How to Cook Perfect Cube Steak: A Delicious and Budget-Friendly Recipe
Cube steak is a humble yet delicious cut of meat that’s both affordable and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking to make a quick weeknight dinner or impress guests with a hearty meal, cube steak is an easy choice. In this guide, we’ll show you how to prepare and cook cube steak so it’s tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into the simple steps and make this dish your new go-to!
Ingredients for Cube Steak Recipe
You don’t need much to make cube steak shine. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 4 cube steaks (about 4-6 oz each)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
- 2 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola oil works best)
- Optional: 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard (for added flavor)
For the gravy (optional but highly recommended):
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms for a mushroom gravy twist
How to Prepare Cube Steak
Before you cook your cube steak, it’s a good idea to give it a little prep love.
1. Tenderizing the Meat (if needed)
Some cube steaks come pre-tenderized, but if yours aren’t, use a meat mallet or the back of a heavy pan to gently pound them. The goal is to break down the fibers without making the meat too thin. About 3-4 good whacks should do it. The more tender the steak, the better the result!
2. Seasoning the Cube Steak
Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the cube steak, then add garlic and onion powder for that extra savory flavor. If you like a little more punch, you can brush the steak with a touch of Worcestershire sauce or mustard before seasoning. This helps to build layers of flavor.
How to Cook Cube Steak
Now for the fun part—cooking the steak! Here’s the tried-and-true pan-frying method.
1. Dredge the Steak
Place the flour on a shallow plate or dish. Lightly dredge each cube steak in the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated but not overloaded. Shake off any excess flour. This will give your steak a crispy, golden crust when it’s cooked.
2. Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. Once the pan is hot, it’s time to cook.
3. Cooking the Steak
Carefully add the cube steaks to the pan. Cook each side for about 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown and crispy. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan—if you have more steaks, cook them in batches. If your pan starts to get dry, add a little more oil as needed.
4. Check for Doneness
Cube steak doesn’t take long to cook. You want a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F. For medium, go for 140°F.
Gravy for Cube Steak (Optional, But Worth It)
Cube steak is great on its own, but when you add a rich, savory gravy, it takes things to the next level. Here’s how to make a simple, flavorful gravy:
1. Make a Roux
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, sprinkle in the flour. Stir constantly for about 1 minute, until the mixture turns a light golden color.
2. Add Broth
Slowly whisk in the beef broth. Keep stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens. If you like mushrooms, you can add sliced mushrooms in with the broth to make a delicious mushroom gravy.
3. Season the Gravy
Taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper to your liking. You can also add a little Worcestershire sauce or a dash of soy sauce to deepen the flavor.
4. Pour Over Steak
Once the gravy is ready, pour it over your cooked cube steaks. Trust us, this makes a huge difference.
Serving Suggestions
Cube steak is great on its own, but pairing it with sides elevates the meal. Here are a few classic options:
- Mashed potatoes (the creamy kind to soak up that gravy)
- Rice (perfect for drizzling with the gravy)
- Roasted or sautéed vegetables (like green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts)
- Dinner rolls (for mopping up the sauce)
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Cube Steak
To make sure your cube steak turns out perfectly every time, here are a few tips:
- Don’t overcook it – Cube steak cooks quickly. Overcooking will make it tough. Stick to the 3-4 minute per side rule.
- Don’t skip the tenderizing step – Even if your cube steaks come pre-tenderized, a quick pound with the meat mallet can help ensure they cook evenly.
- Season generously – Cube steak benefits from a good dose of seasoning. Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper!
- Use the right pan – A heavy skillet (like cast iron) will give you the best results. It holds heat well and gives the steak that beautiful sear.
Final Thoughts
Cube steak is a perfect choice for a tasty, filling meal without breaking the bank. It’s quick to cook, easy to prepare, and full of flavor, especially when paired with a homemade gravy. With this recipe, you can make a delicious dinner in no time—whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday meal.
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! And remember, there’s always room to get creative with seasonings, sides, and gravy variations. Happy cooking!
Got a favorite cube steak recipe or cooking tip? Share it in the comments below!
