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Introduction: The Ultimate Comfort Food at Your Fingertips
When you’re looking for a hearty, delicious meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any day of the week, Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy is the answer. This classic comfort food dish combines tender cube steak with a savory, flavorful gravy, all cooked slowly in your crock pot. Imagine coming home to the irresistible aroma of a meal that’s been cooking all day long—this is comfort food at its finest.
Personal Touch: Think about those busy days when you crave a meal that’s not just filling but also warms you from the inside out. Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy is more than just food; it’s a little slice of comfort in every bite.
What is Cube Steak with Gravy?
Cube Steak: Typically made from the round or chuck cuts of beef, cube steak is tenderized to break down the muscle fibers, making it perfect for slow-cooking. When cooked in the crock pot, cube steak becomes incredibly juicy and tender, absorbing the rich flavors of the gravy.
Gravy: The gravy is the star of this dish—thick, flavorful, and perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or rice. It’s made from the cooking juices, thickened with flour or cornstarch, and seasoned to perfection.
Why Cook Cube Steak in a Crock Pot?
- Convenience: The crock pot does most of the work for you. Just set it and forget it.
- Tender, Flavorful Meat: The slow cooking process ensures that the cube steak becomes tender and full of flavor.
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once you’ve set it up, you can go about your day without worrying about dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy
To create the perfect Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
Essential Ingredients
- Cube Steak: 4-6 pieces, depending on how many servings you need.
- Beef Broth: 2 cups for the base of the gravy.
- Onions: 1 large onion, sliced thinly for sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced for an extra savory punch.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme to season both the steak and gravy.
- Flour or Cornstarch: To thicken the gravy.
- Butter or Oil: For searing the steak to enhance flavor before cooking.
Optional Add-ins
- Mushrooms: For an earthy flavor and added texture.
- Carrots or Celery: To add some color and extra nutrients to the meal.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A few dashes for a deeper, more complex flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Season the Steak: Pat the cube steaks dry with a paper towel and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.
- Sear the Steak: Searing the steak in a hot skillet for a couple of minutes on each side will help develop a rich, caramelized crust. This step is optional but highly recommended for added flavor.
Step 2: Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot
- Layer the Onions and Garlic: Start by placing the sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the crock pot. These aromatics will infuse the gravy with a delightful depth of flavor.
- Add the Sear Steak: Place the seared cube steaks on top of the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the Beef Broth: Add 2 cups of beef broth to the crock pot, ensuring the steaks are nearly covered in liquid.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Set the Crock Pot: Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours. The longer cooking time on low heat will yield a more tender and flavorful result.
- Add Optional Ingredients: If you’re using vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, or celery, add them during this stage.
Step 4: Make the Gravy (Optional)
- Once the steak is tender, remove it from the crock pot.
- Thicken the Gravy: To thicken the gravy, mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture back into the crock pot and cook on high for an additional 10-15 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Serving Your Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy
Perfect Pairings: The beauty of Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy is that it pairs perfectly with a variety of sides, making it a complete meal.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Cube Steak and Gravy
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are ideal for soaking up the delicious gravy.
- Rice: Serve with fluffy white or brown rice to absorb the rich sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Light and fresh, steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli balance out the hearty meal.
- Buttered Corn: For a touch of sweetness that complements the savory steak.
Table of Ideal Side Pairings
| Side Dish | Cooking Time | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|---|
| Mashed Potatoes | 20-30 minutes | Soft, creamy, and perfect for soaking up gravy. |
| Rice | 15 minutes | Absorbs gravy, creating a filling, neutral base. |
| Steamed Vegetables | 10-15 minutes | Fresh and light, balances the heaviness of the meat. |
| Buttered Corn | 10 minutes | Sweet and savory, it adds a nice touch to the dish. |
Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy
- Don’t Skip the Searing: Searing the steak before slow cooking enhances the flavor by developing a rich, caramelized crust.
- Season Generously: The seasoning is crucial for building flavor, so don’t be shy with the salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Adjust Gravy Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, use more flour or cornstarch to achieve your desired consistency.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Feel free to try different vegetables or seasonings to customize the dish to your taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use other cuts of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like round steak or chuck roast, but cube steak is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderizing process.
Q2: Can I cook this recipe on high heat?
Yes, you can cook on high heat for 3-4 hours. However, cooking on low heat for 6-8 hours will yield a more tender and flavorful result.
Q3: Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Conclusion: Savor the Comfort of Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy
Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy is the ultimate comfort food, offering tender, flavorful steak in a savory gravy that’s easy to make and hard to resist. The slow cooker ensures that every bite is infused with deep, rich flavors, while the hands-off cooking method makes it an ideal weeknight meal.
Now that you have the recipe and all the tips for perfecting it, why not give it a try tonight? With minimal prep and maximum flavor, Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
Let us know how it turned out for you, and feel free to share any modifications or add-ins that worked well. Enjoy!