Savory Smothered Cube Steak
Embrace the comforting flavors of this easy-to-make Smothered Cube Steak recipe. Perfect for those cozy nights in, this dish delivers tender, flavorful meat coated in a rich, savory gravy. Pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles, and you’ll have a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This recipe is especially convenient for busy women looking for a hearty dinner with minimal prep work.
Ingredients Overview
Main Ingredients
- Cube Steaks: Four tenderized cube steaks, perfect for soaking up all the delicious flavors.
- Seasonings: McCormick Montreal Steak and McCormick Smash Burger seasonings to add a robust, savory kick.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Provides a creamy base for the gravy.
- French Onion Soup: Adds depth and a touch of sweetness.
- Au Jus Gravy Mix: Enhances the savory notes with a rich, beefy flavor.
- Water: Helps to thin the soups slightly, creating a perfect gravy consistency.
- Fresh Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add earthiness and texture.
- Onion: Half an onion, sliced, to infuse the dish with a sweet, aromatic flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Season the Steaks
Season the Cube Steaks: Generously season the cube steaks with McCormick Montreal Steak and McCormick Smash Burger seasonings. Place them at the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravy
Combine the Soups and Gravy Mix: In a medium bowl, mix together the can of cream of mushroom soup, can of French onion soup, packet of Au Jus gravy mix, and about half a can of water. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker
Pour the Gravy Over the Steaks: Pour the soup mixture over the seasoned cube steaks in the slow cooker.
Add Vegetables: Top with sliced fresh mushrooms and onion, spreading them evenly over the steaks.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the steaks are tender and the flavors are well melded.
Step 5: Serve
Serve with Side Dishes: Serve the smothered cube steaks hot, with your choice of rice, mashed potatoes, or noodles. Don’t forget to add a salad or your favorite vegetable to complete the meal.
Valuable Tips for Seamless Cooking
Helpful Tip: Layering is Key
Place the cube steaks at the bottom of the slow cooker to ensure they absorb all the flavors from the soups and seasonings.
Helpful Tip: Pre-Mix the Gravy
Mix the soups and gravy packet well before adding to the slow cooker to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Helpful Tip: Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh mushrooms and onions enhances the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Slow Cooker: Reheat in the slow cooker on low until warmed through, to maintain moisture and tenderness.
- Microwave: Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave, covered, on medium power.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cube steaks?
- Answer: Cube steaks are cuts of beef, usually top round or top sirloin, that have been tenderized by pounding or using a mechanical tenderizer, creating a “cubed” texture.
Can I use other types of steak?
- Answer: Yes, you can substitute with other tender cuts like round steak or sirloin, but cube steak is recommended for its tenderness and texture.
Do I need to brown the steaks before slow cooking?
- Answer: It’s not necessary, but browning the steaks first can add extra depth of flavor.
Can I add other vegetables?
- Answer: Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or peas would make great additions.
Can I use low-sodium soups?
- Answer: Yes, using low-sodium soups can help control the overall saltiness of the dish.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
- Answer: Ensure that the soups and gravy mix you use are gluten-free, and you’ll have a gluten-free meal.
How can I make the gravy thicker?
- Answer: If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water towards the end of the cooking time.
Can I use a different gravy mix?
- Answer: Yes, you can experiment with other gravy mixes if you prefer a different flavor profile.
What’s the best way to slice the onions?
- Answer: Slice the onions thinly for even cooking and better texture integration into the gravy.
Can I double the recipe?
- Answer: Yes, just ensure your slow cooker is large enough to handle the increased volume.
Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
- Answer: Substitute the cube steaks with thick slices of portobello mushrooms or a meat substitute like seitan.
How can I add a smoky flavor?
- Answer: Adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the gravy mixture can give a subtle smoky flavor.
What’s the best type of rice to serve with this dish?
- Answer: Jasmine or basmati rice pairs well due to their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture.
Can I freeze leftovers?
- Answer: Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I cook this on high for a shorter time?
- Answer: Yes, cooking on high for 3-4 hours can achieve similar results, though low and slow is preferred for tenderness.
How do I prevent the steak from drying out?
- Answer: Ensure the steaks are fully submerged in the gravy during cooking and keep the slow cooker covered.
Can I add a spicy kick?
- Answer: Adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper can introduce a spicy element.
What other seasonings can I use?
- Answer: Paprika, thyme, or rosemary can add additional layers of flavor.
What’s the ideal side vegetable?
- Answer: Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple mixed green salad complement this dish well.
Can I use fresh herbs?
- Answer: Fresh parsley or thyme can be added at the end of cooking for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Top 10 Secrets for Culinary Perfection
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s key to flavorful meat.
- Pre-Mix Sauces: Ensure even flavor distribution by pre-mixing sauces and gravies.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and onions elevate the dish.
- Low and Slow: Slow cooking on low yields the most tender results.
- Even Layering: Layer ingredients properly to ensure even cooking.
- Thicken Gravy: Use a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker gravy.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices and herbs.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure meat is fork-tender before serving.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Garnish for Freshness: Add fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for a final touch of freshness.
