Crock Pot Cubed Steak is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights. This easy recipe combines tender cubed steak with a rich and flavorful gravy, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. With minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
INGREDIENTS
- 10.75 ounce can cream of chicken soup: Adds creaminess and depth to the gravy.
- 10.5 ounce can French onion soup: Provides a rich, savory flavor.
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix: Enhances the meatiness of the dish.
- ½ cup water: Helps to create the perfect consistency for the gravy.
- 4 cubed steaks: The main protein component, becoming tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- 3 Tablespoons cornstarch: Used to thicken the gravy.
- 3 Tablespoons cold water: Combined with cornstarch to create a thickening slurry.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, combine 10.75 ounce can cream of chicken soup, 10.5 ounce can French onion soup, 1 packet au jus gravy mix, and 1/2 cup water. Stir well.
- Step 2:
- Put 4 cubed steaks into the gravy mixture and make sure they are coated well.
- Step 3:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the steak on low for 6-8 hours.
- Step 4:
- After cooking, it's time to thicken the gravy. In a small bowl, whisk together 3 Tablespoons cornstarch and 3 Tablespoons cold water.
- Step 5:
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the crock pot. You do not need to remove the cubed steaks to do this unless you find it easier to whisk it in. If removed, put the cubed steaks back in the pot as soon as you've mixed it in.
- Step 6:
- Turn the setting to high and cook for 30 minutes (until the gravy is thickened). Then serve!
Serving and Storage Tips
Crock Pot Cubed Steak is best served hot with its rich and savory gravy. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables, allowing the creamy gravy to complement and enhance the flavors of your side dishes. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top before serving.
If you have leftovers, store the cubed steak and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the steak and gravy gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of water or beef broth to thin the gravy to your desired consistency.
Helpful Notes
For a gluten-free version of this recipe, substitute the au jus gravy mix and cream of chicken soup with gluten-free alternatives. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can enhance the depth of flavor in the gravy. If you prefer a thicker gravy, increase the amount of cornstarch used in the thickening process. According to culinary experts, browning the cubed steaks in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker can add an extra layer of flavor and improve the overall texture of the dish.