Cube Steak with Gravy

Cube Steak with Gravy features tender, seasoned meat enveloped in a savory mushroom gravy. This simple, one pan meal is easy to make and a family favorite!

If you love this cube steak recipe, you should try this easy Salisbury steak and one pan beef stroganoff!

I stumbled across cube steak last year and have been hooked ever since. 

Unlike traditional steak, it is a budget-friendly cut of beef that’s already been tenderized by pounding. This easy recipe makes a busy weeknight just a little better by having a hot and hearty meal ready in no time.

The seasoning, tender meat, and rich brown gravy gives a sense of home-cooked comfort that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a party, this easy cube steak with gravy is sure to impress.

What is Cube Steak?

This inexpensive cut of meat is typically from the top or bottom round. It has been mechanically tenderized , which results in a texture that absorbs seasonings and marinades. The cube-shaped indentations on the meat are what gives the steak its name, and that also helps the meat cook evenly and create a surface that the seasonings stick to. 

What is the Difference Between Cube Steak and Salisbury Steak?

The meats are similar in that both are usually covered in a brown gravy when served. However, cube steak is usually from the top round, whereas Salisbury steak comes from ground beef, a cheaper cut of beef.

Ingredients in Cube Steak with Gravy Recipe:

• Cube steaks
• Seasoning mix: salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika elevates the flavor profile of the steaks.
• All-purpose flour: helps brown the steaks and retain the juices.
• Olive oil

Mushroom Gravy:

• Unsalted butter
• Mushrooms: I used sliced baby bella mushrooms, but white or cremini mushrooms can be used.
• Beef broth
• Onion soup mix
• Worcestershire sauce
• Cornstarch and water: to thicken the gravy

How to Make Cube Steaks and Gravy:

1. Season: sprinkle both sides of steak with seasonings and then coat lightly in the flour mixture.
2. Cook: brown steak in olive oil for several minutes per side over medium heat, or until cooked through. Because cube steaks are thin, the cooking time isn’t long.

1. Make the gravy: scrap the bottom of the pan and then sauté mushrooms in butter until golden brown and tender. Stir in beef broth, onion soup mix, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Whisk: combine the cornstarch and cold water and the stir into the gravy mixture.  Add the steaks back to the skillet and simmer until thickened.

Slow Cooker Cube Steak Method:

Using the slow cooker is a convenient alternative if you’re short on time. This crock pot cube steak involves tenderizing the cube steaks, seasoning them, and transferring everything to the slow cooker.

This hands-off approach allows you to set it and forget it, allowing you to come home to a rich and delicious meal.

1. Season: like the stove top method, you will season and coat the steaks with flour.
2. Sear: heat the olive oil in a large skillet and sear the steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, just to ensure the coating will stick and retain extra flavor.
3. Gravy: add the gravy ingredients to the slow cooker (except for the cornstarch and water) and stir.  Add steaks to slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 7-8 hours. About 10 minutes before serving, mix together the cornstarch and water and stir into the gravy. Allow to thicken before serving.

Make Ahead Tips:

After preparing this recipe as directed, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. When it’s time to enjoy, reheat this cube steak dinner in a large skillet over low heat. If needed, add a splash of beef broth to thin the gravy. 

You can also reheat this steak recipe in the oven: place steak and gravy in a casserole dish and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Cook at 375°F for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

How to Store:

Place leftover cube steakk in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet on the stove top until warmed through.

To freeze: place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. When ready to serve, let thaw completely in the refrigerator.

What to Serve with Cube Steak and Gravy:

This simple recipe is versatile and can be served with a variety of side dishes. Egg noodles or white rice would be a tasty option to soak up the savory gravy.  

Some other decadent sides to go with this dinner include:

• Fluffy mashed potatoes
• Cheddar rosemary biscuits
• Creamy parmesan rice
• Baked cheesy cauliflower
• Roasted lemon parmesan asparagus

Variations:

• Add more vegetables: onions, carrots, green beans, or broccoli would pair well with this dish.
• Use different mushrooms: I used baby bella mushrooms in this recipe, but cremini, white, or portobello would be delicious.
• Switch the seasonings/sauces: add more garlic, some heat with red pepper flakes, or an Italian flair with diced tomatoes or sauce.
• Make an onion gravy: cut a medium yellow onion in slices and sauté over medium-high heat in the skillet before adding mushrooms.

Looking for More Beef Recipes? I’ve Got You Covered!

• Slow Cooker Beef Stew
• One Pot Meatball Stroganoff
• Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce
• Instant Pot Pizza Stuffed Peppers
• Cheesy Beef Tortellini Skillet
• Cheeseburger Casserole