Crock Pot Cube Steak Recipe

Looking for an easy, no-fuss meal that’s packed with flavor? Crock Pot Cube Steak is the answer! This dish transforms a tough cut of beef into a fork-tender delight, simmered in a rich, savory gravy. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving a classic comfort food dish, this slow cooker recipe is a game-changer. Let’s dive in! 🍽️

What Is Cube Steak?

Cube steak is a cut of beef (typically top round or top sirloin) that’s been tenderized with a meat mallet or machine. This process gives it a unique “cubed” texture, making it ideal for slow cooking. Because cube steak is lean and can be tough, using a Crock Pot is one of the best ways to cook it—low and slow, breaking down the fibers until it’s fall-apart tender.

“Cube steak may start out tough, but with the right cooking method, it turns into one of the most tender and flavorful cuts you’ll ever eat.”

Why Use a Crock Pot for Cooking Cube Steak?

Why should you choose a Crock Pot instead of other cooking methods? Here’s why slow cooking works best:

• 🕒 Set It and Forget It – Toss in the ingredients, set the timer, and let your slow cooker do all the work.
• 🥩 Super Tender Meat – The slow cooking process breaks down tough fibers, making the steak juicy and soft.
• 🍂 Rich, Deep Flavor – The steak soaks up all the delicious flavors of the gravy as it simmers.
• 🍽️ Perfect for Busy Days – No need to stand over the stove—just prep and go!

Ingredients

Let’s get everything ready! Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious Crock Pot Cube Steak.

How to Make Crock Pot Cube Steak

Now, let’s break down the step-by-step process to ensure you get the best, most tender cube steak every single time. Follow these simple steps:

1️⃣ Prepare the Steak

• Gently blot the cube steak with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
• Dredge each steak in the flour mixture, coating it evenly on both sides.

2️⃣ Brown the Steak (Optional but Recommended)

Although you can skip this step, browning the steak first enhances the flavor.

• Warm the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
• Cook each steak for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
• Transfer to a plate and set aside.

“Browning the steak first creates a richer, deeper flavor in the gravy.”

3️⃣ Assemble the Crock Pot

• Place sliced onions and mushrooms (if using) at the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Lay the cube steak pieces on top.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown gravy mix.
• Pour the mixture over the steak and onions.

4️⃣ Slow Cook to Perfection

• Cover the Crock Pot and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
• Check the steak—if it falls apart easily with a fork, it’s ready!

What to Serve with Crock Pot Cube Steak?

Crock Pot Cube Steak pairs perfectly with these sides:

• 🥔 Mashed Potatoes – The gravy is perfect for drizzling over creamy potatoes.
• 🍚 Rice – Absorbs all the delicious sauce.
• 🥖 Buttered Rolls – Great for soaking up every last drop of gravy.
• 🥦 Steamed Vegetables – A healthy, fresh contrast to the rich steak.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Common Problems and How to Fix Them

Even with a slow cooker, sometimes things don’t go as planned. If your Crock Pot Cube Steak didn’t turn out quite right, don’t worry—here are the most common problems and how to fix them.

1️⃣ Why Is My Cube Steak Tough?

Cube steak should be fall-apart tender, but if it’s tough, something went wrong.

Solution:

• Ensure you’re cooking it long enough. 6-8 hours on LOW is best for maximum tenderness.
• Avoid cooking on HIGH unless you’re short on time—LOW heat gives the best results.
• If the steak is still tough, let it cook for another 30-60 minutes and check again.

2️⃣ How Do I Prevent My Gravy from Being Too Watery?

If your gravy is too thin, it won’t coat the steak properly.

Solution:

• Remove the lid and let the gravy simmer for the last 30 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
• Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the slow cooker and let it thicken.

What If My Cube Steak Is Too Salty?

Sometimes, store-bought broths or gravy mixes can be too salty.

Solution:

• Add more unsalted beef broth to dilute the saltiness.
• Stir in a small splash of heavy cream to balance out the flavors.
• A pinch of sugar can also help mellow out excessive saltiness.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Cube Steak

Want to elevate your meal? These side dishes pair beautifully with Crock Pot Cube Steak.

🥔 1. Mashed Potatoes

The thick, savory gravy was made for spooning over a fluffy bed of mashed potatoes.

🍚 2. Rice

Simple, buttery rice absorbs all the delicious juices from the steak.

🥖 3. Crusty Bread

Nothing goes to waste when you have bread to soak up the last drops of that flavorful gravy.

🥗 4. Roasted Vegetables

Balance out the richness of the dish with some roasted carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.

Recipe Variations

Want to switch things up? Try these delicious variations of cube steak.

🍄 1. Creamy Mushroom Cube Steak

• Replace the brown gravy with cream of mushroom soup.
• Add extra mushrooms for a deep, earthy flavor.

🌶️ 2. Spicy Southern-Style Cube Steak

• Stir in cayenne pepper and hot sauce for a fiery kick.
• Serve with jalapeño cornbread for an extra Southern twist.

🍔 3. Hamburger Steaks with Country Gravy

Love steak in a rich, creamy sauce? Try this Hamburger Steaks with Country Gravy Recipe. It’s a flavorful, comforting dish that pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or biscuits.

🥑 4. Low-Carb / Keto Cube Steak

• Skip the flour coating and use almond flour or coconut flour instead.
• Serve with cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes.

No matter which variation you choose, these steak recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Made too much? Here’s how to store and reheat your cube steak without losing flavor.

Storing

• Let the steak cool completely before storing.
• Keep it fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• For extended storage, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

• For the best texture, reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth.
• Short on time? Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
• If frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for the best texture.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Crock Pot Cube Steak

Got questions? Here are answers to the most common ones about making the perfect cube steak in a slow cooker.

1️⃣ Why Is My Cube Steak Tough in the Crock Pot?

If your cube steak turned out tough instead of melt-in-your-mouth tender, it’s likely due to one of these reasons:

Possible Causes & Fixes:

• Not enough cooking time – Cube steak needs at least 6-8 hours on LOW to break down properly.
• Too high of a temperature – Cooking on HIGH can cause the meat to seize up before it has time to tenderize.
• Skipping the liquid – Always add enough broth or gravy to keep the steak moist while cooking.

2️⃣ Does Cube Steak Get More Tender the Longer It Cooks?

Yes! Cube steak is a tough cut of meat, so the longer it simmers in the Crock Pot, the more tender it becomes.

Best Cooking Times:

• On LOW: 6-8 hours (best for fall-apart tenderness).
• On HIGH: 3-4 hours (faster, but not as tender).

If your steak is still tough, let it cook for another 30-60 minutes and check again.

3️⃣ How Do You Make Cubed Steak Tender?

Want extra-tender cube steak? Follow these pro tips:

Tips for Tenderizing:

• Pound it out – Use a meat mallet to break down fibers before cooking.
• Cook it low and slow – The best way to tenderize cube steak is in the Crock Pot on LOW heat.
• Use an acidic ingredient – Adding a little Worcestershire sauce or vinegar helps break down tough fibers.
• Let it rest – Once cooked, let the steak sit for a few minutes to absorb juices before serving.

4️⃣ Can You Put Steak in a Slow Cooker Raw?

Yes! You can put cube steak in the slow cooker raw, and it will cook just fine. However, searing it first improves the flavor.

Should You Brown It First?

• ✅ Yes, if you want more flavor – Searing creates a deeper, richer taste.
• ❌ No, if you’re in a hurry – You can skip browning and still get tender, delicious steak.

“Browning the meat first isn’t necessary, but it adds an extra depth of flavor that makes the dish even better.”

Have more questions? Drop them in the comments, and happy cooking! 🍽️

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crock Pot Cube Steak is a true comfort food classic—rich, tender, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy slow cooker recipe is sure to become a favorite.

“Great food doesn’t have to be complicated. This simple Crock Pot Cube Steak recipe proves that with just a few ingredients, you can create something delicious.”

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! Have any tips or variations of your own? Share them in the comments! 🍽️

If you love easy, comforting meals, don’t miss this Cheesy Tortellini Bake! It’s the perfect side or main dish for a cozy dinner. 😋 Get the full recipe here: Cheesy Tortellini Bake Recipe.