Slow cooker meals have become a staple in many households due to their convenience and ability to transform simple ingredients into flavorful, hearty dishes. One such dish is the slow cooker cubed steak. Known for its tender texture and rich, savory gravy, this recipe is a comforting classic that brings warmth to the dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend, slow cooker cubed steak is a go-to meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients:
- 6 Cubed Steaks: Cubed steak, a cut of beef that has been tenderized, is perfect for slow cooking. Its texture becomes incredibly tender after hours of simmering.
- 1 Onion, Sliced: Onions add a sweet and savory depth to the dish, complementing the beef perfectly.
- 1 Can Cream of Celery Soup: This adds a creamy base and subtle celery flavor to the gravy.
- 1 Can Cream of Chicken Soup: Another creamy component, this soup enhances the richness of the gravy.
- 1 Packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix: This mix is packed with flavors and seasonings, adding complexity and depth to the gravy.
- 1/2 Can Water: Helps to create a perfect consistency for the gravy.
- 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a touch of spice and enhances the overall flavor.
Instructions
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious slow cooker cubed steak:
- Layering the Ingredients: Start by slicing the onion into rings and placing them at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will create a flavorful bed for the steaks.
- Arranging the Steaks: Lay the cubed steaks on top of the onions, arranging them in a single layer if possible.
- Preparing the Soup Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, Lipton onion soup mix, water, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Pouring the Mixture: Pour the soup mixture over the cubed steaks, ensuring that each piece is well-covered. This will ensure the meat absorbs all the delicious flavors during cooking.
- Slow Cooking: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model, so check the meat periodically for tenderness.
- Serving: Once the cubed steaks are tender and fully cooked, serve them hot, smothered in the rich gravy. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. For a fresh touch, garnish with chopped parsley or additional sliced onions.
Cooking Tips
To ensure your slow cooker cubed steak turns out perfectly every time, consider these handy tips:
- Choosing the Right Steaks: Select well-marbled cubed steaks for the best flavor and tenderness. The marbling ensures the meat stays moist and flavorful.
- Soup Mixture Consistency: If you prefer a thicker gravy, reduce the amount of water or add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. Simply mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the gravy.
- Adding Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or bell peppers. These can be layered on top of the onions before adding the steaks.
Variations
This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
- Mushroom Gravy: Swap the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup for a richer, earthier flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika to the soup mixture for a spicier version.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the cubed steaks with thick slices of tofu or seitan for a meatless alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions about making slow cooker cubed steak:
- Can I use frozen cubed steaks? Yes, you can use frozen cubed steaks, but it’s best to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking to ensure even cooking.
- How do I thicken the gravy? To thicken the gravy, you can use a cornstarch slurry. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the gravy during the last hour of cooking.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply transfer everything to the slow cooker and start cooking.
Slow cooker cubed steak is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favorite among home cooks. By following this recipe and the tips provided, you’ll be able to create a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and enjoy the rich, savory goodness of cubed steak with your loved ones.
