Crock Pot Cubed Steak is the quintessential comfort food that families across America cherish, especially when life gets busy and home-cooked meals bring everyone together around the table.
This recipe is a slow-cooked masterpiece rooted in Southern culinary tradition, combining economic cuts of beef and simple pantry staples to create a savory, melt-in-your-mouth main dish.
Cubed steak, known for its characteristic tenderized texture, is transformed over hours of simmering in a crock pot, absorbing the robust flavors of onions, gravy, and seasonings until it reaches a level of succulence that's simply irresistible.
The beauty of a Crock Pot Cubed Steak lies in not only its mouthwatering taste but also its incredible convenience. With just a few minutes of prep in the morning, you can set your slow cooker and return home to a hearty, satisfying meal.
This dish has a storied history in the South, where it became a staple for families looking to make the most of affordable cuts and stretch grocery budgets while still providing nourishment and comfort. It's a classic example of Southern hospitality and resourcefulness-offering nourishment, flavor, and nostalgia in every bite.
Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just seeking a stress-free weeknight dinner, this Crock Pot Cubed Steak recipe is sure to deliver every time.
Ingredients
- 6 cubed steaks (about 2 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet (1 ounce) onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup
- ¾ cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Start by patting the cubed steaks dry with paper towels. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Dredge each cubed steak in the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly. Shake off any excess flour.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, brown the cubed steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, just until a golden crust forms. Transfer browned steaks to a plate.
- Layer the sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the crock pot. Place the browned cubed steaks on top.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme until well combined.
- Pour the soup mixture over the steaks and onions in the crock pot, ensuring the meat is fully covered.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours, or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the cubed steak is tender and the gravy thickened.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot, spooning generous amounts of gravy over the steaks.
Nutritional Information
Crock Pot Cubed Steak offers a balanced nutritional profile when enjoyed as part of a wholesome meal. Most of the caloric content in this dish comes from the beef, gravies, and soups used in the recipe.
For a serving size based on one-sixth of the recipe, you can expect approximately 370-400 calories, including 28-32 grams of protein, which supports muscle maintenance and satiety.
The dish contains about 17 grams of fat, with less than 7 grams coming from saturated fats, thanks mainly to the leaner nature of cubed steak. The sodium content, influenced by canned soups and broth, ranges from 950-1150 milligrams per serving, so individuals monitoring sodium intake should keep portions moderate.
Carbohydrates are moderate, around 12-14 grams per serving, primarily from the flour used for dredging and the soups' starch content. In addition to protein, Crock Pot Cubed Steak provides essential minerals like iron, which supports healthy red blood cell production, and zinc, important for immune function.
To make the meal more balanced, consider pairing the dish with fiber-rich vegetables and a side of whole grains. By selecting reduced-sodium options or homemade soup alternatives, sodium can be further minimized. Enjoy the rich flavors and hearty texture while keeping nutritional goals in mind for a healthier, well-rounded dinner.
Wine and Beverage Pairings
The rich, savory notes of Crock Pot Cubed Steak pair deliciously with medium-bodied red wines such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. Their supple tannins and berry flavors cut through the creamy gravy and enhance the hearty beef flavor.
If you prefer white wine, an oaked Chardonnay offers body and enough complexity to match the dish's depth. For those who prefer beer, a malty brown ale or porter complements the slow-cooked flavors perfectly.
For a nonalcoholic pairing, robust unsweetened iced tea or a sparkling cranberry juice provides a refreshing palate cleanser. The key is to balance the meal's savory elements with a drink that brings lightness and contrast.
Cooking Tips and Variations
To master the art of making Crock Pot Cubed Steak, a few essential tips and variations can make all the difference in taste and texture.
Always brown the cubed steak before placing it in the slow cooker-this not only seals in the juices but also adds a robust, caramelized flavor base to the final dish.
For a richer gravy, deglaze the skillet with a splash of beef broth after browning and pour those flavorful bits into the crock pot.
While the traditional recipe uses a combination of cream soups, you can experiment by using only one type or substituting with homemade mushroom or onion sauce for a fresher touch. For extra vegetables, add sliced mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers between steak layers for a nutritional boost and added color.
Those who prefer a thicker gravy can whisk in a cornstarch slurry in the last 30 minutes of cooking. For gluten-free needs, opt for gluten-free flour blends and verified gluten-free soups.
If you prefer a lighter dish, replace one can of soup with reduced-sodium beef or chicken broth, or swap traditional cubed steaks with turkey or chicken breast cutlets. For a Southern twist, add a dash of hot sauce or a spoonful of Dijon mustard to the gravy.
The slow cooker method is forgiving, so feel free to get creative, making the dish truly your own while keeping the comforting spirit of Crock Pot Cubed Steak at the forefront.
Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Cubed Steak is the ultimate main dish for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy Sunday gatherings. To create a picture-perfect plate, serve the cubed steak atop a mound of creamy mashed potatoes, allowing the luscious gravy to soak in.
Alternatively, pair it with steamed white or brown rice for an equally comforting base. For Southern flair, try serving alongside fluffy biscuits or fresh cornbread, using them to mop up every drop of the flavorful sauce.
Add a burst of color and nutrition with classic sides such as green beans, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp garden salad dressed with vinaigrette. For heartier meals, include mac and cheese, buttered sweet corn, or slow-cooked collard greens.
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped chives just before serving adds a pop of freshness and color. Garnish the dish right at the table for extra flair. When serving at gatherings, consider keeping the cubed steak warm in the slow cooker on the 'keep warm' setting for self-serve convenience.
This dish also travels well, making it a favorite for potluck dinners or holiday feasts. No matter how you choose to plate it, Crock Pot Cubed Steak guarantees a meal that feels like a hug in every bite, offering plenty of gravy and satisfaction for everyone.
Health Benefits
Crock Pot Cubed Steak offers a variety of health benefits when prepared with a mindful approach. Lean cuts of cubed steak deliver high-quality protein, which is vital for muscle repair, immune support, and maintaining healthy skin and hair.
The dish is rich in iron and zinc, essential minerals for red blood cell production and immune function. Onions and garlic, core components of the dish, provide antioxidants and compounds linked to reduced inflammation and better heart health.
If you want to make the meal even healthier, choose low-sodium soups and broths, or create your own from scratch to limit processed ingredients.
Replacing some of the cubed steak with extra vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or bell peppers increases the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content, supporting digestive health and overall wellness.
Pairing Crock Pot Cubed Steak with whole grain sides and a variety of vegetables rounds out the meal for better blood sugar stability and nutrient density. As with any comfort food, moderation and smart ingredient swaps allow you to enjoy every comforting, nostalgic bite while aligning with your health goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
While you can skip browning to save time, searing the cubed steak first adds significant flavor and improves texture by locking in juices and caramelizing the meat. It's a recommended step for the best results.
Yes, you can cook on HIGH for 3-4 hours, but for the most tender results, cooking on LOW for 6-7 hours is preferred. The longer cook time allows the meat to become fork-tender.
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and ensure your soup brands are certified gluten-free to suit dietary needs.
Yes, Crock Pot Cubed Steak freezes well. Cool leftovers completely, store in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
You can use cream of chicken, celery soup, or make a homemade béchamel sauce as a substitute. For a lighter option, use additional broth thickened with flour or cornstarch.
Crock Pot Cubed Steak is the epitome of slow cooker comfort food-simple to prepare, endlessly satisfying, and packed with home-cooked flavor. With only a handful of ingredients and a trusty slow cooker, you can deliver a meal that will have your family asking for seconds. Adapting the dish for dietary needs or adding personal touches is easy, promising a versatile meal for busy weeknights, cozy gatherings, or whenever you crave a taste of classic Southern comfort. Let the inviting aroma fill your kitchen, set your table with favorite sides, and savor every bite of this time-honored dish. Crock Pot Cubed Steak is more than just a recipe; it's a heartwarming tradition that brings people together.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds cubed steak
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 package (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
-
1Place the sliced onions and mushrooms at the bottom of the crock pot.
-
2Arrange the cubed steak pieces over the onions and mushrooms.
-
3In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, beef broth, and black pepper. Pour the mixture over the steak.
-
4Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or until the steak is tender.
-
5For a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the sauce 15 minutes before serving.
-
6Serve the cubed steak and gravy hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
Did you make this recipe?
Please consider Pinning it!!
