How Do You Cook Cube Steak So It Isn’t Tough?

Mastering Cube Steak: Say Goodbye to Tough & Chewy Meat

Cube steak is a budget-friendly and versatile cut of beef, commonly used in dishes like chicken-fried steak and smothered cube steak. However, one of the biggest challenges when cooking cube steak is preventing it from becoming tough and chewy. Because it comes from a leaner cut of beef, improper cooking methods can result in a dry, rubbery texture.

The good news? With the right techniques, you can turn cube steak into a tender and flavorful dish that practically melts in your mouth! Whether you’re frying, braising, or slow-cooking, understanding the best methods will ensure a delicious outcome every time.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything from tenderizing cube steak to the best cooking techniques to keep it soft and juicy. Plus, we’ll share common mistakes to avoid and provide a step-by-step recipe for perfectly tender cube steak. Let’s get started!

Understanding Cube Steak

What Is Cube Steak?

Cube steak is a cut of beef, usually from the top round or top sirloin, that has been tenderized mechanically. It gets its name from the cube-shaped indentations left by the tenderizing process. Despite this pre-tenderizing, cube steak still needs proper cooking methods to avoid toughness.

Why Is Cube Steak Tough?

Cube steak is naturally tougher than premium cuts like ribeye or filet mignon because it comes from a hardworking muscle area. It contains more connective tissue, which can become chewy if not cooked correctly.

How Tenderizing Helps

Even though cube steak is already tenderized mechanically, additional tenderizing can further break down the muscle fibers and enhance its texture.

Here are a few ways to tenderize cube steak before cooking:

• Using a Meat Mallet: Lightly pounding the steak with a mallet further breaks down fibers.
• Marinating: Soaking the steak in an acidic marinade (such as buttermilk, vinegar, or citrus juice) helps soften it.
• Salt Tenderizing: Coating the steak with coarse salt for 30 minutes draws out moisture and helps break down proteins.

Best Cooking Methods to Keep Cube Steak Tender

Cooking cube steak properly is the key to ensuring it stays tender and juicy. The following methods will help you achieve the perfect texture while maximizing flavor.

Slow Cooking (Crockpot Method)

One of the easiest ways to keep cube steak tender is by cooking it in a slow cooker. The long cooking time at low heat helps break down connective tissues, resulting in a fork-tender texture.

How to Slow Cook Cube Steak:

1. Season the cube steak with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
2. In a skillet, sear the steak on both sides for 2 minutes to lock in juices.
3. Transfer the steak to a slow cooker and add beef broth, onions, and garlic.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the steak is tender.
5. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting meal.

Pan-Frying with Proper Techniques

Pan-frying is a quick way to cook cube steak, but the key is not overcooking it. High heat can make it tough, so using a gentle heat and short cooking time helps keep it soft.

Steps for Pan-Frying Cube Steak:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil.
2. Dredge the cube steak in flour (optional) to create a crispy coating.
3. Place the steak in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Remove from heat once it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F (medium-rare to medium) for the best tenderness.
5. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Braising Cube Steak for Maximum Tenderness

Braising is a foolproof way to cook cube steak and keep it tender. This method involves searing the meat first, then simmering it in liquid until soft.

Braising Method:

1. Season the steak with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear it in a pan over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and onions.
4. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45-60 minutes.
5. Serve with the flavorful gravy created during cooking.

Baking Cube Steak in the Oven

Oven-baking cube steak at a low temperature helps prevent toughness while allowing it to absorb flavors from sauces and seasonings.

How to Bake Cube Steak:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Place the steak in a baking dish with onions, garlic, and beef broth.
3. Cover with foil and bake for 60-90 minutes.
4. Check for tenderness before serving.

Using a Meat Mallet for Extra Tenderness

If you want an extra soft texture, using a meat mallet before cooking helps break down the steak’s fibers. Simply place the steak between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound it gently with a mallet until it’s thinner and more tender.

Ingredients That Enhance Tenderness

Certain ingredients can naturally tenderize cube steak while adding extra flavor. Using the right marinades, liquids, and fats can make a significant difference in texture.

The Role of Marinades

Marinating cube steak helps break down muscle fibers, making it softer and more flavorful. The best marinades contain acidic components that help tenderize the meat.

Best Ingredients for Marinades:

• Buttermilk: Helps soften the steak while adding a mild tangy flavor.
• Vinegar (Apple cider, balsamic, or white vinegar): Breaks down proteins and adds depth to the meat’s flavor.
• Lemon or Lime Juice: The citric acid helps tenderize the steak while giving it a fresh taste.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Contains natural enzymes that improve the meat’s texture.
• Soy Sauce: Adds umami flavor while acting as a mild tenderizer.

How to Marinate Cube Steak:

1. Combine your chosen marinade ingredients in a bowl.
2. Submerge the cube steak and cover with plastic wrap.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
4. Remove from marinade and pat dry before cooking.

Cooking with Broth and Sauces

Simmering cube steak in broth, gravy, or sauces helps prevent it from drying out. The moisture keeps the steak tender while adding rich flavors.

Best Liquids to Cook Cube Steak In:

• Beef broth or stock – Adds deep, meaty flavor and keeps the steak moist.
• Mushroom or onion gravy – Provides a creamy, flavorful coating.
• Tomato-based sauces – Slight acidity helps break down muscle fibers.
• Wine (Red or White) – Enhances the depth of flavor while aiding in tenderness.

Tip: When using these liquids, cook cube steak slowly at a low temperature to get the best results.

The Right Oils and Butter

Fats like butter and oil help seal in moisture and prevent cube steak from drying out.

Best Fats for Cooking Cube Steak:

• Butter: Adds richness and enhances tenderness.
• Olive Oil: Helps prevent sticking and adds a mild, smooth flavor.
• Vegetable Oil: Good for high-heat frying while keeping the steak moist.

To ensure the best texture, always preheat the oil or butter in your pan before adding the steak. This locks in juices and prevents the meat from becoming chewy.

Step-By-Step Recipe: Perfectly Tender Cube Steak

Now that we’ve covered the best methods and ingredients for tenderizing cube steak, here’s a foolproof recipe to make it juicy, flavorful, and tender every time.

Ingredients Needed

For this recipe, we’ll use pan-frying with a simple gravy to keep the steak moist and tender.

For the Cube Steak:

• 4 cube steaks
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for coating)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter

For the Gravy:

• 1 medium onion (sliced)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup milk or heavy cream (for creamier gravy)
• 2 tablespoons flour (to thicken)

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Tenderize the Steak

• Place the cube steak between two sheets of plastic wrap.
• Use a meat mallet to gently pound the steak (especially on thicker areas) to further break down fibers.
• This step helps prevent toughness and makes the steak extra tender.

Step 2: Season the Steak

• In a small bowl, mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
• Rub the seasoning evenly over both sides of the cube steaks.

Step 3: Dredge in Flour

• Place the flour on a large plate or shallow dish.
• Dredge each steak in the flour, making sure it’s evenly coated.
• Shake off excess flour to prevent a thick, doughy coating.

Cooking Instructions

Step 4: Sear the Cube Steak

• Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Once hot, add the cube steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
• Remove the steaks and set them aside.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

• In the same skillet, add sliced onions and sauté until softened (about 3 minutes).
• Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the onions and stir for 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
• Slowly whisk in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
• Let the gravy simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens.
• If you prefer a creamier gravy, add ½ cup milk or heavy cream and stir.

Step 6: Simmer the Steak in the Gravy

• Return the seared cube steaks to the skillet.
• Cover and let them simmer in the gravy on low heat for 20 minutes.
• This slow cooking helps further tenderize the steak and infuse it with flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Tender cube steak pairs perfectly with comfort-food side dishes like:

• Mashed potatoes (to soak up the gravy)
• Steamed rice
• Roasted or sautéed vegetables
• Buttery biscuits

Tip: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain moisture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the right cooking method, certain mistakes can make cube steak tough and chewy. Avoid these common errors to ensure your steak turns out tender and delicious.

1. Overcooking the Meat

Why it’s a mistake: Cube steak is lean and lacks a lot of fat, so cooking it too long at high heat makes it dry and rubbery.

How to avoid it:

• Cook cube steak on medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side for pan-frying.
• If braising or slow-cooking, keep the heat low and cook for longer to break down fibers.
• Use a meat thermometer—remove the steak from heat when it reaches 130-135°F (medium-rare to medium).

2. Using High Heat Incorrectly

Why it’s a mistake: Cooking cube steak at very high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside too chewy.

How to avoid it:

• Use medium heat when pan-frying to allow even cooking.
• If grilling, marinate beforehand to lock in moisture.
• For braising, keep the liquid at a gentle simmer, not a rolling boil.

3. Skipping the Tenderizing Step

Why it’s a mistake: Even though cube steak is mechanically tenderized, additional tenderizing helps further soften it.

How to avoid it:

• Use a meat mallet to pound the steak before cooking.
• Marinate it for at least 30 minutes in an acidic mixture (buttermilk, vinegar, or citrus).
• Salt the meat and let it sit for 30 minutes before cooking to help break down muscle fibers.

4. Not Using Enough Moisture

Why it’s a mistake: Cube steak dries out quickly without liquid or fat.

How to avoid it:

• Braise the steak in broth or gravy if cooking for a long time.
• Use butter or oil when pan-frying to prevent it from drying out.
• Serve with a rich sauce to enhance juiciness.

5. Not Resting the Meat After Cooking

Why it’s a mistake: Cutting into cube steak immediately after cooking causes the juices to escape, making the meat dry.

How to avoid it:

• Let the steak rest for at least 5 minutes before serving to lock in moisture.
• Cover with foil while resting to keep it warm.

6. Cooking Straight from the Fridge

Why it’s a mistake: Cold meat doesn’t cook evenly, leading to tough spots.

How to avoid it:

• Let the steak sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
• This helps it cook evenly and stay tender.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about cooking cube steak so it isn’t tough.

1. How long should I cook cube steak for tenderness?

The cooking time depends on the method:

• Pan-frying: 3-4 minutes per side over medium heat.
• Braising: 45-60 minutes on low heat.
• Slow cooking: 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.
• Baking: 60-90 minutes at 325°F.

Tip: Overcooking at high heat will make it tough, so use slow cooking methods when possible.

2. Can I cook cube steak in an air fryer?

Yes! While air frying won’t tenderize the steak as much as braising, it’s a great option for a crispy texture.

How to air fry cube steak:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly coat the steak in oil and seasonings.
3. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Let it rest before serving.

3. What is the best way to season cube steak?

Cube steak absorbs flavors well, so a good seasoning blend includes:

• Salt & pepper (base flavor)
• Garlic powder & onion powder (savory depth)
• Paprika or cayenne pepper (for a slight kick)
• Worcestershire sauce (umami and tenderness)

Tip: Let the seasoning sit for 15 minutes before cooking for better absorption.

4. Should I soak cube steak in milk before cooking?

Yes, soaking cube steak in milk or buttermilk for 30 minutes can help tenderize it. The lactic acid in milk breaks down proteins, making the steak softer.

5. Can I use cube steak for stir-fry?

Yes, but it requires quick cooking. To keep it tender:

• Slice cube steak into thin strips against the grain.
• Marinate in soy sauce and cornstarch for 30 minutes.
• Cook quickly in a hot skillet or wok for 2-3 minutes.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy Perfectly Tender Cube Steak Every Time

Cooking cube steak so it isn’t tough comes down to proper tenderizing, the right cooking method, and using enough moisture. Whether you choose to pan-fry, braise, bake, or slow-cook, the key is to avoid overcooking and use marinades or gravies to keep the meat juicy.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can turn cube steak into a tender, flavorful meal that everyone will love. Try out different methods and find the one that works best for you!