This Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy is a deliciously simple, comfort-food classic. The cubed steaks cook slowly in a savory gravy that thickens beautifully as it simmers, making for a tender and flavorful meal. Perfect for busy days, this dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even noodles. It’s also a budget-friendly meal that delivers great flavor!
Ingredients:
- 4-6 cubed steaks (about 1-1.5 lbs)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (you can use cream of chicken if preferred)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or use your own homemade ranch seasoning mix)
- 1 packet brown gravy mix (about 0.87 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth (for extra flavor, you can use low-sodium broth)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Steak:
- Start by placing the cubed steaks in the bottom of your Crockpot. Arrange them in a single layer, but if they’re large pieces, you can cut them into smaller sections. Cubed steaks are typically tenderized cuts, but this slow-cooking method will make them incredibly soft and easy to shred once done.
- Prepare the Gravy Mixture:
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, ranch seasoning mix, brown gravy mix, and beef broth. Stir the mixture well to ensure the gravy mix is fully dissolved into the broth. The combination of these ingredients creates a thick, flavorful gravy that will cook down to perfection.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Pour the prepared gravy mixture evenly over the cubed steaks in the Crockpot, making sure the steaks are well-coated. If you’re adding any vegetables like onions or mushrooms, this is the time to do so. Just toss them in with the steak and gravy mixture.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the Crockpot with the lid and set it to low heat. Let it cook for 6-8 hours. The longer you cook, the more tender the steaks will become. During the cooking process, the gravy will thicken and the flavors will meld together.
- Stir and Serve:
- Once the steaks are tender and the gravy has thickened to your liking, give the mixture a good stir. If you’d like a thicker gravy, you can leave it uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce slightly.
- Serve your cubed steak and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles. Add a side of steamed veggies, and you’ve got yourself a complete, hearty meal.
Q & A:
Q: Can I make this with a different cut of beef?
A: Yes, you can! If you prefer, you can substitute the cubed steaks with other cuts like chuck roast, round steak, or sirloin. Keep in mind that tougher cuts may need additional time to cook until tender, and you might need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I use a different type of soup?
A: Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of chicken, cream of celery, or even a cheese-based soup for a different flavor profile.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: To add a kick of spice, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the gravy mix. You can also throw in some sliced jalapeños or chili flakes for extra heat!
Q: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can add vegetables! For a heartier meal, add sliced onions, carrots, or mushrooms directly into the Crockpot with the steak. If you add potatoes, consider slicing them thinly to ensure they cook properly in the slow cooker.
Q: What if I don’t have beef broth?
A: You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or even vegetable broth. If you want extra flavor, you can also use a combination of water and a beef bouillon cube.
Benefits:
- Hands-Off Cooking: Once everything is in the Crockpot, you can forget about it and let the slow cooker do all the work! It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a meal ready after a long day.
- Tender, Flavorful Meat: The slow cooking process ensures the cubed steak becomes tender and absorbs all the savory flavors of the gravy, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
- Comforting and Hearty: This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner. Paired with mashed potatoes or rice, it’s a filling meal that will satisfy your hunger and keep you warm on cold days.
- Budget-Friendly: Cubed steak is an affordable cut of beef, and with just a few pantry staples, you can create a delicious, cost-effective meal that feeds the whole family.
- Versatile: The basic recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables or seasonings, or even use a different type of soup or broth for a unique twist.
Easy Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting, no-fuss meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a hearty dish for a gathering, this recipe will not disappoint! Enjoy the tender steak, creamy gravy, and delicious sides—it’s a meal everyone will love!