When you’re craving a hearty, comforting dinner that practically cooks itself, crock pot cubed steak and gravy is the answer. Tender cubed steaks simmer all day in a rich, savory gravy until they’re fork-tender and melt in your mouth. This dish is the perfect weeknight dinner when you need something easy, affordable, and absolutely delicious.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know: what cubed steak is, how to prepare it for the crock pot, step-by-step instructions, serving ideas, tips for success, and even variations to try. By the end, you’ll be ready to make the best crock pot cubed steak and gravy you’ve ever tasted.
What is Cubed Steak?
Cubed steak, often called “minute steak,” is a cut of beef (usually top round or top sirloin) that has been mechanically tenderized. The surface of the meat is “cubed” with small indentations, which help break down tough fibers and allow flavors to seep in while cooking.
Because cubed steak can be a tougher cut, it’s often cooked low and slow—making the crock pot the perfect way to prepare it. Cooking cubed steak in gravy allows the meat to soak up moisture and flavor, turning it into a tender, comforting dish.
Why Make Crock Pot Cubed Steak and Gravy?
There are dozens of ways to prepare steak, but this slow-cooked version has unique benefits:
- Hands-Off Cooking: Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it work its magic.
- Tender and Flavorful: Low and slow cooking transforms tougher cuts of beef into juicy, tender bites.
- Budget-Friendly: Cubed steak is usually more affordable than ribeye, strip, or tenderloin cuts.
- Family Favorite: Kids and adults love it—especially when served with mashed potatoes or rice.
- Great for Busy Nights: Prep in the morning, come home to dinner ready and waiting.
Ingredients for Crock Pot Cubed Steak and Gravy
Here’s what you’ll need to make this classic comfort food:
- 4–6 cubed steaks (about 2 lbs)
- 1 packet onion soup mix (or homemade equivalent)
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1 cup beef broth (or water, but broth adds richness)
- 1 medium onion, sliced thin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, if needed)
Optional additions: sliced mushrooms, Worcestershire sauce, or fresh herbs like thyme.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crock Pot
Spray your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray or use a liner for easier cleanup.
Step 2: Layer the Steak
Place the cubed steaks in the bottom of the crock pot. You can overlap them slightly, but try not to stack too high.
Step 3: Mix the Gravy
In a bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, cream of chicken soup, onion soup mix, beef broth, garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika. Whisk until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble
Pour the gravy mixture over the cubed steaks. Add sliced onions (and mushrooms if using) on top.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. The longer cooking time on low heat will give you the most tender results.
Step 6: Thicken (Optional)
If you like thicker gravy, mix cornstarch and water into a slurry and stir it into the crock pot about 30 minutes before serving.
Step 7: Serve
Once done, serve the steak with plenty of gravy ladled over your favorite sides.
What to Serve with Crock Pot Cubed Steak and Gravy
This dish shines when paired with comforting, starchy sides that soak up the rich gravy. Some perfect choices include:
- Mashed Potatoes – The classic pairing. Creamy potatoes with savory gravy is unbeatable.
- Steamed White or Brown Rice – A lighter option that still soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Egg Noodles – Wide buttered noodles make for a cozy, hearty plate.
- Buttered Biscuits or Rolls – Great for sopping up leftover gravy.
- Vegetable Sides – Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or sautéed spinach balance the richness.
Tips for the Best Crock Pot Cubed Steak and Gravy
- Don’t Skip the Onion Soup Mix: It gives the gravy incredible depth. If you don’t have it, use beef bouillon and dried onion flakes.
- Brown the Steaks First (Optional): For extra flavor, quickly sear the cubed steaks in a skillet before adding them to the crock pot.
- Go Low and Slow: Cooking on low heat produces the most tender results.
- Adjust the Gravy Thickness: Too thin? Use a cornstarch slurry. Too thick? Stir in a splash more beef broth.
- Make It Your Own: Add Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or a splash of red wine for an extra savory kick.
Variations to Try
One of the best things about crock pot cubed steak and gravy is how customizable it is. Here are some delicious twists:
- Mushroom Lovers’ Version: Add 2 cups of fresh sliced mushrooms for earthy flavor.
- Creamy Herb Style: Stir in fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary at the end.
- Southern Style: Serve over buttermilk biscuits instead of potatoes.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soup mixes and cornstarch instead of flour.
Storing and Reheating
This dish is fantastic for leftovers because the gravy keeps the meat moist.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy thickens too much.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
The magic of this recipe is in the slow cooking process. Cubed steak, while budget-friendly, can be tough if not cooked properly. By letting it simmer in a flavorful gravy for hours, the connective tissues break down, leaving you with tender, juicy steak smothered in sauce.
The combination of cream soups, beef broth, and onion soup mix creates a gravy that is rich, savory, and comforting—the kind of flavor that reminds you of classic Sunday dinners at home.
Common Questions
1. Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes. Round steak, chuck steak, or sirloin tips can all be used. Just make sure to slice them thin if they’re not pre-cubed.
2. Do I need to tenderize cubed steak before cooking?
No. Cubed steak is already mechanically tenderized, so the crock pot does the rest of the work.
3. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, then quick release. Thicken the gravy after pressure cooking if needed.
4. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The creamy, savory flavors are mild enough for kids to love.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the ultimate crock pot cubed steak and gravy recipe, this one checks all the boxes. It’s easy, budget-friendly, family-approved, and tastes like something you’d find at a cozy diner. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.
So grab your slow cooker, a few pantry staples, and some cubed steak—you’re just hours away from one of the best comfort food meals you’ll ever make.