Prepare to be amazed by the tender, flavorful goodness of Slow Cooker Cubed Steak. This effortless recipe transforms simple ingredients into a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let your slow cooker do the work as the savory aromas fill your home, promising a delicious dinner that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 6 cubed steaks (can substitute based on preferences)
- 1 onion, sliced into rings
- 1 can cream of celery soup
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 packet Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- ½ can of water
- ¼ teaspoon black peppe
Instructions:
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Lightly grease the bottom of your slow cooker to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the sliced onion rings evenly at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Layer the Cubed Steaks:
- Place the cubed steaks on top of the sliced onions in a single layer.
- Mix the Soup Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, combine the cream of celery soup, cream of chicken soup, Lipton Onion Soup Mix, water, and black pepper. Stir until well blended.
- Pour Over the Steaks:
- Pour the soup mixture evenly over the cubed steaks, ensuring that they are well covered.
- Slow Cook to Perfection:
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the cubed steaks are tender and cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the cubed steaks are cooked to perfection, serve them hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables.
- Spoon some of the flavorful gravy from the slow cooker over the steaks and enjoy the comforting goodness of this delicious meal!
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Meat Substitutions: If cubed steaks aren’t available, you can use round steaks or beef stew meat cut into cubes for a similar result.
- Extra Flavor Boost: For an extra burst of flavor, add minced garlic or Worcestershire sauce to the soup mixture before pouring it over the steaks.
- Thickening the Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can mix 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a small amount of water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish the finished dish with chopped fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color and freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use homemade cream soups instead of canned?
- Absolutely! If you prefer homemade cream soups, you can substitute them for the canned versions in this recipe. Simply prepare a batch of cream of celery and cream of chicken soups according to your favorite recipes, and use them as directed.
- What can I serve with slow cooker cubed steak?
- Slow cooker cubed steak pairs well with a variety of sides, including mashed potatoes, rice, egg noodles, or steamed vegetables. The savory gravy from the slow cooker is perfect for drizzling over your chosen side dishes.
- Can I freeze leftover cubed steak and gravy?
- Yes, you can freeze leftover cubed steak and gravy for future meals. Allow the cooked steak and gravy to cool completely, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. Be sure to label them with the date and contents before storing them in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- What other seasonings can I add to the soup mixture?
- Feel free to customize the flavor of the soup mixture to suit your taste preferences. You can add herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or parsley for additional depth of flavor, or spice it up with a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
- While cubed steak is traditional for this recipe, you can experiment with other cuts of beef such as stew meat, chuck roast, or even pork chops. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of meat you choose.
More Delicious Ideas:
- Cheesy Variation: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the cubed steaks during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist on this classic dish.
- Vegetable Additions: Enhance the nutritional value of the dish by adding sliced mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or carrots to the slow cooker along with the cubed steaks.
- Herb-infused Gravy: Stir in a tablespoon of fresh chopped herbs such as thyme or sage into the gravy just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
- Tex-Mex Twist: Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and a tablespoon of taco seasoning to the soup mixture for a Tex-Mex inspired version of this dish.
Slow Cooker Cubed Steak is the epitome of comfort food simplicity, offering tender, flavorful meat smothered in rich, savory gravy. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. With endless opportunities for customization and a hands-off cooking method, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy the delicious rewards of this effortless and satisfying meal
