Why Cubed Steak Deserves a Spot in Your Kitchen
Cubed steak is one of those ingredients that’s often overlooked, but it’s incredibly versatile, affordable, and easy to cook. If you’ve ever bought cubed steak and wondered what to do with it, you’re in the right place!
This tenderized cut of beef is commonly used in comfort food classics like country-fried steak, but it can also be transformed into healthy meals, international dishes, and quick weeknight dinners. Whether you want to fry it, bake it, grill it, or slow cook it, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy cubed steak.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best recipes, cooking techniques, and meal ideas so you can make the most out of this budget-friendly meat.
Understanding Cubed Steak
How Cubed Steak is Made
Cubed steak is usually made from tougher cuts of beef, like top round or top sirloin, that are mechanically tenderized using a meat cuber or mallet. This process gives it the characteristic dimpled appearance, making it easier to cook and chew.
Nutritional Value
Cubed steak is a lean protein source, packed with essential nutrients like:
- Protein: Helps with muscle growth and repair.
- Iron: Supports red blood cell production.
- Zinc: Boosts the immune system.
- B Vitamins: Aid in energy production.
Best Ways to Tenderize It
Even though cubed steak is pre-tenderized, it can still be a bit tough if not cooked properly. Here’s how to make it extra tender:
- Marinate it in buttermilk, vinegar, or Worcestershire sauce for at least 30 minutes. Wondering why soaking cube steak in milk helps? Find out the science behind it in this guide to tenderizing cube steak.
- Use a meat mallet to break down the fibers further.
- Cook it low and slow if using a skillet or slow cooker.
Classic Cubed Steak Recipes
Country-Fried Cubed Steak
This Southern favorite is breaded, fried, and smothered in creamy gravy. Serve it with mashed potatoes and green beans for the ultimate comfort meal.
Smothered Cubed Steak with Gravy
For a less crispy but still rich and flavorful option, cook cubed steak in a skillet with onions and brown gravy until fork-tender.
Southern-Style Cubed Steak and Mashed Potatoes
Slow cook the cubed steak with onions, garlic, and beef broth for a melt-in-your-mouth dish served over creamy mashed potatoes.
Cubed Steak in Comfort Food Dishes
Slow Cooker Cubed Steak and Onions
Set it and forget it! Cook cubed steak in a slow cooker with onions, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce for a fall-apart tender meal. For more slow cooker inspiration, check out these delicious cube steak crockpot recipes that make weeknight dinners effortless.
Cubed Steak with Mushroom Gravy
Brown cubed steak in a pan, then simmer it in a rich mushroom gravy made with beef broth, onions, and fresh mushrooms.
Cubed Steak and Rice Casserole
A perfect one-pan meal! Bake cubed steak with rice, cream of mushroom soup, and vegetables for a hearty, no-fuss dinner.
Healthy Cubed Steak Options
If you’re looking for lighter ways to enjoy cubed steak, there are plenty of healthy options that don’t involve frying or heavy gravies.
Here are a few delicious and nutritious recipes:
Grilled Cubed Steak with Vegetables
Grilling cubed steak adds a smoky flavor while keeping it lean. Marinate it in olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs for extra tenderness. Serve it with grilled bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus for a well-balanced meal.
Low-Carb Cubed Steak Stir-Fry
For a keto-friendly meal, stir-fry cubed steak with low-carb veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Use a soy sauce or coconut aminos-based sauce for added flavor without added sugar. Serve over cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Baked Cubed Steak with Herbs
Baking cubed steak in the oven is one of the easiest and healthiest cooking methods. Season it with rosemary, thyme, and garlic, and bake it at 375°F for about 25 minutes. Pair it with a fresh salad or roasted sweet potatoes for a nutritious meal.
Cubed Steak in International Cuisine
Cubed steak isn’t just for Southern comfort food! It can be used in a variety of global dishes to create exciting and flavorful meals.
Mexican-Style Cubed Steak Tacos
Chop cubed steak into small pieces and season it with chili powder, cumin, garlic, and lime juice. Sear it in a hot pan and serve in warm corn tortillas with salsa, guacamole, and fresh cilantro.
Italian Cubed Steak Parmesan
For an Italian twist, bread cubed steak, bake it, and top it with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Serve over spaghetti for a delicious alternative to chicken parmesan.
Asian-Inspired Cubed Steak Stir-Fry
Marinate cubed steak in soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil before stir-frying it with bok choy, snap peas, and carrots. Serve over jasmine rice or noodles for a quick and flavorful Asian-inspired dish.
Quick and Easy Cubed Steak Meals
Short on time? These fast and simple recipes will help you get a meal on the table in no time!
One-Pan Cubed Steak and Potatoes
Sauté cubed steak with diced potatoes, onions, and bell peppers in a cast-iron skillet for a hearty, one-pan meal.
30-Minute Cubed Steak Skillet Meal
Cook cubed steak in a garlic butter sauce, add some sautéed spinach or kale, and serve it alongside quinoa or rice for a well-balanced, quick meal.
Sheet Pan Cubed Steak Dinner
For a no-fuss meal, bake cubed steak on a sheet pan with roasted vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Cubed Steak in Sandwiches and Wraps
Cubed steak can make for some amazing sandwiches and wraps that are quick, easy, and full of flavor.
Whether you like it cheesy, smoky, or spicy, here are some mouthwatering ideas:
Philly Cheesesteak-Style Cubed Steak
Thinly slice cooked cubed steak and sauté it with onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Load it onto a toasted hoagie roll and top with melted provolone or cheese sauce.
BBQ Cubed Steak Sandwich
Marinate cubed steak in barbecue sauce, grill or pan-sear it, and serve it on a toasted brioche bun with coleslaw and pickles for a tangy, smoky sandwich.
Cubed Steak Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb option, slice cubed steak into strips, season with garlic, soy sauce, and ginger, and serve it in crisp lettuce cups with shredded carrots and sesame seeds.
Cubed Steak for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Cubed steak is perfect for meal prep because it can be cooked in bulk and repurposed into different meals throughout the week.
Best Ways to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store cooked cubed steak in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individual portions in foil or place them in freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheat Properly: Use a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth to keep it tender. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can make the meat tough.
Freezer-Friendly Cubed Steak Recipes
- Slow Cooker Cubed Steak and Gravy – Freeze it in portions and reheat for easy dinners.
- Cubed Steak Stir-Fry – Store pre-cooked steak and veggies separately for a quick meal.
- Cubed Steak Tacos – Freeze seasoned cubed steak for fast taco nights.
Repurposing Leftovers into New Meals
- Turn leftover cubed steak into breakfast hash by dicing it and frying it with potatoes and eggs.
- Chop it up for a quick beef and veggie soup.
- Use it in a steak and cheese omelet.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
Cubed steak can be cooked in several ways, but to get the best texture and flavor, follow these essential cooking tips:
Best Seasonings for Cubed Steak
- Classic flavors: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Bold and smoky: Smoked paprika, cayenne, cumin, or chili powder.
- Herb-infused: Rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley.
- Asian-inspired: Soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
Cooking Methods: Frying, Baking, Grilling, Slow Cooking
- Frying: Best for country-fried steak—coat with flour and pan-fry in oil for a crispy crust.
- Baking: Great for low-fat meals—season and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
- Grilling: Perfect for healthy meals—marinate first and grill over medium heat.
- Slow Cooking: Best for tenderizing—cook with broth and veggies on low for 6-8 hours.
Preventing Toughness and Dryness
- Don’t overcook it—cubed steak is lean and can dry out easily.
- Use a marinade to break down the fibers before cooking. Looking for expert tips on keeping cube steak tender? Read this detailed guide on cooking cube steak without toughness.
- Cook at a lower temperature if using dry heat methods like frying or baking.
Side Dishes to Serve with Cubed Steak
Pairing cubed steak with the right sides can enhance the meal and add extra flavors and textures.
Classic Comfort Sides
- Mashed potatoes with brown gravy
- Mac and cheese
- Buttery cornbread
Healthy Side Dish Options
- Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus
- Steamed broccoli with garlic butter
- Quinoa or brown rice
Refreshing and Light Sides
- Mixed greens with balsamic dressing
- Coleslaw with apple cider vinaigrette
- Cucumber and tomato salad
Cubed Steak for Special Diets
Cubed steak can be adapted for various dietary needs, making it a great protein option for many lifestyles. Here are some ways to enjoy it while sticking to gluten-free, keto, or allergy-friendly diets.
Gluten-Free Cubed Steak Recipes
- Use almond flour or cornstarch instead of traditional flour for breading.
- Replace soy sauce with tamari for stir-fries.
- Opt for homemade gravy using gluten-free flour or arrowroot starch.
Keto and Low-Carb Cubed Steak Ideas
- Grilled cubed steak with buttered mushrooms and asparagus.
- Baked cubed steak with cheese and herbs.
- Cubed steak with cauliflower mash instead of mashed potatoes.
Dairy-Free and Allergy-Friendly Options
- Make gravy with coconut milk instead of cream.
- Skip the cheese and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Use olive oil instead of butter when pan-searing cubed steak.
Budget-Friendly Meals with Cubed Steak
Cubed steak is an affordable cut of beef, making it perfect for budget-conscious families. Here’s how to make it stretch for multiple meals.
Affordable Ways to Cook with Cubed Steak
- Slow cook it with potatoes and carrots for a complete one-pot meal.
- Use it in stews and soups to add protein without using large portions.
- Make steak fajitas by slicing it thin and cooking it with bell peppers.
Making Cubed Steak Stretch for Multiple Meals
- Double a batch of cubed steak and gravy—serve over rice one night and as a sandwich filling the next.
- Chop leftover cubed steak into small pieces and mix it into pasta or fried rice.
- Freeze extra portions to have quick meals on hand.
Cheap Yet Delicious Family Meals
- Cubed steak and rice casserole—a hearty, budget-friendly dish.
- Cubed steak tacos—use inexpensive tortillas and toppings to feed a crowd.
- Country-fried cubed steak with homemade gravy—a filling meal with pantry staples.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do you make cubed steak tender?
Marinate it, cook it low and slow, or use a meat mallet to break down the fibers before cooking.
2. Can you cook cubed steak without frying?
Yes! You can bake, grill, or slow cook it for healthier alternatives.
3. What’s the best way to season cubed steak?
Simple salt, pepper, and garlic powder work well, but you can also try smoky, herby, or spicy seasonings.
4. How do you store and freeze cubed steak?
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze them in airtight bags for up to 3 months.
5. Can you make cubed steak in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for a crispy crust.
6. What’s the difference between cubed steak and ground beef?
Cubed steak is a whole muscle cut that’s tenderized, while ground beef is minced and processed.
Master Cubed Steak: Your Next Delicious Meal Awaits
Cubed steak is a versatile, budget-friendly, and delicious cut of beef that can be used in countless recipes. Whether you prefer classic country-fried steak, healthy grilled options, or international flavors, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it.
With the right cooking techniques, seasonings, and meal pairings, cubed steak can become a go-to ingredient in your kitchen. Try out some of the recipes and ideas from this guide, and start making the most of this underrated cut of beef!