How to Make Cube Steak (Step by Step)

Cube steak is a tenderized cut of beef that’s perfect for quick and hearty meals. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and easy to cook. Follow this step-by-step guide to make delicious cube steak at home.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

Ingredients:

• Cube Steaks: 4 pieces (about 1 pound total)
• Flour: ½ cup (all-purpose flour for dredging)
• Seasonings:
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Oil or Butter: 2–3 tablespoons for cooking
• Optional Additions:
  • Beef broth or water (for gravy)
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced

Tools:

• Skillet: A large, heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works well).
• Shallow Dish: For dredging the steaks.
• Tongs or Spatula: For flipping.
• Measuring Spoons: For precise seasoning.

Step 2: Prepare the Steaks

1. Pat Dry: Use paper towels to pat the cube steaks dry. This helps the coating stick better.
2. Season: Sprinkle both sides of the steaks with salt, pepper, and other desired seasonings.

Step 3: Prepare the Dredge

1. In a shallow dish, combine:
   • ½ cup flour
   • 1 teaspoon salt
   • ½ teaspoon black pepper
   • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
   • ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
2. Mix thoroughly to combine.

Step 4: Dredge the Steaks

1. Press each cube steak into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
2. Shake off any excess flour to avoid a heavy coating.

Step 5: Heat the Skillet

1. Heat 2–3 tablespoons of oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Ensure the oil is hot before adding the steaks to get a nice sear.

Step 6: Cook the Steaks

1. Place the dredged cube steaks in the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
2. Cook for 3–4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Remove the steaks from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Step 7: Make Gravy (Optional)

1. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same skillet, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook until softened.
2. Deglaze the Pan: Add 1–2 cups of beef broth or water to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
3. Thicken: If desired, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry, then stir it into the broth to thicken the gravy.
4. Simmer: Let the gravy cook for 2–3 minutes until thickened.

Step 8: Serve

1. Return the cube steaks to the skillet, spooning the gravy over the top.
2. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to meld.
3. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Step 9: Pair with Sides

Cube steak pairs well with:

• Mashed potatoes
• Rice
• Steamed vegetables
• Biscuits or cornbread

Optional Variations

1. Smothered Cube Steak: Add mushrooms and a splash of heavy cream to the gravy for a richer dish.
2. Country-Fried Cube Steak: Use buttermilk to coat the steak before dredging in seasoned flour, then fry until crispy.
3. Spicy Cube Steak: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture for a kick.

Tips for Perfect Cube Steak

1. 1. Avoid Overcooking: Cube steak cooks quickly, so watch it closely to prevent it from becoming tough.
2. Rest Before Serving: Let the steaks rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain their juices.
3. Use Low Heat for Gravy: Gradually thicken the gravy on low heat to avoid lumps.

Storing and Reheating

1. Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
2. Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a bit of broth or water to keep it moist.
3. Freeze: Freeze cooked cube steak for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Cube steak is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick, satisfying meal. Whether you serve it plain or with gravy, this step-by-step guide ensures you’ll get tender, delicious results every time. Enjoy!