Print

Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipes

Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipes

Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipes offer a tender, flavorful, and budget-friendly way to prepare affordable cube steak cuts using minimal effort. Perfect for slow cooking, these recipes transform simple ingredients into comforting meals ideal for family dinners, sandwiches, or versatile main dishes with rich, melt-in-your-mouth beef and layered flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds cube steak
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup tomato sauce or tomato paste (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary

Optional Vegetables

  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

Variation Ingredients (Optional)

  • Italian Style: Marinara sauce, Italian herbs (basil, oregano)
  • Mexican Flair: 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • Low-Carb Version: Green beans, zucchini instead of starchy vegetables
  • Mushroom Gravy: Creamy mushroom soup or extra fresh mushrooms
  • BBQ Twist: 1/2 cup barbecue sauce, sliced bell peppers

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cube Steak: Pat the cube steaks dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt, pepper, paprika, and your choice of herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the natural beef flavor.
  2. Sear for Added Flavor: (Optional) Heat a skillet with a little oil over medium-high heat and quickly sear the cube steaks on both sides until browned. This step locks in juices and adds depth to the taste.
  3. Layer Ingredients in Crock Pot: Place the seared cube steaks into the slow cooker. Add sliced onions, minced garlic, and any optional vegetables like carrots or mushrooms. Pour beef broth and any chosen sauces (tomato sauce, marinara, barbecue sauce) over the top.
  4. Slow Cook Until Tender: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the meat fibers to break down for a tender, juicy result.
  5. Finish and Serve: When cooking is complete, check and adjust seasoning with extra salt or herbs if needed. Serve the tender cube steak along with the sauce and your preferred side dishes such as mashed potatoes, noodles, or sandwiches.

Notes

  • Season generously before cooking to ensure the dish is flavorful throughout.
  • Searing the meat is optional but highly recommended for improved texture and taste.
  • Cook on low heat whenever possible to keep the beef tender and prevent drying out.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of around 160°F for perfect doneness.
  • Adjust sauce thickness by thinning with additional broth or simmering uncovered to thicken.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave to keep beef tender and moist.

Nutrition

Keywords: cube steak, crock pot, slow cooker, beef recipe, budget-friendly, easy dinner, family meal, tender beef, slow cooked beef