Cube steak is an affordable, tenderized cut of beef that can make a hearty and satisfying meal. Cooking it in the oven is a convenient way to get juicy, flavorful results without much fuss. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned cook, baking cube steak is easy and yields great taste every time. Let’s explore how to cook cube steak in the oven step-by-step, with tips to make it perfect.
What Is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is usually cut from the top or bottom round and then tenderized with a meat mallet or machine, which gives it a distinctive cube-shaped pattern on the surface. This tenderizing process breaks down tough muscle fibers, making the steak softer and easier to cook quickly. Because it’s thin and tenderized, cube steak cooks faster than other cuts, making it ideal for oven baking.
Preparing Your Cube Steak for the Oven
Preparation is key to a delicious oven-baked cube steak. Here’s what you need to do before cooking:
– Choose quality cube steak: Look for steaks that are already tenderized and about 1/2 inch thick.
– Season generously: Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or minced onion to add flavor. A simple rub of these spices works wonders.
– Let it rest: After seasoning, let the steak sit at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes. This helps the meat cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Cube Steak in the Oven
Ingredients
– 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 inch thick)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– 2 tablespoons milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even cooking.
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow dish, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Beat eggs and milk: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- Coat the steaks: Dip each cube steak first into the flour mixture, then the egg wash, and back into the flour. This double coating creates a crispy crust.
- Place in baking dish: Arrange the coated steaks in a greased baking dish in a single layer.
- Drizzle oil: Pour the vegetable or olive oil evenly over the steaks to help them brown.
- Bake: Cook in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the steaks are golden brown and cooked through.
- Rest before serving: Let the steaks rest for a few minutes after baking to retain their juices.
Optional Step: Searing Before Baking
For an extra flavorful crust, you can sear the cube steaks in a hot skillet with a little oil for 1-2 minutes per side before baking. This step locks in juices and adds a beautiful brown color. Then transfer the steaks to the baking dish and finish cooking in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until done.
Serving Suggestions
Cube steak pairs wonderfully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with gravy-beef or mushroom gravy complements the crispy coating and tender meat perfectly. For a comforting meal, place the steak over rice or creamy mashed potatoes and drizzle with your favorite gravy.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Cube Steak
– Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; 145°F (63°C) is ideal for medium-rare.
– Avoid overcrowding the baking dish to ensure even cooking and browning.
– Letting the steak rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making it more tender.
– Experiment with seasoning blends to suit your taste-smoked paprika, cayenne, or Italian herbs can add unique flavors.
Baking cube steak in the oven is a straightforward, no-fuss way to enjoy a tender and tasty steak dinner. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can impress your family with a delicious meal any night of the week.
Give this method a try and enjoy the crispy outside and juicy inside of perfectly cooked cube steak!
Perfectly cooked cube steak is just a few simple steps away-bake it in the oven and enjoy a comforting, flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy.