compromising taste or safety.

Proper Storage Techniques

First, I let the cube steak and gravy cool to room temperature. Then, I place them in an airtight container. This step is essential for preventing moisture buildup and keeping the dish fresh.

Properly stored, the leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If I plan to keep them longer, freezing is a great option. The dish can be frozen for up to 3 months when appropriately sealed.

When I’m ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating in the oven at 350°F works best. It preserves the flavors and texture.

Creative Ways to Use Leftovers

Turning leftover cube steak and gravy into exciting new meals is an enjoyable challenge. Here are some of my favorite ideas:

• Make a hearty sandwich by layering the steak on crusty bread with some sautéed onions and a slice of cheese.
• Add the steak to a rich beef soup, creating a delicious broth with additional vegetables.
• Use the steak to top a salad, giving it a protein boost that makes the meal more filling.
• Mix the gravy with cooked noodles for a comforting pasta dish.

These creative recipes allow me to minimize waste while still enjoying the delicious flavors of cube steak and gravy. Embracing these techniques for storing leftovers opens up endless possibilities in the kitchen.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

Trying out different versions of the cube steak and gravy recipe makes it exciting. It lets me add new flavors and cooking methods. This way, I can please everyone’s taste buds and dietary needs. There are countless ways to make this southern favorite even better.

Southern-Inspired Twist

To give my cube steak a southern twist, I add hot sauce or sautéed bell peppers and onions. These ingredients make the dish richer and more flavorful. Serving it with cornbread is a classic southern touch. It turns a simple meal into a memorable one.

Healthier Alternatives

For a healthier take, I use lower-calorie soups in the gravy. Adding more veggies like carrots and peas boosts the nutrition. These tweaks let me enjoy cube steak in a healthier way without losing flavor.

Final Tips for the Best Cube Steak and Gravy

Before you serve your cube steak and gravy, keep these tips in mind. Overcooking the meat is a common mistake that makes it dry. Slow cooking the steak for 6 to 8 hours keeps it tender and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check if it’s done right.

Seasoning is key, but don’t under-season. Use plenty of spices and add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, or garlic powder. Letting the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors mix well.

Choose the best ingredients for a great meal. Even with affordable cube steak, using fresh mushrooms, homemade broth, and good olive oil makes a big difference. Following these tips will make your dish a comforting favorite for all.