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Crock Pot Cubed Steak brings the ultimate comfort of homestyle flavors with almost no hands on effort. Slow cooked in rich savory gravy until meltingly tender this recipe has saved my busiest weeknights and never fails to remind me of family dinners growing up. When the weather turns chilly or you just need dinner to take care of itself this crock pot classic makes life deliciously easy.
I started making this when my kids were in the thick of sports schedules and chaotic afternoons The slow cooker did all the heavy lifting and I found myself looking forward to that first bite every time
Ingredients
- Cream of chicken soup: brings creaminess and body to the gravy pick a low sodium version if you can and check for rich flavor
- French onion soup: packs in deep savory onion notes choose a brand with visible onion pieces for more texture
- Au jus gravy mix: amps up that beefy depth look for one without too much salt
- Water: makes sure there is enough moisture to gently cook the steaks
- Cubed steaks: are the humble star pick ones with good marbling so they stay juicy
- Cornstarch: thickens that luscious gravy rapidly make sure it is fresh for best results
- Cold water: ensures your cornstarch slurry blends smoothly for a glossy finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Set Up the Base:
- Add the cream of chicken soup French onion soup au jus gravy mix and water to your slow cooker Use a spatula to stir until completely blended Make sure there are no pockets of dry mix and it looks smooth and creamy
- Coat the Steaks:
- Nestle the cubed steaks into the gravy mixture Turn each piece to coat both sides thoroughly so every bite will soak up all the flavor
- Let It Cook:
- Put the lid on Set your slow cooker to low Cook for six to eight hours Resist the urge to peek as the steam is essential for tender steaks The long slow heat breaks down tougher meat fibers for that melt in your mouth texture
- Thicken the Gravy:
- About thirty minutes before serving whisk together cornstarch and cold water until lump free Pour this into the slow cooker and gently stir everything together No need to remove the steaks unless you find whisking easier
- Finish and Serve:
- Switch the slow cooker to high Cook uncovered for half an hour until the gravy thickens to your liking Spoon steaks onto plates and generously ladle over that luscious gravy
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The aroma from the onion soup always reminds me of my grandmother She believed that a slow cooked meal brought everyone together and insisted on making plenty for seconds My favorite part is watching the gravy turn glossy and thick right at the end
Storage Tips
Allow leftovers to cool a bit before storing in shallow airtight containers in the refrigerator They keep well for three to four days To reheat add a splash of broth or water if the gravy has thickened up too much
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap in cream of mushroom or even cream of celery soup for a slightly different depth of flavor If cubed steak is not available thinly sliced round steak or even pork cutlets work well The au jus mix can be replaced with onion soup mix for a lighter taste
Serving Suggestions
Pile the cubed steak and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes or wide egg noodles It is also wonderful with a hunk of crusty bread to sop up every drop Add steamed green beans or roasted carrots for a full meal
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History in a Bite
Cubed steak is a classic southern comfort food made popular during times when families needed to maximize what they had on hand The slow cooker version keeps all the homey character with even less effort reminding us that some traditions really never go out of style
Make this Crock Pot Cubed Steak once and you will see why it becomes a cherished family favorite The leftovers are just as good for an easy next day meal
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of meat works best for this dish?
Cubed steak with good marbling is preferred as it stays juicy and tender during slow cooking. Thinly sliced round steak or pork cutlets are suitable substitutes if needed.
- → How can I thicken the gravy perfectly?
Mix cornstarch with cold water separately before adding to the slow cooker. Stir gently and cook uncovered on high for 30 minutes until the gravy reaches a glossy, thick consistency.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, leftovers keep well in airtight containers refrigerated for up to three to four days, and reheat beautifully on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen the gravy.
- → What sides pair well with this slow cooked meat?
This dish goes wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, wide egg noodles, or steamed and roasted vegetables, which also soak up the rich gravy excellently.
- → Is searing the meat necessary before slow cooking?
While optional, searing the cubed steak in a hot skillet before slow cooking adds deeper flavor and a richer brown color to the finished dish.
- → Can the gravy mix be substituted?
Yes, au jus gravy mix can be swapped for onion soup mix for a lighter taste, while cream of chicken soup can be changed to cream of mushroom or celery for different flavor profiles.