Are you tired of tough and chewy cube steak? Look no further than your oven for a solution!
Cooking cube steak in the oven can result in a tender and flavorful meal that is sure to please. Whether you prefer smothered in gravy or simply seasoned with salt and pepper, there are a variety of methods to choose from.
In this article, we will explore different ways to cook beef cube steak in the oven and provide tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
So preheat your oven and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Beef Cube Steak In The Oven?
There are several ways to cook beef cube steak in the oven, each with its own unique flavor and texture. Here are three popular methods:
1. Smothered in Gravy: This method involves searing the seasoned cube steak in a skillet before transferring it to a baking dish. A gravy is then prepared using flour, butter, and beef broth, which is poured over the steak before baking in the oven at 325°F for 45 minutes to an hour. The result is a tender and flavorful steak smothered in rich gravy.
2. Slow Cooker: For those who prefer a hands-off approach, cooking cube steak in a slow cooker is a great option. Simply place the seasoned steak in the slow cooker with a mixture of cream of mushroom soup and beef broth, and cook on low for at least 6 hours. The slow cooking process allows the meat to tenderize and results in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Lemon-Lime Method: This method involves seasoning the cube steak with Cajun seasoning and black pepper before placing it in a baking dish. Lemon-lime soda is then poured over the steak, followed by a mixture of cream of mushroom soup and dry onion soup mix. The dish is baked uncovered for about an hour until the meat reaches desired doneness. The soda adds a tangy sweetness to the dish while keeping the meat moist.
Choosing The Right Cut Of Cube Steak
When it comes to choosing the right cut of cube steak, it’s important to consider the tenderness and texture of the meat. While cube steak can be made from any cut of beef, it is typically made from tougher cuts such as the top round, bottom round, or sirloin tip. These cuts are ideal for cube steak because they can withstand the tenderizing process without falling apart.
It’s also important to look for lean cuts of beef that have minimal fat and gristle. Any excess fat or gristle should be trimmed away before tenderizing. This will ensure that the meat stays together during the cooking process and results in a more enjoyable eating experience.
While other cuts of meat such as the chuck can be used to make cube steak, they may not hold up as well during the tenderizing process and can result in smaller pieces or chunks instead of actual steaks.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right cut of cube steak is to talk to your local butcher. They can provide recommendations based on your preferences and cooking methods, and can even offer tips on how to prepare and cook the meat for optimal flavor and tenderness.
Marinating For Flavor And Tenderness
Marinating beef cube steak is a great way to infuse it with flavor and tenderness. One popular method is to soak the cubed steaks in milk for about an hour before cooking. This may seem unusual, but it actually helps to break down the proteins in the meat, resulting in a more tender texture. It also helps to remove any gamey or metallic flavors that may be present in the beef.
To marinate using this method, simply place the cubed steaks in a dish and cover them with milk. Let them soak for at least an hour, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. Once you’re ready to cook, remove the steaks from the milk and reserve it for use in the gravy or sauce.
Another way to marinate cube steak is to use a flavorful marinade. You can create your own marinade by combining ingredients like soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and herbs. Simply mix the marinade ingredients together and pour them over the cubed steaks in a dish or resealable plastic bag. Allow the meat to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
Marinating beef cube steak can take your dish to the next level by adding depth of flavor and tenderness. Whether you choose to soak it in milk or use a flavorful marinade, you’ll be sure to impress your family and friends with a delicious and tender meal.
Seasoning Options For Oven-Baked Cube Steak
When it comes to seasoning oven-baked cube steak, there are a variety of options to choose from. Here are some popular seasoning options:
1. Paprika and Garlic Powder: For a simple and classic flavor, mix together paprika and garlic powder with salt and pepper to taste. Dredge the cube steak in this mixture before searing it in a skillet and transferring it to a baking dish.
2. Cajun Seasoning: If you’re looking for a bit of spice, Cajun seasoning is a great option. This blend typically includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and other spices. Rub the seasoning onto the steak before baking in the oven.
3. Italian Seasoning: For a more herbaceous flavor profile, try using Italian seasoning. This blend typically includes basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and other herbs. Mix the seasoning with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese before coating the steak for a crispy crust.
4. Soy Sauce and Brown Sugar: For an Asian-inspired twist, mix together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic before pouring over the cube steak in a baking dish. Bake in the oven until tender and serve over rice.
No matter which seasoning option you choose, be sure to season both sides of the steak evenly for maximum flavor.
Pan-Searing Before Baking
Pan-searing before baking is a great way to add extra flavor and texture to your beef cube steak. To do this, start by seasoning the steak with your preferred seasonings, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a tablespoon of high-heat oil, such as avocado oil or refined olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned steak to the skillet and sear it for about 2 minutes on each side until browned.
After searing the steak, transfer it to an oven-safe baking dish and add any desired vegetables or additional seasonings. You can also prepare a gravy or sauce to pour over the steak before baking. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven at 325°F for 45 minutes to an hour until the steak is tender and cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Pan-searing before baking not only adds extra flavor, but it also helps to seal in the juices and keep the meat moist during the cooking process. It’s important to use high-heat oil when searing to prevent the oil from burning and producing toxic fumes. With this method, you can enjoy a delicious and tender beef cube steak straight from your oven.
Baking Methods: High Heat Vs. Low And Slow
When it comes to baking beef cube steak in the oven, there are two main methods: high heat and low and slow.
High heat involves searing the seasoned cube steak in a skillet before transferring it to the oven. This method is great for those who want a crispy exterior on their steak. However, it can be tricky to get the internal temperature just right without overcooking the meat. To prevent this, it’s important to use a meat thermometer and remove the steak from the oven when it reaches the desired temperature.
On the other hand, low and slow cooking involves baking the steak at a lower temperature for a longer period of time. This method is great for those who want a tender and juicy steak that falls apart with every bite. The slow cooking process allows the meat to break down and become more tender. However, this method requires more time and patience, as the steak needs to bake for several hours to achieve the desired texture.
Ultimately, the method you choose will depend on your personal preferences and how much time you have. Both methods can result in delicious and flavorful beef cube steak that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Testing For Doneness And Resting Time
No matter which method you choose, it is important to test the doneness of your beef cube steak before removing it from the oven. The best way to do this is by using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. For a medium-rare steak, the thermometer should read 135°F, while a medium steak should be around 145°F. Keep in mind that the temperature will continue to rise by a few degrees even after the steak is removed from the oven, so it is important not to overcook it.
Once your beef cube steak has reached the desired internal temperature, it is important to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak. A good rule of thumb is to let your steak rest for about 5 minutes for every inch of thickness. During this time, you can cover the steak with foil to keep it warm.
By following these tips for testing doneness and resting time, you can ensure that your beef cube steak is cooked to perfection every time. Whether you prefer it smothered in gravy, slow-cooked in a crockpot, or baked with lemon-lime soda, these methods are sure to result in a delicious and satisfying meal.