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Cube Steak

Cube Steak

This cube steak recipe delivers a tender, juicy, and flavorful meal that is both comforting and quick to prepare. Perfectly seared and simmered in a rich broth or gravy, it offers a melt-in-your-mouth texture ideal for busy weeknights or family dinners. Versatile and budget-friendly, this classic dish can be customized with herbs, spices, and gluten-free flour options to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Thin cube steak cuts, well-tenderized – quantity based on servings
  • All-purpose flour (or almond/rice flour for gluten-free) – enough to coat the steak
  • Salt – to taste
  • Black pepper – to taste
  • Garlic powder – to taste
  • Butter or oil – 2 to 3 tablespoons for searing
  • Beef broth or gravy – approximately 1 to 1.5 cups for simmering

Optional Ingredients

  • Onions, sliced – 1 medium (optional for caramelizing)
  • Fresh rosemary or thyme – 1 to 2 teaspoons for herb infusion
  • Cayenne pepper or chili flakes – small pinch for spicy variation
  • Buttermilk – 1/2 cup (for Southern style flour mixture)
  • Sautéed mushrooms – 1/2 cup, for mushroom gravy upgrade

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cube Steak: Pat the cube steak dry with paper towels to remove moisture, which helps the flour and seasonings adhere better and promotes a good sear. Lightly season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to build the flavor foundation.
  2. Coat with Flour: Pour flour into a shallow dish. Dredge each piece of steak evenly in the flour, shaking off any excess to prevent clumping or sogginess during cooking.
  3. Heat the Pan: Warm a generous amount of butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Heat until the fat shimmers but does not smoke, ensuring the pan is hot enough to sear the steak properly.
  4. Cook the Steak: Add the coated cube steaks to the skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side until a golden brown crust forms. If using onions, you can caramelize them alongside the steak or separately.
  5. Add Broth for Moisture: Reduce the heat to low and pour in the beef broth or gravy. Cover the skillet and let the steaks simmer gently for about 10 minutes to tenderize the meat and infuse savory flavor.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove the lid, allow the sauce to thicken slightly, then transfer the cube steak to serving plates. Spoon the rich sauce over the top and serve immediately to enjoy maximum juiciness.

Notes

  • Use thin cube steak cuts to ensure quick cooking and tenderness.
  • Patting the steak dry before flouring is key to achieving a crispy crust.
  • Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan and ensure even browning.
  • Allow the meat to rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
  • Choose a high-quality beef broth for a more flavorful sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: cube steak, tender steak, quick dinner, easy beef recipe, gluten-free steak, comfort food