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Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe

If you’re craving a warm, comforting dinner that practically cooks itself, you’re going to love this Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe. I absolutely love how tender and flavorful this dish turns out, and what’s better? You can set it and forget it all day! Whether you’re new to slow cooking or just need a fuss-free weeknight meal, this recipe is everything you want in a cozy dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Tender Melt-in-Your-Mouth Steak: Slow cooking breaks down the cube steak so it’s never tough.
  • Rich, Savory Gravy: The onion and soup mixture makes a comforting sauce that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes.
  • Simple Ingredients, Easy Prep: You probably have everything you need in your pantry and fridge already.
  • Hands-Off Cooking: Just layer it all in your crock pot and come home to a delicious meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe all come together beautifully to create a hearty comfort meal. I love using canned cream of mushroom soup because it adds that perfect creamy, savory touch without any fuss.

Flat lay of thick raw cube steaks with visible marbling, two cans of cream of mushroom soup with their labels partly visible, a large minced red onion showing vibrant purple and white layers, a small heap of homemade beef bouillon powder crystals, and a clear measuring cup filled with rich beef broth, all beautifully arranged with natural lighting, fresh and inviting, placed on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Crock Pot Cube Steak, slow cooker cube steak recipe, easy crock pot steak, tender cube steak slow cooker, comforting slow cooker dinner
  • Cube Steaks: These are affordable and tenderize so well with slow cooking—you don’t need anything fancy.
  • Canned Cream of Mushroom Soup: Classic for a reason; it adds creaminess and umami that pairs perfectly with beef.
  • Beef Broth: Enhances the beefy flavor and keeps everything juicy inside the crock pot.
  • Red Onion: Adds sweetness once it slow cooks and softens—don’t skip it!
  • Beef Bouillon Powder or Onion Soup Mix: This is the secret layer of flavor that elevates the sauce from ordinary to unforgettable.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I often tweak this Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe depending on what I have on hand or to suit guests’ preferences—and honestly, it still comes out amazing every time. Feel free to experiment a little and make it your own!

  • Use Different Soup Flavors: Tried cream of celery and chicken soup in place of mushroom, and both work beautifully when you want a subtle change.
  • Add Mushrooms: If you’re a mushroom fan, toss in fresh sliced mushrooms for extra texture and earthiness—I love doing this in fall.
  • Make It Spicy: A pinch of cayenne or some smoked paprika gives the dish a gentle warmth that my family goes crazy for.
  • Slow Cooker vs. Instant Pot: I usually stick to the slow cooker but have adapted this recipe to the Instant Pot by reducing cooking time—let me know if you want that method!

How to Make Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Onion Bed

Start by peeling and mincing a large red onion. I find that red onion adds a nice color and mild sweetness once it cooks down, but yellow or white onions work perfectly if that’s what you have. Spread the onions evenly at the bottom of your slow cooker insert. This little onion bed keeps the cube steaks from sticking and adds incredible flavor as it slow simmers.

Step 2: Layer the Cube Steaks

Next, lay your cube steaks over the onions in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pot too much; if your slow cooker is smaller, you can cut the steaks in half or do two batches. The steaks start tenderizing from the edges inward, so giving them room helps them cook evenly.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings and Liquids

Sprinkle the homemade beef bouillon powder—or a packet of onion soup mix if you prefer—right over the beef. Pour in the beef broth and then dollop both cans of condensed cream of mushroom soup on top. I grab a fork and gently stir the soup with the bouillon powder just enough to combine them; no need for perfection here. They’ll meld as they cook into a rich, savory sauce that’s the highlight of this recipe.

Step 4: Slow Cook Low and Slow

Pop the lid on your crock pot and set it to low. Let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours. This long, slow cooking time is what turns the cube steak super tender—like it falls apart with a fork—but still moist and flavorful. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours, but I always prefer low and slow for the best results.

Step 5: Blend the Sauce for Gravy Perfection

Once the cooking time is up, remove the steaks carefully (they’ll be delicate!). To get that lovely gravy texture, I use a stick blender right in the crock pot to whiz up the onions in the sauce. If you don’t have a stick blender, transferring the sauce to a regular blender works, too—just be cautious with the hot liquid. This step thickens the sauce and makes it silky-smooth. If you’re in a rush, you can use the sauce as is—it’s tasty but a little chunkier.

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Pro Tips for Making Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe

  • Pick Quality Cube Steaks: Look for well-marbled cube steak for better flavor and tenderness.
  • Don’t Skip the Onion: The onions create natural sweetness and depth in your gravy—trust me, it’s worth it.
  • Low and Slow is Key: Cooking on low heat for 6-8 hours makes all the difference in tenderness.
  • Blend for Smooth Gravy: Whipping the sauce with a stick blender adds that restaurant-quality finish at home.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe

The image shows a white plate with three layers of food. The bottom layer is creamy mashed potatoes, which look soft and smooth in a pale cream color. On top of the mashed potatoes is a thick piece of cooked meat covered generously with a brown gravy sauce that has small onion bits and black pepper sprinkled on top. To the side of the meat, there is a small bunch of cooked green asparagus spears that add a fresh green color. The white plate sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Crock Pot Cube Steak, slow cooker cube steak recipe, easy crock pot steak, tender cube steak slow cooker, comforting slow cooker dinner

Garnishes

I like to sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top just before serving—it adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor that brightens the rich dish. Sometimes a few cracked black peppercorns on the gravy enhance the taste, too.

Side Dishes

This Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up all that glorious gravy. My family also loves it with buttered egg noodles or steamed white rice. For veggies, I usually serve roasted carrots or green beans to add some color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ve served this dish in elegant shallow bowls with a sprig of fresh thyme and a side of crispy garlic bread to mop up the sauce. You can get creative by layering the stew over a gratin or fluffy polenta for a fancy twist that impresses guests effortlessly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I usually transfer mine to glass containers to maintain flavor and freshness. The meat softens even more overnight soaked in the sauce, making for a sensational next-day meal.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe several times with great success. Let the dish cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

To reheat, I gently warm leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works too, but I prefer the stovetop for the best flavor and texture.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen cube steaks in this Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe?

    Yes, you can use frozen cube steaks, but I recommend thawing them first for even cooking. Frozen meat may increase the cooking time and can sometimes result in uneven tenderness. If you’re short on time, try to thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results.

  2. Can I make this recipe without cream of mushroom soup?

    Absolutely! You can substitute with cream of celery or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile. If you prefer to avoid canned soups, making a homemade creamy sauce with a roux and broth works as well, though it requires more prep. The canned soup adds convenience and great flavor with minimal effort.

  3. How long can I cook the cube steak in the crock pot?

    Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours for the best tenderness. You can also cook on high for 3 to 4 hours if you need to speed things up, but going low and slow really lets the beef break down and develop maximum flavor.

  4. What side dishes go best with Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe?

    Mashed potatoes are the classic choice because they soak up the delicious gravy perfectly. You can also serve it with egg noodles, white rice, or even buttery polenta. For veggies, try roasted carrots, green beans, or a crisp salad to balance the richness.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe has become one of my go-to comfort dinners, especially on busy days when I want something hearty on the table without spending a ton of time. The tender steak and creamy gravy always remind me of home-cooked meals I grew up with, and I know you’ll enjoy it just as much as my family does. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to get a delicious melt-in-your-mouth steak dinner waiting for you when you come home.

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Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 140 reviews
  • Author: Jasmine
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Crock Pot Cube Steak is a comforting and easy-to-make slow cooker recipe featuring tender cube steaks simmered in a savory mushroom gravy with onions. Perfect for a hearty family meal served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.


Ingredients

Meat

  • 4 cube steaks

Soup & Broth

  • 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery or chicken)
  • 1 cup beef broth

Vegetables

  • 1 large red onion, minced (white or yellow also work)

Seasoning

  • 3 tablespoons homemade beef bouillon powder (or 1 packet onion soup mix)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the onions: Small dice the onion and spread it evenly in the bottom of your slow cooker insert to create a flavorful base.
  2. Layer the cube steaks: Lay the cube steaks over the diced onions evenly within the slow cooker.
  3. Add seasonings and broth: Sprinkle the homemade beef bouillon powder or onion soup mix over the steaks, then pour the beef broth on top to combine the flavors.
  4. Add cream soup and mix: Spoon both cans of condensed cream of mushroom soup into the slow cooker. Use a fork to gently mix the soup with the bouillon powder and broth; it doesn’t need to be perfectly combined as it will blend during cooking.
  5. Slow cook: Cover the crock pot and set to low heat. Cook for 6 to 8 hours, or until the cube steaks are tender and ‘melt-in-your-mouth’.
  6. Prepare gravy: Remove the steaks from the slow cooker. Use a stick blender to puree the onions and cooking juices in the crock pot to create a thicker, gravy-like sauce. Alternatively, leave it as is for a thinner sauce with onion chunks.
  7. Serve: Plate the cube steak and spoon the gravy over it. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, accompanied by your favorite vegetable sides for a complete meal.

Notes

  • This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice to soak up the rich gravy.
  • The long, slow cooking process makes the cube steak tender and flavorful without extra effort.
  • You can swap cream of mushroom soup with cream of celery or chicken soup based on preference or availability.
  • Using homemade beef bouillon powder enhances the savory taste, but store-bought onion soup mix works well too.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 321 kcal
  • Sugar: 2.3 g
  • Sodium: 1768 mg
  • Fat: 13 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9.9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13.4 g
  • Fiber: 2.2 g
  • Protein: 35.7 g
  • Cholesterol: 86.5 mg

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