Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy is a classic comfort food that combines tender beef with a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is as simple as it is delicious. With the help of your slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, coming home to a hearty meal ready to be enjoyed. Here’s a detailed guide to making this comforting dish.
Ingredients
- 1 to 1.5 pounds cubed steak (4 to 6 pieces): Choose cuts like top round or sirloin for the best results. These cuts are ideal for slow cooking because they become tender and flavorful.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of the meat.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Used to dredge the steak, which helps create a flavorful crust and thickens the gravy.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For browning the steak, which adds depth of flavor.
- 2 cups beef broth: Provides the base for the gravy and adds richness.
- 1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of mushroom soup: Adds a creamy texture and a robust flavor to the gravy.
- 1 packet onion soup mix: Enhances the flavor with a savory, oniony kick.
- 1 onion, thinly sliced (optional): Adds extra flavor and texture to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional): For additional seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional): Adds a hint of herbal flavor.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): Adds a touch of freshness and color.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cubed Steak
- Season and Dredge:
- Begin by seasoning the cubed steak generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Place the flour in a shallow dish and dredge each piece of steak in the flour, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour to avoid a lumpy gravy.
2. Brown the Steak
- Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Brown the Steak:
- Add the cubed steak to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. The goal is to develop a nice sear, not to cook the steak through. This step adds a depth of flavor to the dish.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker:
- After browning, transfer the steak to the slow cooker. The seared bits from the skillet will add flavor to the gravy as they cook.
3. Prepare the Gravy
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, combine the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and onion soup mix. If you’re using garlic powder and dried thyme, add them to the mixture.
- Add to Slow Cooker:
- Pour the gravy mixture over the cubed steak in the slow cooker. If you’re using onions, scatter them over the top. This will enhance the flavor and add a bit of texture to the dish.
4. Slow Cook the Dish
- Cook on Low:
- Cover and cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours. The slow cooking process allows the steak to become tender and the flavors to meld together. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 3-4 hours, though the meat may not be as tender.
5. Finish and Serve
- Garnish:
- Before serving, taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve:
- Serve the cubed steak with gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. The rich, creamy gravy complements these sides perfectly, making for a satisfying meal.
Tips for Success
- Brown the Meat:
- Browning the steak before adding it to the slow cooker helps to develop a deeper flavor and richer color in the gravy. Don’t skip this step for the best results.
- Thicken the Gravy:
- If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with an equal amount of cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the gravy about 30 minutes before the end of cooking to thicken it.
- Add Vegetables:
- For a more complete meal, consider adding vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms to the slow cooker. Chop them into chunks and add them with the steak and gravy mixture.
- Flavor Variations:
- Experiment with different seasonings or add a splash of red wine to the gravy for a unique flavor twist. You can also use a different cream soup flavor, such as cream of celery, for a different taste.
Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy is a versatile and comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for busy days. The slow cooker does most of the work, turning simple ingredients into a hearty meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether served over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles, this dish is a guaranteed hit with family and friends. Enjoy the rich flavors and tender meat that comes from this classic recipe, and relish the convenience of a hands-off cooking approach.
