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This Crock Pot Cube Steak with Cream of Celery brings together tender, slow-cooked cube steaks bathed in a luscious and creamy celery sauce. It’s a comforting, no-fuss meal that fits perfectly into busy weeknights, offering hearty satisfaction without demanding too much hands-on time.
I first made this when I wanted a warm and welcoming meal to come home to after a long day. It quickly became a family favorite because it’s both filling and flavorful without complicated steps.
Ingredients You Need
- Cube steaks: choose cuts that are fresh and not too thick for even, tender cooking
- Cream of celery soup: brings creamy texture and a delicate herbal note that sets this dish apart
- Onion: adds sweetness and depth when slow-cooked alongside the meat
- Beef broth: enhances the meaty flavor and keeps everything moist during cooking
- Garlic powder: offers a gentle background spice without overpowering the celery
- Salt and pepper: season the dish perfectly and highlight the natural flavors
Detailed Cooking Directions
- Build The Flavor Base:
- Season the cube steaks generously with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to create a well-rounded flavor foundation that will permeate the meat as it cooks.
- Layer The Ingredients:
- Place the seasoned cube steaks in the crock pot in a single layer for even slow cooking. Add the sliced onions on top to allow their sweetness to infuse the sauce gently.
- Add The Sauce:
- Pour the cream of celery soup evenly over the steaks and onions, then add the beef broth to ensure a creamy yet moist cooking environment.
- Slow Cook Until Tender:
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The long, slow cooking time breaks down the meat fibers for tender cube steaks bathed in a thick, flavorful sauce.
- Serve And Enjoy:
- Scoop out the steaks with plenty of that rich celery sauce and serve with classic mashed potatoes or your favorite rice, letting the creamy juices soak through.
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because the first time I cooked it, I had just gotten a new crock pot and wanted to test its magic. The aroma filled the house all day, and the results lived up to the anticipation. It’s become my go-to comfort meal when I want something soothing and straightforward.
Smart Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the meat and breaking down the sauce texture. For longer storage, the cooked cube steak freezes well. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in a skillet or crock pot on low to refresh the flavors. Keep the mashed potatoes or rice separate when storing to preserve their texture and flavor.
Ingredient Variations
Swap the cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup to change the flavor profile with ease. Add sliced mushrooms or diced carrots at the start to introduce more vegetables and layers of flavor. Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a punchier aroma, sautéing it lightly along with the onions before adding to the crock pot.
Perfect Pairing Ideas
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes make an ideal canvas for soaking up the rich sauce and tender steak juices. Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus add a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy texture of the dish. Serve with a simple mixed greens salad lightly dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness beautifully.
Slow cooking turns a humble cut like cube steak into a tender delight that feels truly indulgent. This recipe is proof that convenience and comfort can live harmoniously on your dinner table, creating moments where every bite feels like a warm hug from the kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of meat is best for this dish?
Cube steaks are ideal here as their tenderized texture becomes especially soft when slow-cooked, soaking up the rich celery sauce beautifully.
- → Can I sear the cube steaks before slow cooking?
Yes, searing the steaks in a hot skillet prior to slow cooking enhances flavor by adding a browned crust and deeper taste.
- → What can be served alongside this creamy steak dish?
Mashed potatoes or rice work well to complement the creamy sauce, along with steamed green beans or a crisp salad for balance.
- → Is it possible to substitute the cream of celery soup?
You can replace cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different flavor profile without losing creaminess.
- → How long should the steaks cook to become tender?
Cooking on low heat for 6 to 8 hours slowly breaks down fibers, ensuring the meat becomes very tender and flavorful.