How to Make Baked Cube Steak Perfectly Tender Every Time

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty meal that warms the soul, and my Baked Cube Steak is just that! This dish is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a side of creamy garlic pasta or a refreshing Cucumber Vinegar Salad. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that will surely become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for quick family dinners.
• Rich, flavorful gravy that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
• Perfectly tender cube steaks that melt in your mouth.
• Great for meal prep and leftovers, making it a fantastic option for 30-minute meals.
• Versatile enough to pair with various sides, from mashed potatoes to salads.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Baked Cube Steak, you will need the following ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons cooking oil (divided)
• 1 large yellow onion (sliced)
• 1 1/2 pounds cube steaks (4-6 steaks)
• Salt, to taste
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup flour (for gravy)
• 2 cups low sodium beef broth
• 1 sprig fresh thyme
• Salt to taste

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Baked Cube Steak:

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a small dish, mix together the seasoned flour ingredients: flour, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel, season with salt to taste, and dredge each steak in the flour mixture to fully coat the exterior.
3. In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle one tablespoon of cooking oil and add the sliced onions. Sauté the onions until they are tender and beginning to brown, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Once tender, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the remaining cooking oil to the skillet along with the cube steaks. Increase the heat to medium-high and sear the steaks on both sides until nicely browned. The inside does not need to be cooked through at this time. Remove the cube steaks and set them aside with the sautéed onions.
5. Let the pan cool slightly, then lower the temperature to medium-low. Prepare the gravy by melting the butter in the skillet, then whisk in the flour to form a roux. Cook for two minutes while whisking to prevent scorching.
6. Slowly add the beef broth to the flour mixture in small splashes, whisking to incorporate before adding more liquid. Repeat until all the liquid has been added; the gravy should be very thin at this point.
7. Add the sprig of fresh thyme, along with the sautéed onions and cube steaks, to the gravy. Cover the pan with a lid and place it in the oven for 1 1/2 hours.
8. After 1 1/2 hours, the steaks should be tender, and the gravy will have thickened. Taste the gravy for salt and add more if needed. Remove the thyme sprig and serve!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your Baked Cube Steak turns out perfectly every time:

• For extra flavor, consider marinating the cube steaks in your favorite seasoning blend overnight.
• Don’t rush the searing process; a good sear adds depth to the flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, let it simmer on the stovetop for a few minutes after baking.
• Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms to the gravy for added nutrition and flavor.

How to Serve

This Baked Cube Steak is incredibly versatile! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Serve it over mashed potatoes for a classic comfort meal.
• Pair it with a side of Cucumber Tomato Salad for a refreshing contrast.
• For a heartier option, serve it with rice or noodles.
• Don’t forget to drizzle that rich gravy over everything!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

So there you have it! A delicious, hearty meal that your family will love. Whether you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas or just a comforting dish to enjoy, this Baked Cube Steak is sure to please. Happy cooking!