How to Make Cubed Steaks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cubed steak is a budget-friendly, delicious, and versatile cut of beef that is commonly used in Southern and home-cooked meals. Whether you fry it up for a crispy crust or smother it in rich brown gravy, cubed steak is a comfort food classic. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making tender, flavorful cubed steaks from scratch.

What is Cubed Steak?

Cubed steak is a cut of beef, usually from the top round or sirloin, that has been tenderized mechanically with a meat mallet or through a butcher’s tenderizing machine. The result is a piece of beef with small indentations, giving it a “cubed” texture.

Since cubed steak comes from tougher cuts, it requires proper cooking techniques to ensure it remains tender and flavorful. The good news? When prepared the right way, cubed steak can be one of the most satisfying meals on your dinner table.

Ingredients Needed

Before getting started, gather the following ingredients:

For the Steak:

• 4 cubed steaks (beef or pork)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 cup buttermilk (optional for tenderizing)
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter for frying

For the Gravy (Optional):

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• ½ cup milk (for creamier gravy)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step 1: Preparing the Steak

Tenderizing (Optional but Recommended)

Even though cubed steak is already pre-tenderized, soaking it in buttermilk for 30 minutes to an hour helps further break down tough muscle fibers. The acidity in the buttermilk ensures a juicy and soft texture, making it a great step for the best results.

Seasoning the Steak

Before cooking, pat the steaks dry with paper towels. In a shallow bowl, mix the flour with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper. This seasoned flour will create a flavorful crust when frying.

Dredge each steak into the flour mixture, ensuring an even coating on both sides. For an extra crispy crust, dip the steak in buttermilk before dredging again in the flour. Let the steaks rest for about 5 minutes to allow the coating to adhere.

Step 2: Cooking Methods

Cubed steak can be cooked in several ways depending on your preference. Below are three methods:

1. Pan-Frying (Classic and Crispy)

Pan-frying is the most traditional way to cook cubed steak, giving it a delicious crispy exterior.

How to Pan-Fry Cubed Steak:

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the dredged cubed steaks in the pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
3. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
4. Remove from the pan and place on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.

2. Baking (Healthier Option)

If you prefer a healthier alternative with less oil, baking is a great choice.

How to Bake Cubed Steak:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly grease it with oil.
3. Place the seasoned cubed steaks on the tray and lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
4. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

3. Slow Cooker (For Ultra-Tender Steak)

The slow cooker is perfect for making cubed steak melt-in-your-mouth tender, especially when cooked in a rich gravy.

How to Slow Cook Cubed Steak:

1. Place the cubed steaks in the slow cooker.
2. Mix beef broth, garlic powder, and onion powder, then pour over the steaks.
3. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until fork-tender.

Step 3: Making the Gravy (Optional but Recommended!)

If you want to take your cubed steak to the next level, making homemade gravy is the way to go.

How to Make Brown Gravy:

1. Using the same pan used to fry the steaks, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown.
3. Gradually add 1 ½ cups of beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
4. Add ½ cup milk for a creamy consistency (optional).
5. Simmer until thickened, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pour the rich, velvety gravy over the cubed steaks for the ultimate comfort meal.

Serving Suggestions

Cubed steak pairs well with many side dishes. Here are some delicious ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: A creamy base to soak up all that delicious gravy.
• Rice or Noodles: Perfect for a hearty meal.
• Steamed Vegetables: A nutritious and balanced side option.
• Cornbread or Biscuits: Ideal for sopping up the gravy.

Tips for the Best Cubed Steak

• Don’t Overcook: Cooking cubed steak too long will make it tough. For pan-frying, keep an eye on the time and remove the steak once golden brown.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for beef.
• Double Dredge for Crispiness: If you love extra crispy steak, dip it in buttermilk and flour twice before frying.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the steak rest for 5 minutes after cooking to keep the juices locked in.

Conclusion

Cubed steak is a delicious and budget-friendly dish that can be cooked in multiple ways—pan-fried for a crispy crust, baked for a healthier version, or slow-cooked for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. When paired with a rich homemade gravy and served with comforting sides like mashed potatoes or biscuits, this dish becomes a family favorite.

Try making cubed steak at home today, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods.