Slow Cooker Cubed Steaks: A Soul-Soothing Culinary Delight
Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of a hearty, slow-cooked meal that practically prepares itself. This Slow Cooker Cubed Steaks recipe promises just that—a tender, flavorful dish that melts in your mouth and soothes your soul. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is designed to be easy and enjoyable. Let’s dive into this delicious creation that pairs perfectly with creamy mashed potatoes and crisp green beans for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredients Overview
For the Slow Cooker Cubed Steaks:
- Cubed Steaks: 4-6 pieces, tender and perfect for slow cooking.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: 1 tsp each, for deep, savory flavors.
- Black Pepper: 1 tsp, freshly ground for a bit of bite.
- Vidalia Onion: 1 large, thinly sliced for sweetness.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: 2 cans, the base for a rich, creamy sauce.
- Beef Gravy Packet: 1 packet, to enhance the meaty goodness.
- Onion Soup Mix: 1 packet, adding a burst of savory complexity.
- Beef Broth: 1 can (use an empty soup can for measurement), for extra depth and moisture.
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- Yellow Potatoes: 6 medium, peeled and cut into chunks.
- Garlic Powder: 1 tsp, to infuse the potatoes with a subtle kick.
- Sour Cream: 1/2 cup, for creaminess and tang.
For the Green Beans:
- Steam-in-Bag Green Beans: 1 package, for a quick and nutritious side.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Season the cubed steaks generously with onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper on both sides.
- Place the seasoned steaks at the bottom of your slow cooker in a single layer.
- Layer with Onions:
- Thinly slice the Vidalia onion and arrange the slices evenly over the steaks. This will infuse the meat with a sweet, aromatic flavor as it cooks.
- Mix the Sauce:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef gravy packet, onion soup mix, and beef broth. Stir until well combined.
- Pour this mixture over the steaks and onions, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Slow Cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat.
- Cook for 7 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the steaks to become fork-tender.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- About 30 minutes before the steaks are done, place the peeled and chopped yellow potatoes in your Instant Pot.
- Add enough water to cover the potatoes and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
- Once done, drain the water, add garlic powder and sour cream, and mash until smooth and creamy.
- Cook the Green Beans:
- Microwave the steam-in-bag green beans according to the package instructions, usually about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Plate the fork-tender cubed steaks with a generous helping of creamy mashed potatoes and a side of crisp green beans.
- Drizzle some of the rich mushroom gravy from the slow cooker over the steaks and potatoes for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for a Seamless Cooking Experience
- Pre-Slice Onions Ahead of Time: To save time, slice your onions the night before and store them in the fridge.
- Uniform Potato Chunks: Ensure your potato chunks are of similar size to cook evenly.
- Microwave Shortcut: If you’re short on time, microwave the potatoes instead of using the Instant Pot. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of beef broth if the gravy thickens too much.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe? A: Yes, you can substitute cubed steaks with beef round steak or even pork chops. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure tenderness.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and gluten-free gravy and onion soup mix packets. Ensure all other seasonings are also gluten-free.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms are great additions. Add them at the beginning of the cooking process for perfectly tender results.
Q: What can I use instead of sour cream in the mashed potatoes? A: Greek yogurt or cream cheese are excellent substitutes that will still give you that creamy texture.
Q: Can I prepare this meal in advance? A: Yes, you can assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and store it in the fridge. In the morning, just pop the insert into the slow cooker and start cooking.
With this Slow Cooker Cubed Steaks recipe, you’ll enjoy a stress-free cooking experience and a delicious, home-cooked meal that the whole family will love. Happy cooking
