Cube steak, a cut of beef that’s been tenderized by pounding or using a machine to create small cuts, is a staple in many households. It’s an affordable and versatile option for a weeknight dinner, and when cooked correctly, it can be incredibly tender and flavorful. One of the best ways to cook cube steak is in a slow cooker, which allows the meat to simmer in its own juices for hours, resulting in a tender and delicious meal.
The Benefits of Cooking Cube Steak in a Slow Cooker
Cooking cube steak in a slow cooker offers several benefits. For one, it’s a hands-off approach to cooking, which means you can simply add the ingredients to the slow cooker in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat meal. This is especially convenient for busy households where time is of the essence.
Another benefit of cooking cube steak in a slow cooker is that it allows the meat to cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a tender and juicy texture. When cooked on the stovetop or in the oven, cube steak can sometimes become tough and dry, but the slow cooker’s low heat and moisture-rich environment help to break down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful final product.
Choosing the Right Cut of Cube Steak
When it comes to cooking cube steak in a slow cooker, it’s essential to choose the right cut of meat. Look for cube steak that’s been labeled as “top round” or “top sirloin,” as these cuts tend to be leaner and more tender. Avoid cube steak that’s been labeled as “chuck” or “brisket,” as these cuts can be tougher and more prone to drying out.
It’s also essential to choose cube steak that’s been tenderized correctly. Look for meat that’s been pounded or cut into small pieces, as this will help the meat cook more evenly and quickly.
Basic Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe
Here’s a basic recipe for cooking cube steak in a slow cooker:
Ingredients:
- 1-2 pounds cube steak
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Season the cube steak with salt and pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the cube steak until browned on both sides.
- Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened.
- Add the garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and add the browned cube steak.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations on the Basic Recipe
One of the best things about cooking cube steak in a slow cooker is that you can customize the recipe to suit your tastes. Here are a few variations on the basic recipe:
- Mushroom Gravy: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onion and cook until softened. Then, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add 1 cup of beef broth to the skillet, whisking constantly, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
- Italian-Style: Add 1 cup of marinara sauce to the slow cooker with the cube steak and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Serve with pasta or garlic bread.
- Spicy: Add 1-2 diced jalapenos to the skillet with the onion and cook until softened. Then, add 1 teaspoon of chili powder to the slow cooker with the cube steak and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
Tips for Cooking Cube Steak in a Slow Cooker
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when cooking cube steak in a slow cooker:
- Brown the Meat: Browning the cube steak before adding it to the slow cooker is essential for creating a rich and flavorful final product. This step helps to create a crust on the meat that’s full of flavor and texture.
- Use the Right Liquid: Using the right liquid is essential for cooking cube steak in a slow cooker. Beef broth is a good option, but you can also use wine, beer, or even soda.
- Don’t Overcook: Cube steak can become tough and dry if it’s overcooked. Make sure to cook the meat on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, and check it periodically to ensure it’s not overcooking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking cube steak in a slow cooker:
- Not Browning the Meat: Failing to brown the cube steak before adding it to the slow cooker can result in a final product that’s lacking in flavor and texture.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Using too much liquid can result in a final product that’s soggy and unappetizing. Make sure to use the right amount of liquid and adjust as needed.
- Overcooking: Overcooking the cube steak can result in a final product that’s tough and dry. Make sure to cook the meat on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, and check it periodically to ensure it’s not overcooking.
Conclusion
Cooking cube steak in a slow cooker is a deliciously tender solution for a weeknight dinner. By following the basic recipe and customizing it to suit your tastes, you can create a meal that’s full of flavor and texture. Remember to brown the meat, use the right liquid, and avoid overcooking to ensure a tender and juicy final product. With these tips and variations, you’ll be well on your way to creating a slow cooker cube steak recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
| Slow Cooker Cube Steak Recipe Variations | Description |
|---|---|
| Mushroom Gravy | Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onion and cook until softened. Then, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually add 1 cup of beef broth to the skillet, whisking constantly, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the gravy thickens. |
| Italian-Style | Add 1 cup of marinara sauce to the slow cooker with the cube steak and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Serve with pasta or garlic bread. |
| Spicy | Add 1-2 diced jalapenos to the skillet with the onion and cook until softened. Then, add 1 teaspoon of chili powder to the slow cooker with the cube steak and cook on low for 8-10 hours. |
By following these tips and variations, you’ll be able to create a delicious and tender slow cooker cube steak recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
What is cube steak and how does it benefit from slow cooking?
Cube steak is a type of steak that has been tenderized by pounding or using a machine to create small cuts in the meat. This process breaks down the fibers, making the steak more tender and easier to chew. Slow cooking cube steak is an ideal way to prepare this cut of meat, as the low heat and moisture help to break down the fibers even further, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.
The slow cooking process also allows the flavors of any seasonings or sauces to penetrate deep into the meat, making each bite a delicious and savory experience. Additionally, slow cooking is a great way to cook cube steak because it eliminates the risk of overcooking, which can make the meat tough and dry. By cooking the steak low and slow, you can achieve a tender and juicy texture that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What are the benefits of cooking cube steak in a slow cooker?
Cooking cube steak in a slow cooker offers several benefits, including convenience, ease of preparation, and tender results. One of the main benefits of using a slow cooker is that it allows you to cook the steak while you are busy with other tasks, such as work or taking care of the family. Simply season the steak, add it to the slow cooker with your choice of sauce or seasonings, and let the slow cooker do the work for you.
Another benefit of cooking cube steak in a slow cooker is that it is a hands-off process, requiring minimal effort and attention. This makes it an ideal option for busy home cooks who want to prepare a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Additionally, the slow cooker’s low heat and moisture help to break down the fibers in the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish that is sure to become a family favorite.
How do I prepare cube steak for slow cooking?
To prepare cube steak for slow cooking, start by seasoning the steak with your choice of herbs and spices. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend or create your own using a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other spices. Next, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the steak for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until browned. This step helps to create a flavorful crust on the steak and adds texture to the finished dish.
After searing the steak, add it to the slow cooker with your choice of sauce or seasonings. You can use a store-bought sauce or create your own using a combination of broth, wine, and spices. Make sure to add enough liquid to the slow cooker to cover the steak, as this will help to keep the meat moist and tender during the cooking process. Finally, cover the slow cooker and cook the steak on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
What are some popular seasonings and sauces for cube steak?
There are many popular seasonings and sauces that you can use to flavor cube steak, depending on your personal preferences and the type of dish you are trying to create. Some popular options include Italian seasoning, garlic and herbs, and spicy Cajun seasoning. You can also use a variety of sauces, such as marinara, BBQ sauce, and mushroom gravy, to add flavor and moisture to the steak.
When choosing a seasoning or sauce, consider the type of dish you are trying to create and the flavors you want to feature. For example, if you are making a classic comfort food dish, you may want to use a simple seasoning blend and a rich, savory sauce. On the other hand, if you are making a spicy or international-inspired dish, you may want to use a bold seasoning blend and a flavorful sauce.
Can I cook cube steak in a slow cooker with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook cube steak in a slow cooker with other ingredients, such as vegetables, potatoes, and noodles. In fact, adding other ingredients to the slow cooker can help to create a hearty and satisfying meal that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Some popular ingredients to cook with cube steak include sliced onions and bell peppers, diced potatoes, and egg noodles.
When cooking cube steak with other ingredients, make sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid levels accordingly. For example, if you are adding a lot of vegetables to the slow cooker, you may need to add more liquid to prevent the dish from drying out. You should also adjust the cooking time based on the ingredients you are using, as some ingredients may take longer to cook than others.
How do I serve cube steak cooked in a slow cooker?
Cube steak cooked in a slow cooker can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preferences and the type of dish you are trying to create. Some popular ways to serve cube steak include slicing it thinly and serving it with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, serving it with a side of noodles or rice, and using it in sandwiches or wraps.
You can also serve cube steak with a variety of sauces and toppings, such as marinara sauce, BBQ sauce, and sautéed onions and mushrooms. Additionally, you can use cube steak in a variety of dishes, such as salads, soups, and stews. The key is to be creative and experiment with different serving options to find the one that works best for you.
Can I freeze cube steak cooked in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can freeze cube steak cooked in a slow cooker, making it a great option for meal prep and planning. To freeze the steak, simply cook it in the slow cooker as desired, then let it cool completely. Once the steak is cool, slice it thinly and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can also freeze the steak with the sauce or seasonings, making it easy to reheat and serve later.
When reheating frozen cube steak, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in the microwave or oven. You can also reheat the steak in the slow cooker, making it a great option for a quick and easy meal. Just be sure to reheat the steak to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.