Cube steak and gravy is a classic comfort food that’s both budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook cube steak and gravy to get that tender, flavorful dish, you’re in the right place! This article will walk you through a simple, foolproof recipe and share tips to make your meal perfect every time.
What Is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a cut of beef, often from the top round or top sirloin, that has been mechanically tenderized. The tenderizing process leaves small cube-shaped indentations on the meat, hence the name. It’s sometimes called “minute steak” because it cooks quickly, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cube Steak:
– 4 cube steaks (about 1 to 1½ pounds)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika for extra flavor
For the Gravy:
– 2 tablespoons butter or oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 to 1½ cups mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)
– 1 teaspoon minced thyme or other herbs
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Creole or Cajun seasoning (optional)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– ½ cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step: How to Cook Cube Steak and Gravy
1. Prepare the Cube Steaks
Start by seasoning your cube steaks with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like such as garlic powder or paprika. Lightly coat each steak with flour and shake off the excess. This helps create a nice crust and thickens the gravy later.
2. Brown the Steaks
Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil or butter. Cook the cube steaks for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust. Remove the steaks from the pan and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the onions, mushrooms, thyme, and garlic until tender and fragrant-about 5-6 minutes. Adding Worcestershire sauce and Creole seasoning here boosts the gravy’s flavor.
4. Make the Gravy
Sprinkle flour over the sautéed veggies and stir well to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the beef broth and water, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it thicken. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the Steaks in Gravy
Return the browned cube steaks and any drippings to the skillet. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and let everything simmer for about 8-10 minutes. This allows the steaks to become tender and soak up the rich gravy flavors. If the gravy is too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Tips for Perfect Cube Steak and Gravy
– Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and a better crust on your steaks.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning steaks to ensure they brown nicely instead of steaming.
– Pound the steaks lightly with a meat tenderizer if they seem thick or tough to speed up cooking and improve tenderness.
– Adjust seasoning as you go, especially in the gravy, to suit your taste.
– Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or buttered noodles to soak up that delicious gravy.
Variations You Can Try
– Mushroom Onion Gravy: Add mushrooms for an earthy depth and a bit of texture.
– Classic Southern Style: Use milk instead of broth for a creamy milk gravy.
– Spicy Kick: Incorporate Creole or Cajun seasoning for a flavorful twist.
– Quick Version: Use a store-bought gravy mix if you’re short on time but still want that comforting taste.
Cube steak and gravy is a simple, hearty meal that comes together quickly and pleases the whole family. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy tender steaks smothered in rich, savory gravy any night of the week.
Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!
Cube steak and gravy is a timeless comfort dish that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and full of flavor. Give this recipe a try and savor every bite!