Crock Pot Cube Steak

In the realm of comfort food, there’s something magical about a dish that marries ease of preparation with depth of flavor. This Crock Pot Cube Steak recipe is a testament to the wonders of slow cooking, transforming a simple cut of meat into a tender, savory meal that feels like a warm embrace. My journey with this recipe began on a busy weekday, searching for a set-it-and-forget-it dinner option that would satisfy my family without demanding hours in the kitchen. The result was not just a meal but an experience: fork-tender steak smothered in a creamy, flavorful sauce, evoking memories of Sunday dinners at grandma’s house. Here’s how you can recreate this comforting classic in your own kitchen.

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
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for searing, optional)

Instructions

  1. Optional but recommended for added flavor: Season the cube steaks with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the cube steaks for a couple of minutes on each side. This step enhances the meat’s flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of celery soup, Lipton Onion Soup Mix, and water. Stir until the ingredients are thoroughly mixed.
  3. Start assembling in the crock pot by placing a layer of sliced onions at the bottom.
  4. Add half of the cube steaks over the onions, then cover with half of the soup mixture.
  5. Repeat the layering with the remaining cube steaks and soup mixture.
  6. If you seared the steaks, deglaze the skillet with a little water or broth and pour these flavorful juices into the crock pot.
  7. Set the crock pot to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process ensures that the cube steaks become tender and infused with flavor.
  8. After cooking, gently stir the contents. The cube steaks should be so tender they fall apart with a fork.
  9. Serve the cube steaks and the creamy sauce over your choice of rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles. For a touch of freshness, garnish with parsley or chives.
  10. Sit back and enjoy the heartwarming taste of your Crock Pot Cube Steak.

Nutrition Facts

  • Servings: This recipe serves 6.
  • Calories per Serving: Not specified, as it varies based on the brand of ingredients used and whether the meat is seared.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes (20 minutes if including searing)
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: Approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes

Additional Tips

  1. Meat Selection: Cube steak is ideal for this recipe due to its tenderness after slow cooking, but feel free to experiment with other cuts.
  2. Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in a tablespoon of cornstarch dissolved in water during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  3. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add mushrooms, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
  4. Searing the Meat: Although optional, searing the cube steaks adds a rich depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
  5. Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I cook this on high instead of low? Yes, but reduce the cooking time to 3-4 hours to prevent the meat from becoming too dry.
  2. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, use gluten-free soup or thickeners and ensure the onion soup mix is gluten-free.
  3. Can I add potatoes to the crock pot? Absolutely. Adding cubed potatoes will turn this into a one-pot meal, just ensure they’re fully submerged in the liquid to cook evenly.
  4. What if I don’t have Lipton Onion Soup Mix? You can substitute with a homemade mix of dried onion flakes, beef bouillon granules, a pinch of sugar, and a dash of onion and garlic powder.
  5. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, this dish freezes well. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently for best results.
  6. How can I ensure the cube steaks don’t come out tough? The key is the low and slow cooking process, which breaks down the fibers in the meat, ensuring tenderness.
  7. Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned soup? Yes, fresh mushrooms add a lovely flavor. Consider adding a cream base, like a roux, to substitute for the creaminess of the soups.
  8. Is it necessary to use both types of soup? While using both soups adds depth, you can use two cans of one type if you prefer or if that’s what you have on hand.
  9. Can I add rice directly to the crock pot? It’s best to cook rice separately, as adding it directly may result in overcooked rice or a soupier consistency than desired.
  10. How can I make this dish healthier? Opt for low-sodium soups, use a reduced-fat mayonnaise, and incorporate more vegetables to increase its nutritional value.

This Crock Pot Cube Steak recipe is a celebration of comfort food at its finest, bringing together simple ingredients to create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most straightforward recipes are the ones that resonate most, providing a taste of home with every bite.