If you are searching for a comforting, soul-satisfying meal that practically melts in your mouth, look no further than this delightful Crock Pot Cube Steak with Rich Onion Gravy Recipe. This dish brings together tender cube steaks simmered slowly in a luscious onion gravy that’s perfectly seasoned and velvety smooth. What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly you can prepare it and let your slow cooker do all the work while filling your home with the most inviting aromas. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, this recipe promises a hearty, delicious meal that will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Crock Pot Cube Steak with Rich Onion Gravy Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role in developing the deep, rich flavors and silky texture. From the savory soups that form a decadent base for the gravy to the tender cube steaks that soak up every bit of goodness — every item is selected to create harmony on your plate.
- Beef gravy mix: This seasoning packet is key for that classic beef flavor and thickening the gravy.
- Cream of chicken soup (10.75 oz): Adds creamy richness and a smooth texture to the sauce.
- French onion soup (10.5 oz): Brings a wonderful, sweet onion depth that makes the gravy irresistibly flavorful.
- Water (1/2 cup): Helps blend all the gravy elements together for the perfect consistency.
- Cube steak (2 pounds): The star of the dish; tenderized beef that becomes wonderfully juicy after slow cooking.
- Cornstarch (3 tablespoons): Used to thicken the gravy to that ideal, glossy finish just before serving.
- Cold water (3 tablespoons): Mixed with cornstarch to create a slurry for thickening the sauce evenly.
How to Make Crock Pot Cube Steak with Rich Onion Gravy Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gravy Base
Start by combining the beef gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, and half a cup of water in a medium mixing bowl. Stir them together until smooth, then pour this flavorful gravy base right into the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker. This mixture becomes the luscious sauce your cube steaks will lovingly simmer in.
Step 2: Add the Cube Steaks
Next, gently nestle your cube steaks into the gravy mixture inside the slow cooker. Make sure the steaks are evenly spaced but still mostly submerged in the sauce — this will ensure they soak up all those lovely flavors throughout the long, slow cooking time.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low, letting those cube steaks cook for six to eight hours. The low, steady heat breaks down the meat’s fibers, resulting in an unbelievably tender texture. Halfway through the cooking process, turn the steaks over in the gravy to ensure they’re evenly coated and flavored on all sides.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy
When your steaks are perfectly tender and cooked through, it’s time to thicken that divine gravy. In a small bowl, whisk together cornstarch and cold water to make a smooth slurry. Remove the cube steaks from the slow cooker, leaving the delicious liquid behind, then stir the slurry into the gravy. Return the steaks to the slow cooker, increase the heat to high, and cook for an additional 30 minutes. This final step thickens the sauce into a glossy, rich onion gravy that clings to every bite of steak.
How to Serve Crock Pot Cube Steak with Rich Onion Gravy Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this hearty dish beautifully. Try sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over the steak and gravy to add a pop of color and a fresh herbal note. Crispy fried onions on top add delightful crunch and amplify the onion flavor. These touches make the presentation inviting and make every forkful a taste experience.
Side Dishes
This Crock Pot Cube Steak with Rich Onion Gravy Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles that soak up the luscious gravy perfectly. Roasted vegetables like carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts bring brightness and texture contrast. For a lighter option, steamed rice or a crisp green salad also complement the dish nicely, balancing the rich gravy with fresh elements.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cube steak over a bed of buttery biscuits, turning it into a cozy pot pie-inspired meal. Alternatively, layer the sliced steak and gravy atop a savory bread pudding or creamy polenta to impress guests with unexpected flair. No matter how you plate it, the comforting flavors of this recipe shine through beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying this incredible Crock Pot Cube Steak with Rich Onion Gravy Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to four days. The flavors meld even more as it rests, making leftovers just as enjoyable as the first serving.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this dish freezes wonderfully. Place cooled cube steak and gravy in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Label and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a comforting meal, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the frozen or refrigerated Crock Pot Cube Steak with Rich Onion Gravy Recipe in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the gravy has thickened too much, stir in a splash of water or broth to reach the perfect consistency. You can also gently reheat it in the microwave, covered, stirring halfway through.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef instead of cube steak?
Absolutely! While cube steak is preferred for its tenderness when slow-cooked, you can use other thin, tender cuts like round steak or sirloin tips. Just be mindful of varying cook times and textures.
Is it necessary to turn the cube steaks during cooking?
Turning the steaks halfway through cooking helps ensure they cook evenly and remain fully coated in the flavorful gravy. It’s a simple step that really improves the final texture and taste.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot using the slow cook or pressure cook settings, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Pressure cooking will reduce the time considerably but keep an eye to avoid overcooking.
What can I substitute for the cream of chicken soup?
If you want a homemade spin, substitute with a simple mixture of chicken broth thickened with a roux made from flour and butter, or use a cream of mushroom soup if you prefer a different flavor base in the gravy.
How thick should the gravy be when finished?
The gravy should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon and cling nicely to the cube steaks without being overly gloopy. Adjust thickness by varying the cornstarch slurry amount or cooking time during the final step as needed.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Cube Steak with Rich Onion Gravy Recipe is truly one of those meals that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The tender, flavorful steak paired with that lush onion gravy is guaranteed to bring joy and comfort no matter the occasion. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the ease and delicious results that come with slow cooking.
Print
Crock Pot Cube Steak with Rich Onion Gravy Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Crock Pot Cube Steak with Gravy recipe offers tender, flavorful cube steaks cooked low and slow in a savory gravy made from beef gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, and French onion soup. Perfectly simple to prepare, this comforting dish is ideal for an easy and hearty meal with minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
For the Gravy and Cooking
- 1 packet beef gravy mix
- 10.75 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 10.5 ounce can French onion soup
- ½ cup water
- 2 pounds cube steak (about 4 cube steaks)
For Thickening the Gravy
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the Gravy Base: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the packet of beef gravy mix, cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, and ½ cup of water. Mix thoroughly until smooth, then pour this mixture into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add the Cube Steaks: Place the cube steaks evenly into the slow cooker over the prepared gravy mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
- Slow Cook the Steaks: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours. About halfway through the cooking time, turn the cube steaks in the gravy to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption. The steaks should be tender and fully cooked at the end of this period.
- Thicken the Gravy: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and 3 tablespoons cold water until smooth. Carefully remove the cube steaks from the slow cooker and set aside. Stir the cornstarch mixture into the gravy in the slow cooker. Return the steaks to the pot, turn the heat to high, and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency.
Notes
- Turn steaks halfway through cooking to ensure even flavor distribution and tenderness.
- Use a 6-quart slow cooker for best results to accommodate ingredients and allow proper cooking space.
- You can serve this dish with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables to complement the rich gravy.
- This recipe can be adapted by using different canned soups if preferred.
