If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal, this Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy is perfect. The slow cooker tenderizes the cubed steak, while the combination of beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and onion soup mix creates a rich and savory gravy. This is a great dish to make on busy days as the slow cooker does most of the work. Serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even over egg noodles for a complete meal. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
1 to 1.5 pounds cubed steak (about 4 to 6 pieces)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 cups beef broth
1 can (10.75 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1 packet onion soup mix
1 onion, thinly sliced (optional)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Season and Dredge the Cubed Steak
Start by seasoning the cubed steak with salt and pepper on both sides. Then, dredge each piece of steak in all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess. This will help thicken the gravy and add a bit of crust to the meat.
Step 2: Brown the Cubed Steak
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed steak and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown. You don’t need to cook the steak all the way through; just get a nice crust on both sides. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish. Once browned, remove the cubed steak from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker
In the slow cooker, pour in the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and onion soup mix. Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. For added flavor, you can stir in garlic powder and dried thyme if you’re using them. If you like, add thinly sliced onions to the mixture for extra texture and flavor.
Step 4: Add the Cubed Steak
Place the browned cubed steak pieces into the slow cooker, making sure they are submerged in the gravy mixture. This will allow the steak to absorb the flavors while cooking and ensure it becomes tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Steak
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The longer cooking time on low will yield the most tender results, but both options will give you delicious, tender meat. Check the steak periodically to make sure it is cooking evenly and that the gravy is thickening as it should.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once the steak is fully cooked and tender, taste the gravy and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve the cubed steak and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles for a comforting and hearty meal.
Cooking Notes
- Thickening the gravy: If you find the gravy too thin after slow cooking, you can thicken it by whisking a tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the gravy and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until the gravy thickens.
- Skip the browning step: For a quicker preparation, you can skip browning the steak. However, browning adds extra flavor and texture to the dish, so it’s worth the extra step if you have time.
Variations
- Creamier gravy: For a creamier gravy, you can stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream or heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Add vegetables: For a complete meal in one pot, add carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms to the slow cooker. These vegetables will cook alongside the steak and absorb all the rich flavors of the gravy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use other cuts of steak for this recipe?
Yes! While cubed steak is traditional for this recipe because it’s affordable and becomes tender with slow cooking, you can use other cuts like round steak or even sirloin steak. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the steak and gravy in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or microwave in 30-second intervals.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Store cooled steak and gravy in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
This Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy is a classic comfort food that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy days. The tender steak and rich gravy pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice, making it a satisfying meal the whole family will love. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a regular in your rotation. Enjoy!
