Cube Steak Crock Pot Recipes
Comforting slow-cooked cube steak transformed into tender, juicy beef with simple ingredients and easy prep. Perfect for effortless, flavorful weeknight meals or batch cooking, offering a budget-friendly, one-pot homestyle dinner with minimal cleanup.
- Author: Barbara
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 to 1.5 pounds cube steak
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup canned tomatoes or tomato sauce
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (or Italian seasoning)
Optional Vegetables
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced
Optional Additions/Variations
- Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for spicy twist)
- Cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) for thickening gravy
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Additional low-carb veggies like zucchini and spinach
- Prep Your Cube Steak: Pat the cube steak dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to build flavor and prevent blandness during cooking.
- Sear the Meat (Optional but Recommended): Heat a little oil in a pan over medium-high heat and quickly brown the cube steak on both sides until caramelized, adding depth and richness to the final dish.
- Prepare the Crock Pot Base: Place chopped onions, minced garlic, and any optional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms into the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour in beef broth and canned tomatoes or tomato sauce to form a flavorful simmering base.
- Add Cube Steak and Slow Cook: Lay the browned or raw cube steak on top of the vegetables and broth. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender and infused with all flavors.
- Finish and Adjust Seasoning: After cooking, check the seasoning and add more salt or pepper if needed. To thicken the sauce, stir in a cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 15-30 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Notes
- Pat your meat dry to improve searing and enhance flavor.
- Searing is optional but highly recommended for richer taste.
- Layer flavors by adding fresh garlic and onions first for a sweet, aromatic base.
- Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil after cooking to brighten the dish.
- Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain heat and reduce cooking time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: cube steak, crock pot, slow cooker, easy dinner, comfort food, tender beef, budget meal, one pot