Ella Walter
Cooking frozen cube steak in a crock pot is a simple and delicious way to prepare this cut of meat. With just a few ingredients and a slow cooker, you can transform this tough cut of meat into a tender and juicy meal. Cube steak is a budget-friendly option, and cooking it slowly in a crock pot is a great way to ensure it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. This method also allows the flavours to develop and creates a rich, luscious gravy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of dish | Main course |
| Main ingredient | Cube steak |
| Other ingredients | Onion, mushroom, garlic, flour, pepper, salt, cornstarch, water, beef broth, mushroom soup, onion soup mix, gravy mix |
| Type of cuisine | American |
| Ideal for | Weeknight dinner |
| Preparation time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking time | 5-8 hours |
| Total time | 5 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes |
| Equipment | Slow cooker, crock pot |
| Doneness | Tender |
| Texture | Juicy |
| Serving | Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, or bread |
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What You'll Learn
Cooking time and temperature
The cooking time and temperature for frozen cube steak in a crock pot can vary depending on the desired level of tenderness and the size and number of pieces of meat. It is recommended to cook the steak on low heat for a longer period of time, typically between 6 to 8 hours, or even longer for maximum tenderness. However, if you are short on time, you can cook it on high heat for a shorter duration, usually between 3 to 4 hours.
When cooking frozen cube steak in a crock pot, it is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the number and size of the steak pieces. For smaller or fewer pieces, a cooking time of 5 to 6 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat may be sufficient. On the other hand, for larger or more numerous pieces, it is advisable to extend the cooking time to 7 to 9 hours on low heat or 5 to 6 hours on high heat.
It is worth mentioning that the cooking time for frozen cube steak in a crock pot can be flexible to some extent. If you prefer your steak to be extremely tender, it is recommended to cook it on low heat for a longer duration, even exceeding the standard 6 to 8 hours. This extended cooking time will ensure that the meat becomes fork-tender and can be easily pulled apart.
Additionally, the desired level of doneness can impact the cooking time. For a well-done steak, it is advisable to cook it for a longer duration, ensuring that the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C). For a medium or rare steak, shorter cooking times can be considered, adjusting the temperature accordingly.
Furthermore, the type of crock pot or slow cooker used can also influence the cooking time and temperature. Different models and brands may have varying heat settings and efficiencies, which can affect the overall cooking process. It is always recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines for specific information regarding your crock pot.
In summary, the cooking time and temperature for frozen cube steak in a crock pot can range from 5 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 6 hours on high heat, depending on the desired level of tenderness, the size and number of steak pieces, and the specific crock pot being used. Adjustments can be made based on personal preferences and the desired level of doneness.
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Tenderising the meat
Cube steak is a tough cut of meat, so it's important to use the right cooking method to ensure tender results. The best way to do this is to cook the meat slowly on a low heat for a long time. This can be achieved by using a crock pot or slow cooker.
The first step to achieving tender cube steak is to separate the individual steaks from one another and lay them inside the slow cooker, ensuring they are not overlapping too much. Next, you can add your choice of sauce or seasoning. A popular option is to use a packet of gravy mix, such as onion or brown gravy, combined with cream of mushroom soup and beef broth. You can also add sliced onions or onion powder for extra flavour.
After adding your desired seasonings, cover the crock pot and cook the steak on a low setting for an extended period of time, typically between 6 to 8 hours, or even longer. This extended cooking time at a low temperature helps to break down the tough fibres in the meat, making it tender and juicy.
If you are short on time, you can cook the cube steak on a high setting for a shorter duration, usually around 3 to 4 hours. However, for the most tender results, it is recommended to stick to a low and slow cooking method.
Once the cooking time is complete, you can serve the tender cube steak with your choice of sides. Mashed potatoes are a popular option, but you can also serve it with pasta, rice, or your favourite vegetables. The gravy created during the cooking process can be thickened by adding a mixture of water and cornstarch, and then poured over the meat and sides.
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Preparing the sauce
If you want to make a gravy sauce, you can use a combination of onion soup mix, cream of mushroom soup, and beef broth. You can also add a packet of brown gravy mix to thicken the sauce. Another option is to use a combination of cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, and au jus gravy mix. If you want a thicker gravy, you can add cornstarch mixed with cold water to your crockpot towards the end of the cooking process.
If you prefer a teriyaki sauce, simply pour your favourite teriyaki sauce over the cube steaks in the crockpot. You can also add other ingredients like mushrooms to your sauce for extra flavour.
Remember, the key to a successful crockpot cube steak recipe is to cook it on low heat for an extended period, allowing the meat to become tender and the sauce to thicken and develop flavour.
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Serving suggestions
Crock Pot Cube Steak is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to create a comforting and hearty meal. Here are some serving suggestions to accompany your tender cube steak:
Mashed Potatoes
For a classic and comforting combination, serve your crock pot cube steak with mashed potatoes. The creamy texture of mashed potatoes pairs perfectly with the tender steak and savoury gravy. This is a popular choice among those who have tried the recipe, creating a satisfying and indulgent meal.
Rice
Rice is a versatile side dish that can be paired with your crock pot cube steak. Whether you choose steamed rice or fried rice, it provides a blank canvas for the flavours of the steak and gravy to shine. It is a convenient option, as you can prepare a large batch and freeze it for easy weeknight meals.
Noodles
For a heartier option, serve your cube steak with egg noodles. The noodles provide a comforting base for the steak and gravy, creating a satisfying and flavourful dish. Simply prepare the noodles according to the package instructions while your gravy is thickening, and you'll have a delicious and easy meal.
Vegetables
To round out your meal, include some vegetable sides with your crock pot cube steak. You can choose options like Italian Green Beans, Bacon Garlic Green Beans, Maple Glazed Carrots, or steamed broccoli. These vegetables add a healthy and tasty element to your meal, providing a well-balanced dish.
Bread
Bread is another option to consider when serving crock pot cube steak. It can be a simple side to mop up the gravy, or you can create an open-faced sandwich for a heartier dish. This combination may bring back memories of comfort food and is a great way to enjoy the flavours of your tender cube steak.
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Reheating and storage
Leftover crockpot cube steak can be stored in an airtight container and refrigerated for up to 3 to 4 days. It is important to let the steak cool completely before storing it to avoid condensation in the container. If you want to keep it for a longer period, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Place the steak and gravy in a freezer-safe container or bag, and let it cool completely before sealing.
When reheating, you can thaw the steak overnight in the refrigerator and warm it up on the stove over low heat. You may need to add a splash of beef broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but make sure to cover it to maintain moisture. You can also dice the steak and add it to other dishes like fried rice or brisket mac and cheese.
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Frequently asked questions
For the best results, cook on low for 6-9 hours or on high for 5-6 hours.
You will need frozen cube steaks, sauce or seasoning of your choice, and water or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
Some good side dishes include mashed potatoes, rice, pasta, and vegetables such as Italian Green Beans, Bacon Garlic Green Beans, or Maple Glazed Carrots.
