Transform Tender Cube Steak into Fork-Tender Perfection in the Crock Pot

Cube steak may seem tough, but with the gentle care of the crock pot, it becomes fall-apart tender. By braising the meat low and slow in sauce, cube steaks transform into succulent, spoon-soft shreds. With the help of spice rubs, flavorful sauces, and time, even the most inexpensive cube steak turns into amazing home cooked meals. Let’s explore easy, budget-friendly ways to use the slow cooker to make cube steak amazingly tender.

Choose the Right Cube Steak

Look for thin sliced cube steak or minute steaks, around 1-1 1/2 pounds to serve 3-4 people. Avoid super thick cuts that may not cook through fully.

Uniformly Thin

Cube steak is pounded to an even 1/2 inch thickness. This allows it to braise evenly.

Season the Meat Well

Coat steaks all over generously with spices like garlic, onion, salt, and pepper before browning. Other good options are chili powder, paprika, oregano.

Spice is Nice

Layering on spices and rubs gives otherwise bland cube steak tons of flavor.

Quickly Brown the Steaks

Add a bit of oil to a skillet and cook steaks over high heat for 1-2 minutes per side, just until lightly browned. This caramelizes flavors.

Skip this Step to Save Time

Browning adds flavor but isn't essential. You can go right to the slow cooker.

Slow Cook in Sauce Mixture

Place seared steaks into the crock pot and cover with sauce ingredients like broth, tomatoes, Worcestershire, ketchup, etc. Cook on low 6-8 hours.

Lots of Liquid = Tender Meat

The ample braising liquid helps break down the meat's connective tissue into fork-tender strands.

Shred and Serve

When cooked, use two forks to shred the totally tender cube steaks right in the pot. Mix in soft herbs like parsley if desired. Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles.

Tender Beyond Belief

The low slow cooking makes the meat so tender, it just falls apart. Incredible!

Some Tasty Cube Steak Crock Pot Ideas:

- Swiss Steak with Gravy

- Cube Steak Fajitas

- Hearty Beef Stew

- Shredded Beef Sandwiches

- Italian Beef for French Dip

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I cook cube steak in the crock pot?

Anywhere from 6-10 hours on low until extremely tender when pierced.

What liquids work well for braising cube steak?

Beef broth, tomatoes, wine, Worcestershire sauce, etc. Get creative with the flavor!

Can I prepare the shredded steak ahead of time?

Absolutely! Shred then refrigerate up to 5 days. Reheat in cooking juices.

What sides go well with shredded cube steak?

Rice, potatoes, pasta, roasted veggies, bread for dipping. The options are endless!

Should I thicken the cooking liquid?

You can, or just spoon over mashed potatoes. The starch will absorb and thicken it.

In Summary

With the gentle care of the slow cooker, inexpensive cube steak becomes insanely tender and full of flavor. Braise with spices, sauces and time for delicious shredded beef. It’s an easy, budget-friendly win!