Few meals bring the comfort of a slow-cooked, tender dish that fills your home with warmth and delicious aromas. This Crock Pot Cube Steak recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty, flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With simple ingredients and an effortless layering method, this recipe is the perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.
Jump to RecipeWhy You’ll Love Crock Pot Cube Steak
- Effortless Prep: With just a few ingredients and a simple layering technique, it’s easy to prepare even on your busiest days.
- Rich Flavors: The blend of soups and seasonings creates a luscious gravy that perfectly complements the tender cube steak.
- Family Favorite: This comforting classic appeals to all ages, making it a go-to meal for the whole family.
- Crock Pot Convenience: No need to hover over the stove your slow cooker does all the work.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Cube Steak
Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life:
- 6 cube steaks: A budget-friendly cut of beef that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender when slow-cooked.
- 1 medium onion, peeled and sliced into rings: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup: Provides a creamy, savory base.
- 1 can cream of celery soup: Adds subtle herby undertones to the gravy.
- 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix: Enhances the dish with bold onion flavor and seasoning.
- ½ soup can of water: Helps thin the gravy and ensures everything cooks evenly.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
- Peel and slice the onion into thin rings.
- Gather your soups, soup mix, and water for easy assembly.
2. Layer the Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Building your Crock Pot Cube Steak is as simple as layering:
- First Layer: Begin by laying some onion rings at the bottom of the slow cooker. This adds flavor and prevents the steaks from sticking.
- Second Layer: Place the cube steaks on top of the onions, overlapping slightly if needed.
- Third Layer: Sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup Mix evenly over the cube steaks.
- Fourth Layer: Spread the cream of chicken soup and cream of celery soup over the steaks, ensuring they’re fully coated.
- Final Touch: Pour in ½ can of water, letting it seep around the edges to create a smooth gravy as it cooks.
3. Slow Cook to Perfection
- Set your Crock Pot to low and let it cook for 6 hours. This slow, gentle heat transforms the cube steak into fork-tender bites infused with rich flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Crock Pot Cube Steak is versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:
Classic Comfort Sides
- Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the creamy gravy over fluffy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort-food pairing.
- Steamed Rice: Let the rice soak up the savory sauce.
- Egg Noodles: Toss cooked noodles in the gravy for a homestyle twist.
Vegetable Pairings
- Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp texture balances the creamy richness of the steak.
- Roasted Carrots: Add a touch of sweetness and color to your plate.
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcrowd the Crock Pot
Ensure the ingredients are evenly layered for consistent cooking and flavor distribution. - Adjust the Gravy Consistency
If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking. - Add Mushrooms for Extra Flavor
For an earthy twist, layer sliced mushrooms along with the onions. - Make It Your Own
- Swap cream of celery soup for cream of mushroom or cream of onion for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for a deeper, umami kick.
Why This Recipe Works
Cube steak is often overlooked due to its tougher texture when cooked quickly, but it shines in slow-cooked recipes like this. The long cooking time breaks down the meat’s fibers, creating an ultra-tender dish that soaks up the rich, savory flavors of the soups and seasonings.
The addition of onion soup mix adds complexity without the need for extra spices, while the soups and water ensure a creamy, flavorful gravy forms effortlessly.
Variations to Try
This recipe is easily customizable to suit your preferences:
1. Add Vegetables
Include root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or parsnips for a one-pot meal. Simply layer them under the cube steak to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Spice It Up
For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the soup mixture.
3. Use Different Cuts of Meat
If cube steak isn’t available, substitute with other cuts like round steak, sirloin tips, or even pork chops. Adjust cooking time as needed.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make-Ahead
- Assemble the layers in the Crock Pot insert the night before. Cover and refrigerate until ready to cook. In the morning, simply place the insert in the slow cooker and start cooking.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the gravy has thickened too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Cook This on High?
Yes, but for the best results, stick to low heat. If you’re short on time, cook on high for 3–4 hours, though the texture may not be as tender.
2. Can I Use Homemade Soup Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Substitute the canned soups with about 1½ cups of homemade cream soup for a fresher taste.
3. What Is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a tenderized cut of beef, often from the top round or top sirloin, with a distinctive dimpled texture from the tenderizing process. It’s economical and perfect for slow-cooked dishes like this.
Why Crock Pot Cube Steak Is a Must-Try
This recipe brings together simplicity and comfort in the best way possible. With minimal prep and a handful of pantry staples, you can create a satisfying, hearty meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The tender beef, rich gravy, and customizable sides make it a versatile dish that works for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends.
So dust off your Crock Pot, grab those cube steaks, and let the magic of slow cooking transform this humble cut into a meal that’s full of flavor and warmth. Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of veggies, this Crock Pot Cube Steak recipe is guaranteed to earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation!
Crock Pot Cube Steak
Ingredients
6 cube steaks
1 medium onion peeled and sliced into rings
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can cream of celery soup
1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix
1/2 soup can of water
Directions
- You basically layer everything and cook 6 hours on crock pot on low.