Are you tired of complicated dinners that take hours to prepare? Do you crave a delicious, healthy meal that’s also incredibly easy? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe for Crock Pot Round Steak is your answer. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor. Get ready for a tender, juicy round steak that practically melts in your mouth, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. This recipe is packed with flavor and is one of the best recipes for easy weeknight dinners.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs round steak, about 1-inch thick
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Steak (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor, start by searing the round steak. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Sear the steak for 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn’t essential, but it adds a delicious depth of flavor.
Step 2: Layer in the Crock Pot
Place the sliced onion in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with the seared (or unseared) round steak. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the steak.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Pour this mixture over the steak in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the steak is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. Serve the steak with the delicious sauce and your favorite sides. Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice are all excellent choices. This is a truly delicious dish, and a great example of healthy meals you can quickly make at home.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Round Steak:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Allow space around the steak for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the steak to ensure it reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker steaks may require longer cooking times.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include carrots, potatoes, or other root vegetables in the slow cooker with the steak for a complete one-pot meal.
- Use different soup: Experiment with cream of celery or cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Crock Pot Round Steak recipe is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's one of the easiest and best recipes you'll ever make, and a true testament to the power of slow cooking. Enjoy!