There’s something truly comforting about coming home to the rich aroma of slow-cooked goodness wafting through the air. After a long day, I often find myself craving a hearty meal that doesn’t require much effort but delivers on flavor. Enter my go-to recipe: Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy. This dish is the epitome of simplicity and satisfaction, transforming tender cubed steaks into a melt-in-your-mouth experience, bathed in a deliciously creamy gravy.
I stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week when I desperately needed a crowd-pleaser my family would love. The best part? With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, I set my slow cooker on low and let it work its magic. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply someone bored with the routine of fast food, this recipe offers a delightful escape into homemade comfort without the hassle. So let’s dive into the details and elevate your dinner game with this irresistible dish!
Why will you love Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy?
Comforting aroma: Imagine coming home to the welcoming scent of savory steaks cooking slowly to perfection.
Effortless preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while it transforms into a delicious meal.
Melt-in-your-mouth texture: The cubed steak becomes incredibly tender, making it a family favorite.
Rich, creamy gravy: The combination of cream of chicken and French onion soup creates a decadent sauce that pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or noodles.
Versatile serving options: Whether served over rice, potatoes, or alongside your favorite veggies, this dish fits any occasion!
Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy Ingredients
• For the Gravy:
- 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup – ensures a rich and creamy base.
- 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup – adds depth and flavor to the gravy.
- 1 packet au jus gravy mix – boosts the savory profile of your sauce.
- 1 1/2 cups water – helps achieve the perfect consistency for the gravy.
• For the Steak:
- 4 cubed steaks (about 2 lbs total) – choose well-marbled cuts for tenderness.
- 1 large onion (sliced) – infuses the dish with sweetness as it cooks.
- 6 oz button mushrooms (sliced, optional) – adds an earthy note if desired.
• For Thickening the Gravy:
- 3 Tbsp cornstarch – thickens the gravy for a luxurious texture.
- 3 Tbsp cold water – creates a smooth slurry for easy mixing.
This Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy is a meal that brings warmth and comfort, waiting for you to savor it at the end of a long day!
How to Make Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy
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Prepare the slow cooker: Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray. This ensures that nothing sticks and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Whisk the gravy: In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, au jus gravy mix, and water until smooth. This creamy mixture is the foundation of your savory gravy!
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Layer the steaks: Place the cubed steaks in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible. Add the sliced onion and optional mushrooms on top, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
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Add the gravy mixture: Pour the gravy mixture over the steaks, cover, and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4–6 hours. Cook until the cubed steaks are fork-tender, and the gravy has absorbed all the delicious flavors.
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Thicken the gravy: About 30 minutes before serving, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker, turn it to HIGH, and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes until the gravy has thickened.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve the cubed steak and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles. Don’t forget to spoon extra gravy on top for that delightful finish!
Optional: Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy?
Transform your delicious slow-cooked steak into a well-rounded meal with these perfect pairings that will leave everyone satisfied.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth, buttery texture of mashed potatoes soaks up the rich gravy beautifully, creating a comforting bite.
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Garlic Toast: The crusty, toasted bread is ideal for mopping up every bit of gravy, making sure not a drop goes to waste.
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Sautéed Green Beans: Fresh, crunchy green beans provide a wonderful contrast in texture, bringing a pop of color and brightness to your plate.
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Egg Noodles: This classic pairing offers a soft base, perfectly holding the savory gravy, making it feel like a warm hug in bow-tie form.
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Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the hearty meat with a tangy kick that excites the palate.
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Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness enhances the savory notes of the cubed steak and gravy, adding depth and variety to your meal.
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Red Wine: A smooth glass of red wine brings out the flavors of the dish, creating a comforting and elegant dining experience.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of rich chocolate cake is a delightful way to finish the meal, perfectly contrasting the savory flavors with sweet indulgence.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy
- Layering Matters: Ensure the cubed steaks are placed in a single layer for even cooking, avoiding tough spots and delivering perfect tenderness.
- Gravy Consistency: If your gravy seems too thin after thickening, allow it to cook a bit longer on HIGH; the slow cooker transforms it into a rich sauce that elevates your meal.
- Onion and Mushroom Pairing: To enhance flavor, sauté onions and mushrooms in a pan before adding them to the slow cooker; this deepens their taste in the final dish.
- Avoid Overcooking: Cooking on LOW for too long can lead to dry meat; check your steaks after the minimum cooking time to ensure they remain juicy.
- Customize Your Gravy: Experiment with different soup or gravy mixes for unique flavors; this Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy recipe is versatile and invites your personal touch!
Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on this comforting dish and create something unique that your family will adore!
- Dairy-Free: Swap cream of chicken soup with a plant-based alternative to keep it creamy without dairy.
- Mushroom Lovers: Introduce different mushrooms like shiitake or portobello for a deeper, earthier flavor profile. They elevate the dish beautifully!
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an unexpected heat that dances on your palate. This simple addition can truly ignite the flavors.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in diced carrots or celery along with the onions for extra veggies and sweetness; your meal just got even heartier!
- Beefy Flavor Boost: Incorporate a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an incredible depth of flavor that enhances the savory notes of the dish.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh thyme or rosemary added during cooking imparts a fragrant aroma and elevates the overall taste. Your kitchen will smell divine!
- Sour Cream Finish: Stir in a dollop of sour cream right before serving for a creamy texture and tangy kick that contrasts beautifully with the gravy.
- Cranberry Twist: For a holiday vibe, mix in a can of cranberry sauce with the gravy mixture; it adds a festive sweetness that surprises and delights.
So go on, unleash your culinary creativity! Each variation can turn your Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy into a completely new dining experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the steak and gravy mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply whisk together the cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, au jus gravy mix, and water, then layer it over the cubed steaks, sliced onion, and optional mushrooms in the slow cooker. Cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When you’re ready to serve, simply set the slow cooker to LOW and cook for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4–6 hours. This way, you can enjoy a comforting homemade meal without the last-minute rush, keeping it just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy
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Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving cooked cubed steak and gravy at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cubed steak and gravy in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: To reheat, place the defrosted gravy and steak in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water if the gravy is too thick.
Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cubed steak?
Absolutely! When selecting cubed steak, look for cuts with good marbling, as the fat will melt during cooking and enhance tenderness. Avoid any pieces with dark spots or a dry appearance, which may indicate aging or poor quality.
How should I store leftover Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy?
For sure! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep them longer, make sure to freeze the leftovers. Just let them cool completely before sealing them properly to maintain their flavor.
Can I freeze Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy?
Yes! To freeze, first let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and then gently reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick.
What should I do if my gravy is too thin after cooking?
Not to worry! If your gravy hasn’t thickened as much as you’d like, whisk together 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 tablespoons of cold water in a separate bowl to create a slurry. Stir your slurry into the slow cooker, turn it to HIGH, and let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until the perfect consistency is achieved.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Very good question! If you have dietary restrictions or allergies, be cautious of the ingredients, particularly the soups and gravy mixes, as they can contain gluten, preservatives, or allergens like dairy. If you’re cooking for pets, it’s best to avoid sharing seasoned meats or gravies with them, as they can be harmful.
How can I ensure my cubed steaks remain tender?
Ah, the secret lies in the cooking time! Avoid overcooking the cubed steaks on LOW; check for tenderness after 6 hours. If cooking on HIGH, start checking around 4 hours. Cooking just long enough allows the connective tissues to break down, leading to that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Irresistibly Tender Crockpot Cubed Steak and Gravy Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Spray the inside of your slow cooker with cooking spray.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, au jus gravy mix, and water until smooth.
- Place the cubed steaks in the slow cooker in a single layer if possible. Add the sliced onion and optional mushrooms on top.
- Pour the gravy mixture over the steaks, cover, and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4–6 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to make a slurry and stir it into the slow cooker.
- Turn it to HIGH and cook for an additional 20–30 minutes until the gravy has thickened.
- Serve the cubed steak and gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
