Who doesn’t love a good, hearty meal that can be whipped up in no time? For many of us, quick and easy recipes are a lifesaver, especially on busy weeknights. Today, we’re diving into a Quick Cube Steak Recipe that’s perfect for those rushed evenings. Not only is it simple to make, but it's also incredibly delicious, providing comfort and satisfaction with minimal effort. Let's explore this delightful dish that's bound to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here's what you'll need for this savory cube steak:
- 4 cube steaks, each about 1/2 inch thick
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or shortening
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup brown gravy mix (optional for a richer gravy)
Preparation Steps
Let's walk through the steps to prepare your cube steak:
- Season the Flour: In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture will give your steaks a flavorful crust when cooked.
- Coat the Steaks: Dredge each cube steak in the seasoned flour, ensuring both sides are well coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet, heat the oil or shortening over medium-high heat until it's hot but not smoking.
- Cook the Steaks: Add the steaks to the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. If the skillet seems too dry, add a little more oil to prevent sticking.
- Make the Gravy: Remove the steaks to a plate, and in the same skillet, whisk in the beef broth or water, milk, and if you're using it, the brown gravy mix. Bring to a boil while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Simmer: Return the steaks to the pan, lower the heat to a simmer, and cook for another 5-10 minutes or until the steaks are tender and the gravy thickens. Ensure the gravy doesn't burn by stirring occasionally.
🌟 Note: Cube steak is known for being tenderized, but if you feel your steaks need more tenderness, you can cover the skillet during the simmering phase to help lock in moisture and soften the meat further.
Serving Suggestions
To round out your meal, consider these pairing options:
- Mashed Potatoes: A classic pairing, offering a creamy contrast to the savory steak.
- Green Beans: Sautéed or steamed, they provide a fresh, crisp side that balances the richness of the dish.
- Salad: A simple garden salad or a coleslaw can add a refreshing crunch.
Variations and Tips
- Add Herbs: For a flavor twist, add fresh or dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the gravy for an aromatic touch.
- Spice it Up: Introduce spices like paprika or cayenne pepper to the flour mix for those who love a bit of heat.
- Use Different Liquids: Instead of beef broth, try chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter sauce.
- Reduce Cooking Time: For quicker results, you might opt for thin-cut cube steaks or tenderize them further before cooking.
📝 Note: Always let the steaks rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent.
There you have it—a straightforward, delicious, and comforting meal that can be made in less than 30 minutes. This Quick Cube Steak Recipe is not only a time-saver but also a way to bring the family around the table for a wholesome, home-cooked meal, even on the busiest of days. By employing techniques like browning the meat and making a quick pan gravy, you can elevate your cooking game without adding hours in the kitchen.
Can I use chicken instead of beef for this recipe?
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Yes, you can substitute chicken cutlets or chicken breast tenders for cube steak. Adjust the cooking time accordingly since chicken cooks faster than beef.
What can I do if the gravy is too thin?
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If your gravy isn’t thickening to your liking, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water or milk and stir it into the simmering gravy. This will help thicken it quickly.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
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Absolutely. Use gluten-free all-purpose flour instead of regular flour, and ensure your broth or gravy mix is also gluten-free. Most brands offer gluten-free options nowadays.
