A Comforting, Hearty Meal with Minimal Effort
If you’re looking for a classic Southern comfort meal that’s easy to prepare, this Crockpot Cubed Steak is the perfect solution. With just a few simple ingredients and slow cooking magic, you’ll have tender, flavorful steak smothered in a rich, savory gravy. Best of all, the slow cooker does all the work, making it ideal for busy days.
A Southern Classic Made Simple
Cubed steak was always a staple in my childhood home, usually pan-fried and served with mashed potatoes. While that version is undeniably delicious, using a crockpot takes the tenderness to the next level—no tough bites, just melt-in-your-mouth goodness. This recipe brings together cubed steak, onion soup mix, and a creamy mushroom gravy that coats every bite perfectly.
Ingredient Notes
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
- Cubed steak – A budget-friendly cut that becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
- Onion soup mix – Adds a deep, savory flavor to the gravy.
- Cream of mushroom soup – Creates a creamy, rich texture.
- Beef broth – Helps develop a flavorful, well-balanced sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the umami depth of the dish.
- Garlic powder & black pepper – Simple seasonings to complement the flavors.
Substitutions and Alternatives
- For a lighter option: Use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom.
- For a homemade touch: Make your own gravy with butter, flour, and beef broth instead of canned soup.
- For extra flavor: Add sliced mushrooms and onions to the slow cooker.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cubed Steak
Season the cubed steak with garlic powder and black pepper. If desired, lightly dredge in flour for a thicker gravy.
2. Layer in the Crockpot
Place the cubed steak in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the steak.
3. Add the Sauce Ingredients
In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the steak.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the steak is fork-tender.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Stir the gravy and serve the cubed steak over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t skip the low-and-slow cooking: Cooking on low yields the most tender steak.
- Flour the steak for a richer gravy: Lightly coating the steak in flour helps thicken the sauce.
- Stir before serving: The gravy will blend better once stirred at the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic pairing: Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.
- Comfort food twist: Spoon over buttered egg noodles or fluffy rice.
- Southern-style side: Pair with cornbread or biscuits to soak up the gravy.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Best Reheating Methods
- Stovetop: Reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, to avoid drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes! Round steak or even sirloin can be used, though cubed steak is the most tender in a slow cooker.
Can I make this without canned soup?
Absolutely. Use a homemade gravy made with butter, flour, and beef broth for a fresher taste.
What if my gravy is too thin?
Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot 30 minutes before serving.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Cubed Steak is the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Try it out and let me know how you serve yours!
Print
Crockpot Cubed Steak
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
This Crockpot Cubed Steak is an easy, comforting Southern classic that delivers tender, flavorful steak smothered in a rich, savory gravy. With minimal prep and slow-cooking magic, this hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 to 2 lbs cubed steak
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup flour (optional, for dredging)
- Optional: 1 cup sliced mushrooms and 1 small onion, sliced
Instructions
-
Prepare the Cubed Steak:
- Season the cubed steak with garlic powder and black pepper.
- (Optional) Lightly dredge in flour for a thicker, richer gravy.
-
Layer in the Crockpot:
- Place the cubed steak in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the steak.
-
Add the Sauce Ingredients:
- In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour this mixture over the steak.
- (Optional) Add sliced mushrooms and onions for extra flavor.
-
Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the steak is fork-tender.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- Stir the gravy before serving.
- Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for the ultimate comfort meal.
Notes
- For a homemade gravy: Skip the canned soup and make a fresh gravy with butter, flour, and beef broth.
- For a thicker sauce: Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir into the crockpot 30 minutes before serving.
- For a healthier twist: Use cream of celery or cream of chicken soup instead of cream of mushroom
Nutrition
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 35 g
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