Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like the comfort of a plate of smothered cubed steak! This dish is a warm hug for your taste buds, with tender pieces of steak swimming in a rich, savory gravy that just begs to be spooned over a heap of mashed potatoes. It’s a family favorite in my home, and I can still hear my mom’s voice saying, “This is what love tastes like!” I remember the smell wafting through the kitchen, making the whole house feel cozy and inviting. Every bite is packed with flavor, and it’s such an easy meal to whip up. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, smothered cubed steak never fails to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a recipe I keep coming back to!
Ingredients for Smothered Cubed Steak
- 2 lbs cubed steak: Look for tender cuts that will soak up all that delicious gravy.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour: This will help create a lovely crust on the steak and thicken the gravy.
- 2 cups beef broth: Use low-sodium if you prefer, as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish.
- 1 onion, sliced: Sweet onions work beautifully, adding depth to the flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic kick!
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Don’t be shy—seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors!
- 2 tbsp olive oil: This will give the steak that perfect golden-brown color.
How to Prepare Smothered Cubed Steak
Now, let’s dive into making this delicious dish! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and the end result is just divine. Here’s how to whip up your smothered cubed steak step by step.
Seasoning and Coating the Steak
First things first, grab your cubed steak and sprinkle it generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s what really brings out the flavor! Then, take that seasoned steak and coat it in flour. I like to use a large zip-top bag for this—just toss the steak in, seal it up, and shake until it’s evenly coated. This not only makes it less messy but also ensures a nice, even layer of flour that will help create a beautiful crust when we cook it.
Cooking the Steak
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it hot enough to get that sizzle going but not so hot that the oil smokes. Once your oil is shimmering, carefully add the cubed steak to the skillet. Brown the steak on both sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes each side. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; if you have a lot of steak, do this in batches. Once browned, remove the steak and set it aside on a plate. This step is crucial because it locks in those juices and gives the meat a great flavor!
Creating the Gravy
Now for my favorite part—creating that rich gravy! In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. The aroma will be heavenly! Then, return the browned steak to the skillet and pour the beef broth over the top. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 45 minutes. This slow simmer is what makes the steak tender and allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can have this hearty meal on the table in just over an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Hearty Flavor: Each bite is a burst of rich, savory goodness, thanks to the flavorful gravy that smothers the steak.
- Satisfying Texture: The tender cubed steak combined with the creamy gravy creates an irresistible mouthfeel that leaves you wanting more.
- Family Favorite: It’s a dish that brings everyone together, filling your home with warmth and love.
Tips for Success
To really nail your smothered cubed steak, here are some pro tips I’ve picked up over the years. First, don’t rush the browning process! It’s tempting to turn up the heat, but medium heat is your best friend. This allows the steak to get that beautiful golden crust without burning. Also, let the steak rest for a few minutes after browning before adding it to the gravy. This helps keep those juices locked in. If you want a thicker gravy, you can whisk a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last few minutes of simmering. And lastly, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to your liking, because everyone’s palate is different. With these tips, I promise you’ll be on your way to making the best smothered cubed steak ever!
Variations of Smothered Cubed Steak
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to switch up your smothered cubed steak! For a burst of freshness, try adding chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the gravy. You could also toss in some sliced mushrooms or bell peppers when you’re sautéing the onions and garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Want a little heat? A pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick! And if you’re a fan of creamy textures, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving for a richer sauce. The possibilities are endless—get creative and make it your own!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown for each serving of this delicious smothered cubed steak. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Fiber: 1g
This dish is hearty and satisfying, making it a great choice for a filling meal without compromising on flavor!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving smothered cubed steak, you can’t go wrong with classic comfort foods that soak up that delicious gravy! My personal favorite is creamy mashed potatoes—they’re like a blank canvas for all that flavor. Another great option is fluffy rice, which pairs perfectly with the rich sauce. If you want to add some greens to your plate, steamed broccoli or green beans bring a lovely crunch and color. And don’t forget about warm, crusty bread for mopping up every last drop of gravy! Trust me, your meal will feel complete and utterly satisfying.
FAQ About Smothered Cubed Steak
Can I use a different cut of meat? Absolutely! While cubed steak is traditional, you can use chuck roast or round steak. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on tenderness.
Can I make this dish in advance? Yes! You can prepare the smothered cubed steak ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
What can I do if my gravy is too thin? If your gravy isn’t thickening up as you’d like, you can whisk a little cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering gravy to thicken it up!
Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free flour for coating the steak, this smothered cubed steak can be a delicious gluten-free option!
How do I know when the steak is done? The steak is ready when it’s tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. The slow simmering process is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
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Smothered Cubed Steak: 7 Reasons You’ll Love This Comfort Dish
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty dish featuring tender cubed steak smothered in rich gravy.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs cubed steak
- 1 cup flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Season the cubed steak with salt and pepper.
- Coat the steak in flour.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Brown the steak on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Add onions and garlic to the skillet, sauté until soft.
- Return the steak to the skillet.
- Pour beef broth over the steak.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Serve hot with gravy over the steak.
Notes
- Serve with mashed potatoes or rice.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: smothered cubed steak, cubed steak, beef gravy