Cubed steak with gravy is a classic comfort food that’s incredibly easy to prepare using your slow cooker. The result is tender, flavorful meat with a rich, savory gravy that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or rice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this hearty meal:
Ingredients
- Cubed Steak: 1 to 1.5 pounds (about 4 to 6 pieces)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup (for dredging)
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Beef Broth: 2 cups
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 1 can (10.75 ounces)
- Onion Soup Mix: 1 packet
- Onion: 1, thinly sliced (optional)
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cubed Steak:
- Season and Dredge: Season the cubed steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Place the flour in a shallow dish and dredge each piece of steak in the flour, coating evenly. This step helps to create a nice crust on the meat and thickens the gravy.
2. Sear the Steak:
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the Steak: Once the oil is hot, add the cubed steak pieces. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned. You’re not cooking them through, just giving them a good sear to enhance flavor.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Add Ingredients: Transfer the seared cubed steak to the slow cooker. If using, place the thinly sliced onion on top of the steak.
- Mix the Gravy: In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and onion soup mix. If you like, you can also add the garlic powder and dried thyme for extra flavor. Whisk until well combined.
- Pour Over Steak: Pour the gravy mixture over the steak in the slow cooker, ensuring that the steak is well covered.
4. Cook:
- Cover and Set: Cover the slow cooker with its lid. Set the slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The steak should be tender and the gravy thickened.
5. Finish and Serve:
- Check for Doneness: When the cooking time is up, check the cubed steak to ensure it’s tender and easily shred with a fork. The gravy should be thick and flavorful.
- Garnish: If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve: Serve the cubed steak and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. It pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
Tips for Success
- Searing the Steak: Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the meat and helps the gravy develop a richer taste.
- Thickening the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the gravy during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Flavor Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. If you like a bit more kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Variations
- Mushroom Variations: For a different twist, add sliced fresh mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the steak. They’ll cook down and add a lovely texture to the gravy.
- Vegetable Additions: You can also toss in some baby carrots or diced potatoes for a one-pot meal with added veggies.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour for dredging and ensure the cream of mushroom soup and onion soup mix are gluten-free.
Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days. With minimal effort and ingredients, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to enjoy. The rich, savory gravy and tender cubed steak make this dish a favorite for family dinners. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this slow-cooked classic!
