Tired of complicated weeknight dinners? Craving a delicious, tender meal that doesn't require hours of slaving over a hot stove? Then you've come to the right place! This slow cooker cube steak recipe is your new best friend. It's incredibly easy, unbelievably flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to experience the magic of effortless homemade cooking! This recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals made simple, offering a delicious and satisfying quick dinner idea.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cube steak (about 1-inch thick)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp cold water (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Steak (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor, start by searing the cube steak. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak for about 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a nice depth of flavor.
Step 2: Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place the seared (or unseared) cube steak in your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic around the steak.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over the steak and onions in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steak is incredibly tender.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker sauce, in a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Remove about 1/2 cup of the sauce from the slow cooker and whisk it into the cornstarch slurry. Pour the mixture back into the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cook for another 15-20 minutes on low, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the slow cooker cube steak over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy this delicious and easy meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Choosing your Cube Steak: Look for cube steaks that are evenly thick. Avoid those that are too thin, as they may become tough.
- Don't Overcook: Slow cookers are forgiving, but overcooking can result in dry meat. Check the steak for tenderness after the minimum cooking time.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or experiment with different herbs and spices.
Variations:
- Mushroom Medley: Add sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
- Creamy Garlic: Substitute cream of garlic soup for the cream of mushroom soup.
- BBQ Cube Steak: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with your favorite BBQ sauce for a tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 (depending on serving size and additions)
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This slow cooker cube steak recipe is a true testament to the ease and deliciousness of homemade cooking. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that are both quick and satisfying, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. Enjoy!