Crockpot Cube Steak Recipe: Fall-Off-the-Bone Tenderness Every Time
Are you tired of tough, chewy cube steak? This crockpot cube steak recipe guarantees fall-off-the-bone tenderness, bursting with flavor, every single time. No more wrestling with tough meat – just delicious, easy comfort food perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal.
Why This Crockpot Cube Steak Recipe Works
This recipe leverages the magic of slow cooking to break down the tough connective tissues in cube steak, resulting in unbelievably tender results. We'll focus on simple ingredients and techniques to achieve maximum flavor without a lot of fuss. The key is a flavorful marinade and low and slow cooking.
Key Ingredients for Success:
- Cube Steak: About 1.5-2 pounds. Look for good quality, evenly cut steaks.
- Marinade: This is where the magic happens! We'll use a combination of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and your favorite seasonings to create a rich and savory base. Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs and spices!
- Crockpot: A slow cooker is essential for this recipe. The low and slow cooking method is what makes the cube steak so tender.
Step-by-Step Crockpot Cube Steak Recipe:
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
Yields: 4-6 servings
Ingredients:
- 1.5-2 pounds cube steak
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon brown sugar for extra depth of flavor
- Optional: 1 diced onion, 1 cup sliced mushrooms for added vegetables
Instructions:
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Marinate the Steak: In a large bowl, whisk together the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, olive oil, minced garlic (or garlic powder), onion powder, paprika, pepper, salt, and brown sugar (if using). Add the cube steak and ensure it's fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
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Slow Cook: Place the marinated cube steak in your crockpot. Pour the beef broth (or water) around the steak. Add any optional vegetables such as onions or mushrooms at this stage.
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Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steak is fork-tender and easily shreds.
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Serve: Remove the steak from the crockpot and shred it with two forks. You can serve it as is, or thicken the cooking liquid by making a gravy. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, noodles, or your favorite side dishes.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Cube Steak:
- Don't overcrowd the crockpot: Allow space for the steam to circulate.
- Thicken the gravy: For a richer sauce, remove the steak, then mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crockpot liquid and cook until thickened.
- Experiment with flavors: Add other herbs and spices to your marinade to customize the flavor. Consider adding a teaspoon of dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano for an earthier taste.
- Use a meat thermometer: For foolproof cooking, check the internal temperature of the steak. It should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Beyond the Basics: Serving Suggestions and Variations
This incredibly versatile recipe is perfect for:
- Steak Sandwiches: Shred the cube steak and pile it high on toasted rolls with your favorite toppings.
- Tacos: Use the shredded steak as a filling for delicious and easy tacos.
- Salads: Add shredded cube steak to your favorite salad for a protein boost.
- Pot Pies: Create a hearty pot pie using the shredded steak and your favorite vegetables.
This crockpot cube steak recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease, tenderness, and adaptability make it a staple for any home cook. Enjoy!
