Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy

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Tender, juicy, and bathed in rich brown gravy—Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is the kind of comforting, soul-soothing meal that tastes like home. Each bite of this slow-cooked dish melts in your mouth, as the cube steak absorbs all the flavors of savory beef broth, onions, and spices over hours of gentle cooking. It’s the kind of dinner that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and brings the whole family to the table without a second call.

Served with creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or even egg noodles, this dish is the ultimate definition of comfort food. Perfect for busy weekdays or lazy Sundays, it’s low-effort yet high-reward—thanks to the magic of the slow cooker. Just toss everything in, walk away, and return to a hearty, gravy-smothered dinner that feels like it took hours of attention (but didn’t).

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Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy

• Effortless Prep: Just a few steps to a deeply flavorful, slow-cooked meal.
• Affordable: Uses budget-friendly cube steak and pantry staples.
• Ultra-Tender Texture: The slow cooker turns tougher cuts into fork-tender bites.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, especially with mashed potatoes.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for prepping in the morning for an evening payoff.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy

To make this dish come together seamlessly, having the right tools on hand is just as important as the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool matters:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker (Crock Pot): The star of this recipe. It ensures a low, steady heat that tenderizes the cube steak over several hours while infusing it with flavor. A 6-quart cooker works best for even spacing.
• Mixing Bowl: Ideal for whisking together the gravy mix, broth, and soup before pouring over the meat. It helps to create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Tongs: Handy for transferring the raw cube steak into the slow cooker without mess or damage to the meat.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision matters when balancing flavors like beef broth, onion soup mix, and seasonings.
• Whisk: Helps blend the soup, broth, and gravy mixes into a velvety base, avoiding clumps.
• Knife & Cutting Board: For optional onions or fresh herbs if you like to enhance your gravy with a personal touch.

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Preparation Tips

• Trim the Cube Steak: Remove any excess fat or gristle if you prefer a leaner bite.
• Layer Strategically: Start with a bit of the gravy mixture on the bottom of the Crock Pot, then layer the cube steaks and pour more sauce over each one. This ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Sear for Flavor (Optional): If you have time, searing the cube steak in a hot pan before placing it in the Crock Pot adds a deep, caramelized layer of flavor.
• Let It Rest: Once cooked, allow the meat to rest in the gravy for 5–10 minutes with the lid off. This thickens the gravy slightly and intensifies the taste.
• Add-ons for Texture: Want a little extra texture? Toss in sliced mushrooms or onions during the last 1–2 hours of cooking.

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Ingredients for This Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy

This recipe keeps it simple with pantry staples and budget-friendly ingredients that transform into something rich and hearty. Here’s everything you’ll need:

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Main Ingredients:

• 4–6 cube steaks (about 2–2.5 lbs total): A budget-friendly cut of beef that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after slow cooking.
• 1 packet brown gravy mix: Adds deep, savory flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 packet onion soup mix: Delivers a punch of umami and seasoning with minimal effort.
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup: Adds creaminess and richness to the gravy.
• 2 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred): Builds the base of the gravy and keeps everything moist during the long cook.
• Salt & black pepper to taste: For seasoning the meat before it hits the pot.
• Optional: sliced onions or mushrooms: Add these if you want extra texture and earthiness.

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Garnish (Optional but Recommended):

• Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped: A fresh pop of color and light herby finish to balance the richness of the dish.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy

Slow cooker meals are all about ease, and this one is no exception. Follow these steps to get a rich, flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself.

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Step 1: Season the Cube Steaks

Lightly season both sides of the cube steaks with salt and black pepper. This base layer of seasoning helps enhance the beefy flavor during the slow cook.

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Step 2: Optional – Sear the Steaks

If you have a few extra minutes, sear the cube steaks in a hot skillet with a little oil until browned on both sides. This step is optional, but it adds a deeper, caramelized flavor to the final dish.

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Step 3: Mix the Gravy

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the brown gravy mix, onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth until smooth. Make sure there are no lumps.

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Step 4: Layer in the Crock Pot

Add a thin layer of the gravy mixture to the bottom of the Crock Pot. Then place 2–3 cube steaks over it (depending on the size of your pot). Pour some of the gravy mixture over the steaks, then repeat with the remaining steaks and sauce until everything is layered.

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Step 5: Add Extras (Optional)

If you’re including sliced onions or mushrooms, tuck them between the layers or sprinkle on top before the final layer of gravy.

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Step 6: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 4 hours, until the cube steaks are fork-tender and infused with flavor.

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Step 7: Rest and Serve

Once done, let the dish rest with the lid off for about 5–10 minutes. The gravy will thicken slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired, then serve hot over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles.

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Notes for Making the Best Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy

• Cube Steak Choice: While most grocery store cube steaks will work, try to choose ones with even thickness for uniform cooking.
• Gravy Customization: Prefer a thicker gravy? Reduce the broth slightly or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Soup Swap: If you’re not a fan of mushroom soup, substitute with cream of chicken or celery for a different twist.
• Flavor Boost: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of garlic powder can add another layer of savory depth.
• Serving Ideas: This dish is especially delicious served over mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even cheesy grits for something Southern-inspired.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcrowding the Crock Pot

Stacking too many steaks without space between them can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, cook in batches or ensure they’re layered with sauce in between.

Not Mixing the Gravy Ingredients Well

Lumps in the soup or dry gravy mix can lead to clumpy sauce. Whisk thoroughly before pouring.

Overcooking on High

While high heat gets things done faster, low and slow truly tenderizes cube steak. Stick to low heat for the best melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Skipping the Sear (if time allows)

Though optional, searing adds flavor complexity and helps lock in the juices.

Using High-Sodium Ingredients

With soup mix, gravy mix, and broth all potentially salty, choose low-sodium broth and go light on added salt until the end.

Forgetting the Rest Time

Letting the dish sit for a few minutes post-cook allows the gravy to thicken and the flavors to settle beautifully.

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What to Serve With Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy?

This rich, savory main dish begs for a delicious supporting cast. Whether you’re leaning cozy and classic or fresh and vibrant, these sides complement the tender steak and hearty gravy perfectly.

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8 Recommendations

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The ultimate pairing. Fluffy mashed potatoes soak up every bit of the luscious gravy—classic comfort food at its best.

2. Steamed White Rice or Brown Rice

If you prefer something lighter or gluten-free, rice makes a perfect base for the saucy steak and gives the meal a balanced finish.

3. Buttered Egg Noodles

These wide, tender noodles hold onto the gravy beautifully and are ideal for twirling with a forkful of cube steak.

4. Roasted or Steamed Broccoli

Add some green to the plate for balance. The freshness of broccoli pairs well with the richness of the dish.

5. Honey-Glazed Carrots

Slightly sweet and vibrant, they offer a pop of color and a tender bite alongside the savory steak.

6. Buttery Dinner Rolls or Biscuits

Use these to mop up any leftover gravy—it’s basically a requirement.

7. Simple Garden Salad

Lighten things up with a crisp salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette.

8. Garlic Green Beans

Sautéed or steamed green beans tossed with garlic and butter add crunch and a bright note to the plate.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy store beautifully, making it a fantastic meal for prepping ahead or enjoying the next day with just as much flavor.

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Refrigerator Storage

Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld and deepen overnight, making the dish even tastier the next day.

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Freezer Storage

To freeze, let the steak and gravy cool completely. Then transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. Label and date it. Store for up to 3 months.
To reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or in a microwave-safe dish until warmed through.

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Reheating Tips

• Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in 60-second intervals in the microwave to prevent overcooking the steak.
• Add a splash of beef broth or water if the gravy has thickened too much during storage.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

(Based on 6 servings; values may vary depending on specific brands and portion sizes.)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 900–1100mg
• Cholesterol: 75mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef instead of cube steak?

Yes, you can use round steak or even chuck roast sliced into thinner pieces. However, cube steak is preferred because it’s already tenderized and cooks beautifully in the slow cooker.

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2. Do I have to sear the cube steak first?

Nope, it’s optional! Searing adds a bit of extra flavor, but the dish turns out delicious even if you skip that step—especially if you’re short on time.

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3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use a gluten-free brown gravy mix, gluten-free soup, and broth. Many brands now offer gluten-free options.

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4. How do I thicken the gravy if it’s too thin?

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water, then stir it into the gravy about 30 minutes before cooking ends. Let it simmer uncovered if possible.

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5. Can I cook it on high to save time?

Yes, cook on HIGH for about 4 hours, but the texture will be slightly less tender compared to the low-and-slow method (6–8 hours on LOW).

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6. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat slowly on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to refresh the gravy if needed.

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7. Can I add vegetables to cook along with it?

Definitely! Onions, mushrooms, or even carrots can be added in with the steak to cook all day and absorb the gravy.

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8. Is this dish good for meal prep?

Yes! It stores and reheats well, making it ideal for batch cooking. Just portion out with your favorite starch and refrigerate or freeze for later meals.

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Conclusion

Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy is the definition of cozy, no-fuss comfort food. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it delivers tender, satisfying bites every time—making it a go-to weeknight dinner or hearty weekend treat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a low-effort meal with rich rewards, this recipe fits the bill.

Perfect with mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice, and easy to freeze or reheat, it’s a staple you’ll come back to again and again. Once you try it, it just might become your new favorite way to cook cube steak.

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