Table of Contents
There’s something heartwarming about the smell of a savory meal simmering away in the kitchen, isn’t there? My love affair with crockpot cube steak and mushroom gravy began during a chilly fall afternoon, when I stumbled across a recipe that promised tender meat and rich flavors without much fuss. I tossed the ingredients into my slow cooker, set it, and forgot about it for a few hours—letting that magical pot do all the work. When dinnertime rolled around, I opened the lid to reveal steak so tender it practically melted in my mouth, enveloped in creamy, umami-packed mushroom gravy. I still remember the delight of the first bite, and the way the flavors wrapped around me like a warm, fuzzy blanket. That day, I knew this dish would be a staple in my home—and I promise, it will become a favorite in yours too!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set it and forget it: Throw everything into the crockpot, and let it work its magic while you carry on with your day!
- Tender and juicy: The long cooking time ensures the cube steak becomes incredibly tender.
- Flavor explosion: Cream of mushroom soup and beef broth meld together for a rich, hearty gravy.
- Comfort food classic: This dish is the ultimate cozy meal—perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings!
- Versatile sidekick: Pair it with mashed potatoes or rice for the perfect complete meal.
Ingredients
Cube Steak: Look for well-marbled cuts for maximum tenderness and flavor. It’s the star of this dish!
Onions: Sautéing these before adding them to the crockpot brings out their natural sweetness and adds a delicious depth to the gravy.
Cream of Mushroom Soup: This creamy base makes the gravy rich and luscious. You can choose low-fat versions if you prefer.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all the flavors. Don’t skip these—season well, my friends!
Garlic Powder: Adds just the right hint of garlicky goodness without overpowering the dish.
Beef Broth: This gives the gravy that rich, meaty flavor. Homemade is great, but store-bought works just as well!
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Season Your Steaks
Start by seasoning your cube steaks generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Pay attention to that delightful aroma as the spices mingle with the meat—so tempting!
2. Place in the Crockpot
Carefully layer the cube steaks at the bottom of your trusty crockpot. There’s something satisfying about arranging everything just right!
3. Sauté Those Onions
In a skillet over medium heat, sauté your sliced onions until they turn translucent and fragrant—around 5-7 minutes will do. This step adds an extra layer of flavor to your dish! Once they’re ready, pour them over the steaks, and inhale that delicious, savory scent.
4. Add in the Good Stuff
Now, it’s time to add the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth to the crockpot. Spoon everything in generously, mixing those delicious ingredients together.
5. Stir to Combine
With a wooden spoon, give everything a gentle stir to combine the ingredients well. Picture that delicious gravy coming to life!
6. Cover and Cook
Cover your crockpot and let it do its thing on low for 6-8 hours. During that time, the flavors will meld beautifully, and your house will smell like heaven.
7. Serve Up and Enjoy
Once it’s done cooking, dish it up over mashed potatoes or rice. Don’t forget to drizzle that fabulous mushroom gravy on top—this is where the magic happens!
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t rush it: The longer you let the cube steaks cook, the more tender they become.
- Sear the meat: If time permits, sear the cube steaks in a hot skillet before adding them to the crockpot for extra flavor.
- Experiment with flavors: Fresh herbs or a splash of Worcestershire sauce can elevate the dish even further.
Flavor Variations
- Mushroom Medley: Try adding different mushrooms like shiitake or cremini for varying textures and flavors.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Seasonal Veggies: Toss in some carrots or parsnips during cooking for added nutrition and flavor!
Serving Suggestions
This comforting dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or fluffy rice. Add a pop of color to your plate with a side of steamed green beans or a crisp salad. As for drinks? A nice red wine or a light ale complements the flavors wonderfully!
Make-Ahead & Storage
To prep ahead, season the steaks and chop the onions the night before. Store all ingredients in the fridge until you’re ready to toss them in the crockpot. This dish saves beautifully; it can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Leftovers
Got leftovers? Transform them into a delicious casserole by layering the cube steak and gravy over cooked pasta or rice, then topping it with cheese and baking until bubbly—delish!
Freezing
Yes, this dish can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply move it to the fridge overnight!
Reheating
For the best results, reheat on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too, just be sure to cover it to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken breasts will cook faster than cubed steak.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, if you use a gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free, this dish can be gluten-free friendly!
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours, but keep an eye on it to ensure the steak stays tender!
What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup?
No worries! You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or a homemade mushroom gravy instead.
Final Thoughts
Ah, my friends, there you have it—a cozy, heartwarming dish that wraps you in comfort with every bite. This Crockpot Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy will not only fill your belly, but it will fill your home with love and the smell of home-cooked goodness. Give it a try, and let it become a cherished recipe in your family, just like it is in mine! Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and delicious aromas!