Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy — Tender and Rich

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy

---

Ingredients:

• 1.5–2 lbs cubed steak (beef round or sirloin tip)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2–3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2–3 stalks celery, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1–2 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening gravy)
• Optional: Mushrooms, potatoes, peas (additional vegetables)

---

Equipment Needed:

• Slow cooker (4–6 qt capacity)
• Bowl for dusting meat
• Fork or tongs for turning meat
• Plate or cutting board for resting meat
• Whisk or spoon for stirring gravy

---

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

1. Trim any visible fat or silver skin from the steak.
2. Cut the steak into bite-size cubes (about 1-inch squares).
3. In a bowl, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
4. Dredge the meat cubes in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.

---

Step 2: Sear the Meat

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Working in batches, sear the meat cubes until golden brown on all sides (about 3–4 minutes per batch).
3. Transfer the seared meat to the slow cooker.

---

Step 3: Build Flavors

1. Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery to the same skillet.
2. Sauté the vegetables until slightly softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits.
4. Pour the deglazing liquid and vegetables into the slow cooker.

---

Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings

1. Pour the remaining beef broth into the slow cooker.
2. Add bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme.
3. Stir gently to combine everything.

---

Step 5: Cooking Time

1. Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
2. Halfway through cooking, give the contents a gentle stir to ensure even cooking.

---

Step 6: Thicken the Gravy

1. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry.
2. Remove the slow cooker lid and stir in the slurry.
3. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10–15 minutes until the gravy thickens.

---

Step 7: Final Touches

1. Skim off any excess fat floating on top of the gravy.
2. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

---

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve over mashed potatoes or egg noodles.
• Accompany with steamed vegetables or a simple salad.
• Top with fresh bread or crackers for dipping.

---

Enjoy your slow-cooked cubed steak with gravy, a hearty and comforting meal fit for any occasion!

Choosing the Right Meat for Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy

Selecting the right cut of meat is essential for achieving tender, flavorful results in your slow cooker recipe. Here are the criteria to follow:

---

Recommended Cuts:

• Round Steak: Economical and flavorful, ideal for slow cooking.
• Sirloin Tip: More expensive but equally tender when cooked low and slow.
• Flank Steak: Less tender but marbled with fat, making it juicy after slow cooking.
• Chuck Steak: Full of collagen, breaking down into richness during long cooking periods.

---

What to Look For:

1. Color: Choose cuts with a deep red hue, avoiding gray or brown patches.
2. Fat Distribution: Evenly distributed fat adds moisture and flavor.
3. Texture: Firm and springy to the touch indicates freshness.
4. Size: Cube the steak into bite-size pieces (about 1 inch square) for even cooking.

---

Preparation Tips:

• Trim excess fat and silverskin before slicing.
• Dredge in flour for improved browning and gravy thickening.
• Sear the meat cubes briefly to seal in juices and promote caramelization.

---

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure that your Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy achieves peak tenderness and richness. 

How to Properly Cut Meat for Cubed Steak with Gravy Recipes

Cutting the meat correctly ensures even cooking and maximizes tenderness. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting it right:

---

Choosing the Right Cut

Opt for cheaper, tougher cuts like:

• Round steak
• Sirloin tip
• Chuck steak

These cuts benefit from slow cooking, becoming tender and flavorful.

---

Preparation Steps

1. Trimming: Remove excess fat and silverskin from the surface.
2. Cutting Direction: Slice against the grain (perpendicular to muscle fibers) for tenderness.
3. Thickness: Aim for 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and flavor penetration.
4. Consistency: Strive for uniform size to avoid overcooking smaller pieces.

---

Techniques for Success

• Sharp Knife: Use a sharp chef’s knife or cleaver for clean, precise cuts.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Get comfortable with the motion of slicing against the grain.
• Test Texture: Sample a small piece to assess tenderness and adjust cooking time accordingly.

---

Pro tip: If the meat is too tough, consider tenderizing it with a mallet or scoring tool before cutting.

By following these guidelines, you’ll achieve perfectly sized, tender cubes for your Cubed Steak with Gravy recipes!

Cooking Time for Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy

Crafting the perfect Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy requires patience and attention to detail. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking timelines to help you navigate this hearty dish:

---

Overview of Timing

• Preparation Time: 20–30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6–8 hours on LOW, or 3–4 hours on HIGH
• Total Time: 6–9 hours

---

Detailed Timeline

Preparation Phase (20–30 minutes):

1. Trimming and Cutting: Trim excess fat from the steak and cut into bite-size cubes.
2. Dredging: Coat the meat cubes in a mixture of flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Searing: Briefly sear the meat in a skillet to lock in juices and add flavor.
4. Building Flavor: Sauté onions, carrots, and celery, then deglaze the pan with broth.

Cooking Phase (6–8 hours on LOW, 3–4 hours on HIGH):

1. Setting Up: Place the seared meat and sautéed vegetables in the slow cooker.
2. Adding Broth: Pour in beef broth and seasonings like Worcestershire sauce and thyme.
3. Cooking: Cover and let the slow cooker work its magic, allowing the meat to become fall-apart tender.

Finishing Touches (10–15 minutes):

1. Thickening: Stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy.
2. Seasoning Adjustment: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
3. Presentation: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

---

By following this timeline, you’ll create a mouthwatering Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates!

Temperature Management for Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy

Mastering temperature control is crucial for achieving tender, succulent results in your slow cooker recipe. Here’s how to handle the temperature for Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy:

---

General Principles

The secret to slow cooking lies in maintaining a consistent, low temperature that breaks down connective tissues and renders fat, ensuring tender, flavorful meat. Here are the key temperature considerations:

---

Initial Browning (Optional)

• Objective: Develop flavor and seal in juices.
• Temperature: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat (approximately 350–400°F / 175–200°C).
• Process: Briefly sear the meat cubes until golden brown on all sides.

---

Main Cooking Phases

• LOW Setting: Recommended for 6–8 hours. The internal temperature stays around 180–200°F (82–93°C).
• HIGH Setting: Shortens cooking time to 3–4 hours, reaching 200–210°F (93–99°C).

Note: Use the LOW setting for optimal tenderness and flavor extraction.

---

Monitoring Progress

Although slow cookers regulate themselves, it’s helpful to occasionally check the internal temperature of the meat using a meat thermometer. Target an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety and tenderness.

---

Gravy Consistency

Towards the end of cooking, you may notice the gravy becomes too thin. Here’s how to thicken it:

• Slurry Method: Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into the slow cooker. Allow it to simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.

---

By understanding and controlling these temperature aspects, you’ll consistently achieve restaurant-quality results with your Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy!

Calorie Content of Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy

As a professional chef, I’m committed to transparency regarding the nutritional values of the dishes I recommend. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the calorie content for Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy:

---

Key Components and Their Calories

1. Cubed Steak: Approximately 110–150 calories per 100 grams, depending on the cut and fat content.
2. All-Purpose Flour (for dredging): About 364 calories per 100 grams.
3. Beef Broth: Only 5–10 calories per 100 milliliters.
4. Onions, Carrots, Celery: Around 30–40 calories per 100 grams collectively.
5. Gravy Thickener (Cornstarch): About 370 calories per 100 grams.
6. Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder): Negligible calories.

---

Approximate Calorie Count

Assuming a serving size of about 300 grams (meat, vegetables, and gravy), the total calorie count comes to approximately 350–450 calories per serving, depending on the quantity of gravy and the type of steak used.

---

Considerations for Health Conscious Diners

• Lower-Fat Options: Use leaner cuts of beef, reduce the amount of gravy, or opt for nonfat dairy products.
• Portion Control: Limit your serving size to avoid overindulgence.
• Vegetarian Alternatives: Swap the beef for seitan or tempeh for a plant-based version.

---

Balancing flavor and nutrition is essential for any successful dish. Enjoy your Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy responsibly!

Spices for Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy

Enhancing the flavor of your Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy requires a thoughtful blend of spices. Here are some essential seasonings to consider:

---

Core Seasonings:

1. Salt and Pepper: Foundational seasonings that highlight the natural flavors of the meat.
2. Garlic Powder: Adds depth and savory notes.
3. Onion Powder: Complements the garlic, rounding out the umami flavors.
4. Paprika: Provides a mild smoky and slightly sweet element.
5. Dried Thyme: Offers a subtle herby accent.
6. Bay Leaves: Releases a faint, woodsy aroma during cooking.

---

Optional Flavor Boosters:

1. Worcestershire Sauce: Brings umami and tanginess to the gravy.
2. Liquid Smoke: Adds a subtle smoky flavor reminiscent of outdoor grilling.
3. Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those seeking a spicy kick.
4. Celery Seed: Adds a bitter edge that balances the richness.
5. Dry Mustard: Provides a hint of sharpness and complexity.

---

Special Occasion Variations:

• Holiday Edition: Add fresh rosemary sprigs or bay leaves tied in a bundle.
• Fiesta Flair: Incorporate chipotle powder or adobo seasoning for a Latin twist.
• Game Day Special: Sprinkle with Montreal steak seasoning for bold flavors.

---

Play with these spices to customize the dish according to your preferences. Enjoy the transformation of simple ingredients into a hearty, soul-soothing meal!

What to Serve with Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy

Completing the Slow Cooker Cubed Steak with Gravy with the right side dishes transforms it into a wholesome and satisfying meal. Here are some classic and inventive options:

---

Classic Pairings:

1. Mashed Potatoes: Soft, creamy, and a perfect canvas for gravy.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts roasted to perfection.
3. Buttered Egg Noodles: Simple yet luxurious, with a hint of butter and salt.
4. Biscuits or Rolls: Freshly baked, split open, and doused in gravy.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Light and fresh, providing a textural contrast.

---

Creative Ideas:

1. Cheese Grits: Creamy polenta with sharp cheddar, adding decadence.
2. Green Bean Casserole: Creamy, crunchy, and nostalgic.
3. Sweet Potato Fries: Golden and crispy, an unexpected delight.
4. Creamed Spinach: Velvety spinach with a dollop of ricotta or goat cheese.
5. BBQ Corn on the Cob: Smoky and sweet, with a tangy BBQ glaze.

---

Beverages:

• Wine: Bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec.
• Beer: Amber ale or porter.
• Non-Alcoholic: Sweet tea or sparkling lemonade.

---

Tailoring your meal with these selections ensures a balanced, flavorful, and memorable dining experience!

Alternative Methods for Preparing Cubed Steak with Gravy

While the slow cooker is undoubtedly the easiest and most convenient approach, there are other ways to prepare a tender and flavorful Cubed Steak with Gravy. Here are some alternative methods:

---

Stovetop Version

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs cubed steak
• All-purpose flour for dredging
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2–3 carrots, sliced
• 2–3 stalks celery, sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water)

Steps:

1. Sear the Meat: Dredge the steak in seasoned flour. Heat oil in a large skillet and sear the meat until golden brown.
2. Build Flavor: Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened.
3. Deglaze: Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer: Cover and cook over low-medium heat for 1–1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
5. Finish: Thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry. Adjust seasoning and serve.

---

Instant Pot Version

Ingredients: Same as above.

Steps:

1. Brown the Meat: Use the Instant Pot’s sauté function to sear the dredged steak.
2. Add Ingredients: Add onions, carrots, celery, and seasonings.
3. Pressure Cook: Lock the lid and cook on Manual High Pressure for 30–40 minutes.
4. Release Pressure: Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release.
5. Thicken: Stir in a cornstarch slurry and adjust seasoning.

---

Braising in the Oven

Ingredients: Same as above.

Steps:

1. Searing: Brown the steak in a Dutch oven or cast iron skillet.
2. Create Bouillon: Add vegetables and broth.
3. Oven Braise: Cover and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2–3 hours until tender.
4. Finish: Thicken the gravy with a slurry and adjust seasoning.

---

Regardless of the method, focus on developing rich flavors through proper seasoning and slow cooking. Each technique yields tender, succulent results worth celebrating!

Variations of Cubed Steak with Gravy Recipes

Cubed steak with gravy is a versatile dish that adapts well to regional influences and personal preferences. Here are four notable variations to expand your culinary repertoire:

---

1. Classic Southern Style

• Description: The quintessential version, relying on simple ingredients like flour, butter, onions, and beef broth.
• Unique Feature: Hearty, straightforward, and evoking nostalgia.

---

2. Midwestern “Country” Style

• Description: Features thick, rustic gravy with cream or milk added for richness.
• Unique Feature: Smooth, creamy texture and often paired with mashed potatoes.

---

3. Tex-Mex Fusion

• Description: Embellishes the classic formula with cumin, chili powder, and jalapeños.
• Unique Feature: Spicy, smoky, and vibrant, appealing to lovers of southwestern flavors.

---

4. New England Yankee Style

• Description: Emphasizes fresh herbs like thyme and parsley, often served with creamed spinach or scalloped potatoes.
• Unique Feature: Lighter, brighter, and refined, showcasing New England’s culinary heritage.

---

Experimenting with these styles broadens your horizons, enabling you to tailor the dish to suit various palates and occasions.