Name: Slow Cooker Cube Steak: The Easy Comfort Food You’ll Crave
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Ingredients: Cube steak: About 4–6 pieces, depending on your family size.; Onion: One medium, sliced thinly.; Cream of mushroom soup: Two cans for that creamy, dreamy gravy.; Beef broth: About 1 cup, for a flavorful base.; Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon for a little kick.; Salt and pepper: To taste.; Optional: Worcestershire sauce, fresh mushrooms, or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.

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If you’ve never tried slow cooker cube steak, you’re in for a treat. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. You know, the kind of dinner that makes the whole house smell amazing and gets everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”

This dish is ridiculously simple but packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will fit right into your dinner rotation. So grab your slow cooker and let’s get into it!

Cube steak with onion gravy, mashed potatoes, and corn on a plate, garnished with fresh thyme.

Why Cube Steak Works Perfectly in a Slow Cooker

Cube steak is budget-friendly and super versatile. If you’re not familiar, it’s usually a cut of top round or top sirloin that’s been tenderized with a meat mallet (hence the cube-like texture). It can be tough if cooked quickly, but the slow cooker works its magic, turning it into a tender, melt-in-your-mouth dish.

The low-and-slow method also lets all the flavors mingle, which means you get a rich, savory gravy without much effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this hearty dish:

Cube steak: About 4–6 pieces, depending on your family size.
Onion: One medium, sliced thinly.
Cream of mushroom soup: Two cans for that creamy, dreamy gravy.
Beef broth: About 1 cup, for a flavorful base.
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon for a little kick.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Optional: Worcestershire sauce, fresh mushrooms, or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

Start by seasoning your cube steak with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If you’ve got the time, you can even give it a quick sear in a hot skillet with a little oil. This adds a nice caramelized flavor, but honestly, it’s not mandatory.

2. Layer in the Slow Cooker

Lay half the sliced onions at the bottom of your slow cooker. Add a layer of cube steak, then pour over some cream of mushroom soup. Repeat the layers until everything’s in there.

3. Add the Liquid

Pour in the beef broth, making sure it spreads evenly. If you’re using Worcestershire sauce or any other add-ins, toss them in now.

4. Set It and Forget It

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6–8 hours. (If you’re short on time, you can crank it up to high for 3–4 hours, but low is better for tenderizing the meat.)

5. Serve It Up

When it’s done, give the gravy a quick stir. Serve the cube steak over mashed potatoes, rice, or even buttered egg noodles. Don’t forget a veggie on the side—steamed green beans or roasted carrots pair perfectly.

Cooked cube steaks in a savory mushroom sauce with fresh parsley in a slow cooker.

Pro Tips for the Best Cube Steak

Don’t skip the onions. They add a natural sweetness that balances the savory flavors.
Use cream of onion soup. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, swap it out for something else creamy.
Make it thicker. For a thicker gravy, whisk in a little cornstarch or flour about 30 minutes before serving.
Double the recipe. Leftovers taste amazing, and you can freeze them for later.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Low effort, high reward: You basically dump everything in and let it cook itself.
Budget-friendly: Cube steak is affordable, and you probably have most of the ingredients in your pantry.
Customizable: Add your favorite herbs, swap out the soup, or throw in some veggies—make it your own!
Crowd-pleaser: This is comfort food at its finest. Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.

A plate of cube steak with onion gravy, mashed potatoes, and corn.

Variations to Try

Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne for some heat.
Vegetable boost: Throw in carrots, celery, or peas to make it a one-pot meal.
Southern-style: Use buttermilk in the gravy and serve with cornbread on the side.

For more delicious steak options, check out our Delmonico Steak and Pork Steak recipes!

A Quick Anecdote: My First Try at Cube Steak

Okay, so I’ll admit, the first time I made cube steak, I had no clue what I was doing. I didn’t realize it needed slow cooking, so I pan-fried it like a regular steak. Let me just say… it was like chewing on a leather shoe. After that, I got smart and let the slow cooker do the work. Now, it’s one of my go-to recipes for busy weekdays (or lazy weekends).

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Cube Steak

Here’s what pairs perfectly with this meal:

Mashed potatoes: Because gravy deserves a fluffy pillow.
Rice: Soaks up every bit of that rich sauce.
Dinner rolls: Perfect for mopping up the plate.
Steamed veggies: Balance out the richness with something fresh.

How to Choose the Best Cube Steak for Your Slow Cooker

When shopping for cube steak, look for pieces that are evenly tenderized and have minimal fat. While cube steak is typically an affordable cut, the quality of the meat can still make a big difference. Ask your butcher if the meat comes from top round or sirloin, as these cuts tend to hold up best during slow cooking. If you’re planning to make this recipe for a special occasion, you might even want to try grass-fed cube steak for an added flavor boost.

Can You Overcook Cube Steak in a Slow Cooker?

One of the best things about slow cooker cube steak is how forgiving it is. However, it’s still possible to overcook it. In fact, leaving it on high heat for too long can dry it out or cause it to fall apart completely. Moreover, overcooking can result in a mushy texture, which isn’t ideal.

To avoid this, stick to the recommended cook times—6–8 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high. Additionally, if you need to keep the dish warm after it’s done, switch your slow cooker to the “warm” setting instead of continuing to cook it. This way, the steak stays tender and flavorful without losing its texture.

Make It a Meal with These Slow Cooker Cube Steak Side Dishes

Pairing the right sides with slow cooker cube steak takes the dish from good to downright amazing. If mashed potatoes or rice feel too heavy, consider a light cucumber salad or roasted asparagus. The freshness of a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance out the richness of the gravy. And if you’re feeding a crowd, why not add a batch of slow-cooked baked beans or a skillet of cheesy cornbread to the mix?

Using Frozen Cube Steak in Your Slow Cooker

If you forgot to defrost your dice steak—no concerns! You can use frozen dice steak in your slow cooker with none issues. Just add an extra hour or in an effort to the cooking time on low warmth. The secret is to make certain the steak reaches a safe inner temperature of at least one hundred forty five°F. Some people want to rinse frozen steak underneath cold water to cast off any excess ice before adding it to the cooker, but it’s now not a must.

Why Slow Cooker Cube Steak Is Perfect for Meal Prep

If you’re someone who loves prepping meals ahead of time, slow cooker cube steak is a fantastic option. Make a big batch on the weekend, then store portions in airtight containers for easy reheating throughout the week. The gravy keeps the meat moist, so it reheats in the microwave or on the stovetop. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve in different ways—over pasta one night, in a sandwich the next, or even on top of a baked potato.

Adding Vegetables to Your Slow Cooker Cube Steak

Want to make your slow cooker cube steak a one-pot meal? Toss in some hearty vegetables! Potatoes, carrots, and celery hold up well during long cook times and soak up the rich gravy, adding extra flavor to every bite. You also can blend in frozen peas or green beans over the last hour of cooking for a pop of shade and freshness.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Cube Steak

Does Cube Steak Get Tender the Longer It Cooks?

Yes, cube steak gets tender as it cooks low and slow. The slow cooker breaks down tough fibers, making it melt-in-your-mouth good. Avoid overcooking on high heat to keep it from falling apart.

Can You Put Steak in the Slow Cooker Raw?

Absolutely! Raw steak cooks safely in a slow cooker, absorbing all the flavors. Searing first adds extra flavor, but it’s optional if you’re in a hurry.

What Cut of Steak Is Best for Slow Cooking?

Cube steak is ideal for slow cooking, but cuts like chuck, brisket, and top round also work well. They become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.

Will Steak Go Soft in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, steak softens beautifully in a slow cooker. Low heat breaks down tough fibers, keeping it juicy. Just avoid overcooking on high heat.

Closing Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that’s simple to prepare, comforting, and bursting with flavor, slow cooker cube steak is your answer. In fact, it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Moreover, it’s so easy to customize that it fits perfectly into busy weeknight dinners or laid-back weekend meals.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your slow cooker and give it a try. Additionally, if you’ve got any creative twists or favorite sides to pair with this dish, let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about them! Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!

Slow Cooker Cube Steak: The Easy Comfort Food You’ll Crave

Print Recipe

This dish is ridiculously simple but packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will fit right into your dinner rotation

Author: Amélie
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings
Category: Dinner

Ingredients

Cube steak: About 4–6 pieces, depending on your family size.
Onion: One medium, sliced thinly.
Cream of mushroom soup: Two cans for that creamy, dreamy gravy.
Beef broth: About 1 cup, for a flavorful base.
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon for a little kick.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Optional: Worcestershire sauce, fresh mushrooms, or a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.