Are you bored with your usual dinners? Time to change it up with tasty cast iron skillet cube steak recipes! I’ve picked 11 amazing dishes. They show off this affordable beef cut in a whole new light.
Cube steak works wonders in a cast iron skillet. The pan keeps the meat juicy and flavorful by sealing in the juices. You’ll find everything from traditional meals to creative new ideas in these recipes. They promise to hit the spot for your next meal.
Got 10 minutes to spare or need something for the whole family? You’re in luck. These recipes cater to different dietary needs, including gluten-free and low-carb preferences. I’ll also give you tips on making your cube steak dishes extra tender and flavorful.
Excited to try out some delicious cube steak recipes? Let’s start cooking!
Key Takeaways
- Cast iron skillets are great for cooking cube steak because they distribute heat evenly
- Cube steak is a cost-effective option for making a variety of tasty dishes
- There are gluten-free and low-carb recipes available for people with dietary restrictions
- Focusing on proper cooking methods can make your cube steak turn out tender and juicy
- There are quick and easy recipes suitable for hectic weeknight dinners
What is Cube Steak and Why Use Cast Iron?
Cube steak is a delicious beef cut perfect for fast meals. I enjoy cooking it in my trusty cast iron skillet. It brings out the best in this cut and makes cooking a joy.
Definition of cube steak
Cube steak is cut from top round or sirloin. It’s named for its tenderizing marks that look like cubes. Its thinness allows it to cook quickly, ideal for busy nights.
Benefits of cooking in cast iron
Using a cast iron skillet enhances cube steak meals. These skillets distribute heat evenly and keep food warm well. They can take high heat, helping to create a delicious sear. Besides, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet imparts more taste to the food.
Tenderizing techniques for cube steak
Even though cube steak is pre-tenderized, you can add more flavor:
- Marinate it in your favorite sauce for 30 minutes to one hour.
- If needed, flatten it more with a meat mallet.
- Cook quickly over high heat for the best taste.
Following these steps and using cast iron guarantees juicy and tasty cube steak. It’s a straightforward yet delightful meal that will please your family.
Essential Tools and Ingredients for Cast Iron Cube Steak Cooking
Cast iron cube steak cooking is a favorite of mine. Using a cast iron skillet, it’s easy and tasty. You’ll only need a few items to make a great meal. Now, let’s see what you should gather up for the best cube steak ever.
To start, get the right cookware. A seasoned 10.5-inch cast iron skillet is perfect for making 4-6 cube steaks at once. You can’t go without tongs for turning and a meat thermometer to check doneness. Also, a solid spatula is a must for getting up the good, crispy parts.
Next, on to what you’ll put in your cube steak. Gather these:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/4 pound each)
- 2 tablespoons of a strong oil (like avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour for a coat
- 2 tablespoons butter for extra taste
A mix of these items makes a juicy, seasoned steak. A good oil gives it a nice outside. Worcestershire sauce deepens the flavor. Coating it with flour makes a crispy shell. Butter at the end adds a smooth touch. Want something different? Try using your cast iron skillet for making a deep-dish pizza!
Classic Pan-Fried Cube Steak with Worcestershire Sauce
I enjoy cooking cube steak in my cast iron skillet. It’s a fast and tasty meal, great for rushed evenings. The key is using Worcestershire sauce. It makes the meat more flavorful.
Ingredients and Measurements
Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting dish:
- 4 cube steaks (5 oz each)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to make a perfect cube steak:
- Heat olive oil in your skillet on high.
- Season the steaks with salt and pepper.
- Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Pour Worcestershire sauce and let it thicken for 1-2 minutes.
- Take the steaks off, let them rest, and then serve.
Tips for the Perfect Sear
For a great crust on your cube steak:
- Heat your skillet well before putting in the steak.
- Cook a few steaks at a time, not all together.
- Wait for a crust to form before you turn the meat.
- Use tongs to turn the meat, not a fork.
This recipe is gluten-free and low in carbs, which is great for many diets. For a full meal, serve it with a healthy beef and broccoli stir-fry on the side.
Ingredient | Purpose |
---|---|
Olive oil | Prevents sticking and aids in browning |
Kosher salt | Enhances flavor and helps create a crust |
Black pepper | Adds spice and depth to the dish |
Worcestershire sauce | Provides umami flavor and tenderizes the meat |
Savory Mushroom and Onion Smothered Cube Steak
This recipe is for those who love hearty meals. It brings a lot of comfort to the table. You’ll be making a smothered cube steak. It brings together tender beef with mushrooms and onions. Everything is cooked in a cast-iron skillet. The taste? It’s really delicious and perfect for family dinners.
Here’s what you need for this recipe:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/2 pound each)
- 1 pound sliced mushrooms
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Time to cook up this tasty dish:
- Season the cube steaks with salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high.
- Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side, then take them out.
- Add more oil, mushrooms, and onions to the skillet. Cook them down.
- Throw in the flour, mix it well.
- Slowly add the beef broth while stirring. This makes a great gravy.
- Put the steaks back in the skillet, cover them with the mushrooms and onions.
- Let it all simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the steaks are tender and the gravy is thick.
This meal goes well with many different sides. For a quick and tasty option, try it with mashed potatoes or rice. They’re perfect for soaking up the yummy gravy.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 420 |
Protein | 35g |
Fat | 25g |
Carbohydrates | 15g |
Fiber | 3g |
Gluten-Free Cube Steak with Garlic Butter Sauce
I enjoy making this gluten-free cube steak with garlic butter sauce. It’s cooked in a cast iron skillet. It offers a mix of great flavors. This recipe is both tasty and simple to prepare at home.
Gluten-free Dredging Alternatives
Want a crispy outside on your steak? Use these dredging ideas:
- Almond flour: 1 cup
- Coconut flour: 3/4 cup
- Cornstarch: 1/2 cup
Combine your flour choice with salt and pepper. Next, evenly coat the steak before frying in the skillet.
Rich Garlic Butter Sauce
The garlic butter sauce makes this dish delicious. Here’s the simple way to cook it:
- Melt butter in a skillet
- Add minced garlic, cook briefly
- Mix in parsley and lemon juice
- Add salt and pepper
This sauce is the perfect match for the crispy steak. Cooking in a cast iron skillet keeps it tender inside and crispy outside.
Pairing Suggestions
Add these gluten-free sides to your meal:
- Roasted vegetables (broccoli, carrots, Brussels sprouts)
- Quinoa pilaf
- Mashed cauliflower
You might like this shrimp and broccoli stir-fry recipe for a similar taste twist.
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Cube steak | 1 lb (450g) | Main protein |
Gluten-free flour | 1 cup | Crispy coating |
Butter | 4 tbsp | Base for sauce |
Garlic | 4 cloves | Flavor enhancer |
Lemon juice | 1 tsp | Brightness and acidity |
Low Carb Parmesan Crusted Cube Steak
Creating tasty, low-carb meals is my passion. One of my top dishes is low carb cube steak. It’s got a crunchy Parmesan crust. I make it in a trusty cast iron skillet, making it a hit for carb-watchers and keto fans.
Here are the ingredients for this tasty treat:
- 2 pounds beef cube steak
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, whisked
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Ready to cook up this amazing dish? Here’s how:
- In a dish, combine Parmesan, almond flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each cube steak in beaten eggs, then in the Parmesan mix.
- Warm olive oil in the skillet on medium-high.
- Cook steaks about 3-4 minutes per side, until they’re golden and done inside.
- Let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
A cast iron skillet is essential here. It ensures the Parmesan crust is just right, not burnt. Add some steamed veggies or a salad, and you’ve got a full meal that’s low on carbs.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 487 kcal |
Protein | 30.9 g |
Fat | 39.5 g |
Carbohydrates | 1.7 g |
Fiber | 0.5 g |
This low carb recipe is not only yummy but also good for you. It’s packed with protein and fats we need, while keeping the carbs really low. Plus, that Parmesan coating gives it an awesome taste. Try it yourself with your skillet, and enjoy!
Spicy Southwest Cube Steak with Peppers and Onions
I adore making Southwest cube steak in my trusty cast iron. It turns ordinary cube steak into a zesty Tex-Mex treat. This dish is quick, simple, and full of flavor. We will look at how to whip up this tasty dish.
Selecting and Preparing Peppers
This cast iron recipe uses bell peppers and jalapeños. I pick red and orange bell peppers for their sweet twist and bright colors. To spice things up, I include a jalapeño, removing the seeds and dicing it. Then, I cut the peppers into thin strips and finely chop the jalapeño.
Creating a Zesty Southwest Seasoning Blend
A splash of homemade Southwest seasoning turns the cube steak into a flavor party. You’ll need:
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Combine these in a small bowl. Then, rub the mix on both sides of the cube steak before you cook it.
Serving Suggestions for a Fiesta-Inspired Meal
For the perfect Southwest cube steak dinner, consider these serving tips:
- Warm flour tortillas
- Cilantro-lime rice
- Black beans
- Sliced avocado
- Sour cream
- Fresh salsa
This meal makes enough for 4 people and is ready in only 30 minutes. It’s ideal for a busy night, adding a taste of the Southwest to your meal table.
Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
---|---|---|
Cube steak | 1 lb | Main protein |
Bell peppers | 2 (mixed colors) | Sweetness and color |
Onion | 1 medium | Flavor base |
Jalapeño | 1 | Heat (optional) |
Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For cooking |
Hearty Cube Steak and Gravy Over Mashed Potatoes
I enjoy making this dish for its comfort and heartiness. It combines tender cube steak, rich gravy, and mashed potatoes. It’s ideal for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Here’s what you need for the recipe:
- 4 cube steaks (about 1/4 inch thick)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups prepared mashed potatoes
Begin by mixing flour, paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish. Coat each steak in this mix. Then, heat the oil in a skillet and cook the steaks. They need about 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden. Set them aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onions until soft. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring up any bits. Let the gravy thicken. After, add the steaks back and cook for 5 more minutes.
Place the cube steak and gravy over the mashed potatoes. It’s a fulfilling, budget-friendly meal. This choice is excellent for families, packed with protein.
You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. This is handy for quick meals on busy nights. Enjoy this comfort food favorite!
Italian-Inspired Cube Steak Parmigiana
I enjoy mixing Italian flavors with my cast iron recipes. Cube steak Parmigiana is a standout in this mix. It’s great for 4 to 6 people and prep takes 40 minutes.
Choosing the right tomato sauce
A good marinara sauce is key for real Italian taste. Want something new? Make your own using San Marzano tomatoes. It adds a special kick to the dish.
Melting cheese techniques in cast iron
Cast iron’s even heating is perfect for melting cheese. I mix fresh mozzarella with Parmesan. Here’s how to do it:
- Brown cube steaks for 3 minutes per side in 2 tablespoons of bacon fat or cooking oil.
- Coat the steaks with a mix of 1/3 cup flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
- Add Italian-style bread crumbs and shredded Parmesan for crunch.
- Bake until golden-brown and bubbly after covering at 350°F for 45-50 minutes. Uncover for the last 5-10 minutes.
Herb garnishes for enhanced flavor
Adding fresh herbs makes cube steak Parmigiana even better. I use basil or parsley right before serving. It boosts the taste and smell.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 710 |
Protein | 43g |
Carbs | 38g |
Fat | 43g |
Pair it with Instant Pot mashed potatoes or a garden salad. This makes a complete, tasty meal. The Italian touch makes it special.
Tender Cube Steak with Red Wine Reduction
I enjoy making fancy meals at home. This cube steak with red wine sauce is a great example. It’s both fancy and simple. This recipe makes enough for 4 people and only takes 35 minutes to make.
Here’s what you need for this recipe:
- 1 pound cube steak
- 1 tablespoon bacon fat or olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 shallot, minced
- 1/3 cup dry red wine
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
Start by heating a cast iron skillet on medium-high. Add bacon fat or olive oil. Season the steak with salt and pepper. Cook it for 2-3 minutes on each side. Then, set the steak aside.
To make the sauce, reduce the heat. Add minced shallot to the skillet and cook until soft. Pour in the red wine and let it simmer to thicken. Add beef broth, brown sugar, and thyme. Simmer for 5 more minutes, then mix in cold butter for a rich texture.
Put the steak back in the skillet to coat with the sauce. Serve it right away for a fancy meal at home. It goes well with mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 512 |
Protein | 49g |
Carbohydrates | 9g |
Fat | 26g |
Sodium | 1041mg |
This recipe shows how to turn cheap meat into a fancy dish. Cooking in a cast iron pan gives the steak a great sear. The wine sauce makes it taste special. It’s perfect for a nice dinner at home!
Asian-Fusion Teriyaki Cube Steak Stir-Fry
I enjoy mixing different cooking styles. This teriyaki cube steak dish combines American and Asian tastes. It shows how using a cast iron skillet can make a meal stand out.
Homemade Teriyaki Sauce
The star of this fusion meal is the teriyaki sauce. To make it, I mix 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup mirin, 2 tablespoons sake, and 3 tablespoons brown sugar. This sauce gives the cube steak a perfect sweet and savory flavor.
Vegetable Pairings
I like to use fresh and colorful veggies in this dish. The recipe needs 6 cups of mixed veggies. This includes 2 cups of sugar snap peas, 1 cup of carrots, 2 cups of bell peppers, and 1 cup of scallions.
Stir-Frying in Cast Iron
Using a cast iron skillet is key for this dish. Its ability to hold heat well is perfect for fast cooking at high temperatures. First, I heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil until it’s very hot. Then, I cook the cube steak for 2-3 minutes on each side.
After the meat is cooked, I stir-fry the veggies for a few minutes. Then, the steak goes back in with the teriyaki sauce. After mixing everything well, it’s done in just 10 minutes. You can find more quick Asian recipes, like this shrimp and dumpling stir-fry recipe, on our website.
Country-Style Breaded Cube Steak with Cream Gravy
Making breaded cube steak with cream gravy is a joy. It brings a hearty, country feel to the table. This recipe, good for 6-8, is a classic comfort.
- 2 lbs cube steak (made from bottom or top round)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil for frying
For the cream gravy:
- 1/3 cup oil from frying steaks
- 1/3 cup flour
- 4 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Start by blending flour, salt, pepper, and paprika in a dish. Next, dip steaks in eggs, then coat them with the flour mix. Cook steaks in a skillet with oil until they’re crispy and golden.
The gravy is next. Keep 1/3 cup oil in the skillet and mix in flour. Slowly add beef broth, stirring, until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
Top the steaks with cream gravy for a homely meal. Great with mashed potatoes and green beans.
Nutritional Info (per serving) | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 451 kcal |
Protein | 48g |
Fat | 25g |
Carbohydrates | 6g |
Sodium | 1880mg |
This recipe’s loved, getting 4.79 from 14 votes. For more taste, season with Jane’s Krazy Mixed-Up Salt before cooking. Save leftovers in the fridge for 4 days or freeze for 4 months.
Vegetarian “Cube Steak” Alternative Using Portobello Mushrooms
I enjoy making vegetarian versions of traditional meat meals. My go-to is vegetarian cube steak made with portobello mushrooms. It feels like old-school comfort food but fits a plant-based diet. Let me show you how to cook up this tasty dish, great for when you use your cast iron!
To make this, get these things:
- 4 large portobello mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
Start by cleaning your portobellos and taking off the stems. Mix your olive oil, soy sauce, garlic and onion powder, plus pepper in a bowl. Coat both sides of the mushrooms with this mixture and let them soak it up for 15 minutes.
Get your cast iron pan hot over medium-high heat. Dip the marinated mushrooms lightly in flour. Now, put them in the pan and cook them for 4-5 minutes on each side. They’ll turn golden brown and be nice and tender. Cooking these in a cast iron skillet makes them crispy on the outside but still juicy inside.
Serve your portobello “cube steaks” with your top picks for sides. Mashed potatoes and steamed veggies are a great choice. This recipe shows that vegetarian meals can hit the spot, just like the meaty ones!
Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Your Cast Iron Skillet
Caring for your cast iron skillet well makes it last for a long time. It’s essential for great cooking and a smooth, non-stick surface. These are several key care tips.
Proper seasoning techniques
Seasoning your skillet well is important. I rub it with vegetable oil and bake at 450°F for an hour. This creates a tough, non-stick layer that gets better over time.
Cleaning methods without damaging the seasoning
I clean with just hot water and a stiff brush to keep the seasoning safe. For tough spots, I use salt as a natural scrub. Then, I make sure it’s totally dry.
Storage tips for longevity
Keep it in a dry spot to avoid rust. Also, before storing, add a little oil to protect the seasoning. For stacking, a paper towel between each skillet prevents damage.
Do’s | Don’ts |
---|---|
Cook fatty foods regularly | Use soap for cleaning |
Dry thoroughly after washing | Cook acidic foods for long periods |
Re-season as needed | Store in damp areas |
By applying these tips, your cast iron skillet will only get better. With regular love and care, it’ll be the best pan to cook with, always.
Nutritional Benefits and Considerations of Cube Steak Dishes
Cube steak is full of protein. One serving of our recipe has 25g. This makes it great for building and repairing muscles. It’s also rich in iron, which is good for your blood and boosts energy.
Our dish has 317 calories in each serving. It has 20g of fat and just 7g of carbs. This is perfect for people on a low-carb diet. The gravy, however, has 5g extra carbs. So, be mindful if you’re watching your carb intake.
Cube steak is a cost-effective meat. It’s flavorful and nutritious, too. Typically made from lean beef cuts, like top round or top sirloin. Cooking it at medium heat until it’s 165°F keeps it tender. It also avoids added fats or calories.
Pair your cube steak with lots of veggies. This complements the protein and adds vitamins and fiber. Remember, eating cube steak in moderation is best. It’s part of a varied diet that’s good for you.