Mastering the Art of Cooking Cube Steak in the Oven

In the landscape of skillet-cooked steak, there's often a misconception that this delicious dish must be prepared exclusively over a hot griddle. However, nowadays, many home chefs are discovering the joy and convenience of oven-baked steak. Cube steak, when properly prepared, can be a hearty and comforting meal, given the right oven techniques. Let's explore how to cook cube steak in the oven and why it's a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

Why Steer Away from the Oven?

It's a common belief that cooking cube steak in the oven is akin to boiling socks—ineffectual and unsatisfactory. However, it's time to debunk this myth. An oven is a versatile tool that can transform simple ingredients into a delectable, satisfying meal. While it may not have the same sizzling satisfaction as frying, it offers a different kind of flavor, texture, and convenience. The oven creates a moist, tender, and flavorful steak that is perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients You'll Need

2 lbs beef cube steak 8 oz fresh mushrooms, thickly sliced 2 tablespoons oil, divided 32 ounces beef stock 3 tablespoons butter Seasoned flour: (1 cup flour, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp pepper)

Step-By-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious oven-baked cube steak:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a bowl, mix all the ingredients for the seasoned flour. Reserve 1/4 cup for thickening later. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Dredge the cube steaks in the seasoned flour and brown them on each side for about 4 minutes per side. Remove the steaks from the skillet and place them on a plate. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet and sauté the mushrooms until they start to brown. Remove the mushrooms from the pan. In the same pan, add the butter and let it melt. Whisk in the reserved flour to create a smooth paste known as a roux. Let the flour and butter cook for 2 minutes. Whisk in the beef stock and stir until it begins to thicken. Place the cube steaks and mushrooms in a 13x9-inch (3L) oblong pan. Pour the gravy over the steaks and mushrooms, then cover the pan with foil. Bake the cube steaks in the oven for 2 hours until they are tender and cooked through.

Enhance Your Culinary Skills

For more delicious and versatile ways to cook cube steak, check out these insightful articles:

Oven Cube Steak - The Midnight Baker Easy Baked Cubed Beef Steaks - Oven or Crock Pot Recipe Cooking Cube Steak in the Oven - Steak University

Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, mastering the art of oven-baked cube steak will add a new dimension to your culinary repertoire. This method not only ensures a tender and flavorful steak but also provides the convenience of a hands-off cooking process, leaving more time for you to enjoy the meal you've just prepared.