Cube Steak and Gravy

Cube Steak and Gravy is a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any family meal. This quick and easy recipe showcases tender, flavorful steaks enveloped in a savory mushroom onion gravy. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish will impress your loved ones with its rich taste and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, mushrooms, and onions creates a deliciously hearty gravy that enhances the cube steaks.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a satisfying meal that suits any palate.
• Budget-Friendly: Using cube steaks keeps the cost low while still providing a filling and nutritious dinner option.
• Family Favorite: With its comforting flavors, this dish is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Cube Steak and Gravy, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Cast-iron skillet
• Medium bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Cast-iron skillet: Ideal for achieving a perfect sear on the cube steaks while being durable for high-heat cooking.
• Medium bowl: Useful for mixing the gravy ingredients evenly without spills.
• Whisk: Helps combine liquids smoothly, ensuring no lumps in your gravy.

Ingredients

This fuss-free weeknight dinner features budget-friendly, tender meaty steaks bathed in a tasty beefy mushroom onion gravy. It takes very little time yet delivers an outstanding meal. Your family will absolutely love this!

For the Steaks

• 1-1½ pound cube steaks (about 4 steaks)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Gravy

• 1-2 tablespoons flour
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ cup water
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil
• 1-1½ cup mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 large onion (thinly sliced, about 1½ cups)
• 1 teaspoon thyme (minced)
• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• ½ tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning

How to Make Cube Steak and Gravy

Step 1: Season the Steaks

Season the cube steaks with salt and pepper. Lightly sprinkle flour over them and shake off any excess flour.

Step 2: Sear the Steaks

Heat a cast-iron skillet on medium-high heat. Cook the cube steaks on each side for 4-5 minutes until they are brown. Remove them from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Gravy Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, beef broth, and water until smooth. Set this mixture aside for later use.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

In your skillet over medium-high heat, add about 2 tablespoons of butter or oil. Then add mushrooms, onions, thyme, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Creole seasoning. Sauté these ingredients for about 6 minutes or until they are tender.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Pour the prepared gravy mixture into the skillet with sautéed vegetables. Bring it to a boil before returning the steaks along with their drippings to the skillet. Add more salt and pepper if desired.

Step 6: Simmer

Cover the skillet, reduce heat to low, and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes. Adjust with additional stock or water to achieve your desired gravy thickness.

Enjoy this delightful Cube Steak and Gravy as part of your next family dinner!

How to Serve Cube Steak and Gravy

Serving cube steak and gravy can elevate this simple dish into a delightful meal. It pairs well with various side dishes, making it a versatile option for any weeknight dinner.

Pair with Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the savory gravy.

Serve Over Rice

• Fluffy white or brown rice is a great base for the flavorful cube steak and gravy.

Add Steamed Vegetables

• Brightly colored steamed vegetables like green beans or carrots add freshness and nutrition to your plate.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of chopped parsley or thyme adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s aroma.

Use Crusty Bread

• Serve with crusty bread on the side to mop up any remaining gravy, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.

Create a Sandwich

• Pile the cube steak and gravy onto a toasted bun for a hearty sandwich option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.

How to Perfect Cube Steak and Gravy

To achieve the best results with your cube steak and gravy, follow these helpful tips for a tender and flavorful dish.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select fresh cube steaks from your butcher or grocery store for optimal tenderness.
• Season Generously: Don’t skip seasoning the meat before cooking; it enhances flavor significantly.
• Control Heat: Use medium-high heat when browning the steaks; too hot can lead to burnt outsides while leaving insides undercooked.
• Simmer Gently: Allowing the dish to simmer at low heat helps meld flavors together and keeps the meat tender.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer longer uncovered or whisk in more flour as needed.
• Add Personal Touches: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Cube Steak and Gravy

Cube steak and gravy pairs beautifully with an array of side dishes that enhance its rich flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up gravy, garlic bread adds an aromatic touch.
2. Coleslaw – The crunchiness of coleslaw balances out the rich flavors of the steak.
3. Roasted Potatoes – Crispy roasted potatoes provide a delightful contrast in texture.
4. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the savory taste of the dish while adding brightness.
5. Baked Beans – A classic pairing that brings a sweet and smoky flavor to your meal.
6. Creamed Spinach – This creamy side adds richness and pairs well with beefy dishes.
7. Cauliflower Rice – A lighter alternative that absorbs flavors without adding too many carbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cube Steak and Gravy, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delicious result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not seasoning enough: Failing to season the cube steaks can lead to bland flavors. Always season generously with salt and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the steaks: Cooking the steaks for too long will make them tough. Aim for a nice brown crust while keeping them tender inside.
• Skipping the flour step: Not lightly dusting the steaks with flour can prevent proper browning and create a less flavorful gravy. Dust them lightly to enhance flavor and texture.
• Using low-quality broth: Low-quality beef broth can diminish the gravy’s taste. Opt for a rich, high-quality broth for the best results.
• Neglecting to sauté vegetables properly: If mushrooms and onions are not sautéed until tender, their flavors won’t fully develop. Take time to cook them until soft for maximum flavor.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cube Steak and Gravy

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cube Steak and Gravy

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cube Steak and Gravy?

Cube Steak and Gravy is a simple yet satisfying dish featuring tender cube steaks cooked in a savory mushroom and onion gravy.

How do I make Cube Steak more tender?

To enhance tenderness, consider marinating the cube steak briefly before cooking or use a meat mallet to pound it slightly.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes! Chicken can be used in place of cube steak while maintaining similar cooking methods, resulting in a lighter dish.

How do I customize my Cube Steak and Gravy?

Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Cube Steak and Gravy is an appealing dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for family gatherings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or spices; this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate your personal touch.

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