Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Slow-Cooked Cubed Steak and Potato Casserole?
It is a comforting one-pot dish that combines tender cubed steak with a creamy soup mixture and hearty potatoes, designed to be cooked slowly in a crock pot.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to provide 4 servings.
Can I use minute steaks instead of cubed steaks?
Yes, you can use either 4 cubed steaks or 4 minute steaks for this recipe.
How long should I cook the casserole on the low setting?
On the low setting, the casserole should cook for 8 to 10 hours until the steak is fork-tender.
What is the cooking time on the high setting?
If you are using the high setting, the casserole will be ready in 4 to 5 hours.
Do the potatoes need to be peeled?
No, peeling is optional. You can cook the halved potatoes with or without their skins based on your preference.
How do I prevent the food from sticking to the crock pot?
Begin by spraying the inside of your crock pot with a generous layer of cooking spray before adding any ingredients.
What type of soup is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one 10.5-ounce can of cream of chicken soup.
How much water is needed for the soup mixture?
You will need 3/4 cup of measured water to mix with the soup.
What size onion soup mix is required?
The recipe uses one 1.25-ounce envelope of onion soup mix.
How many potatoes are used in this dish?
The recipe calls for 5 potatoes, which should be halved.
Is it necessary to season the cubed steaks?
Yes, the instructions recommend seasoning the steaks to your personal taste while layering them.
How should I layer the steak and soup?
Start with 1/2 cup of soup on the bottom, then layer 2 steaks, another 1/2 cup of soup, the remaining steaks, and finally the rest of the soup mixture.
Where do the potatoes go in the crock pot?
The halved potatoes should be arranged as the final layer on top of the meat and soup layers.
What side dishes go well with this casserole?
It is recommended to serve this dish with a side of green beans or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I use cream of mushroom soup instead?
While the recipe specifies cream of chicken, cream of mushroom is a common substitution that would complement the steak well.
Do I need to brown the meat before slow cooking?
No, the recipe does not require browning; the steaks are placed directly into the crock pot raw.
How do I know when the dish is finished cooking?
The dish is ready when the steak is fork-tender and the potatoes are fully cooked through.
Is this recipe good for meal prep or busy schedules?
Yes, it is ideal for busy weekdays because you can set it in the morning and return home to a finished dinner.
Should the soup and water be mixed together before adding them to the pot?
Yes, you should stir the cream of chicken soup and water in a medium bowl until smooth before layering.
What should I do with excess fat on the steak?
The ingredients list suggests trimming the steaks of excess fat if needed before starting the recipe.
Is this a one-pot meal?
Yes, the entire dish is prepared and cooked in a single slow cooker, making cleanup easy.
How much onion soup mix is added to the meat?
The recipe calls for one full 1.25-ounce envelope of onion soup mix to be used for flavor.
Can I use beef broth instead of water?
Substituting beef broth for water would likely enhance the savory flavor of the gravy.
How many steaks in total are needed?
You will need a total of 4 cubed or minute steaks.
Is the onion soup mix mixed into the soup or sprinkled on?
The onion soup mix is part of the ingredient list and typically provides the primary seasoning for the soup mixture and meat.
What type of potatoes are best?
Any standard baking or boiling potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds will work well in this casserole.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
How do I reheat this dish?
You can reheat individual servings in the microwave or place the casserole back in a pot on the stove until warmed through.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild and savory flavors of steak, creamy soup, and potatoes are generally very popular with children.