The Ultimate Guide To Cooking Cubed Steak In The Oven

To ensure food safety, it’s necessary to clean and handle the cubed steak properly. Start by washing your hands thoroughly before and after handling the meat. Rinse the steak under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat it dry with paper towels, making sure to remove excess moisture. At this stage, you can also trim any excess fat if desired.

Tips for Tenderizing Cubed Steak

While cubed steak is already mechanically tenderized, there are a few additional steps you can take to further enhance its tenderness. One option is to marinate the steak in a mixture of acidic ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or buttermilk. The acid helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender cut. Alternatively, you can use a meat tenderizer or a fork to pierce both sides of the steak, further loosening the fibers and allowing for better absorption of flavors.

Cooking Variations for Cubed Steak in the Oven

Now that you’ve selected and prepared your cubed steak, it’s time to decide on the cooking method that suits your preference. Oven cooking provides a hassle-free approach that allows you to infuse flavors while achieving that perfect doneness. Here are two popular variations to explore:

Crispy Baked Cubed Steak

Preheat your oven to 400°F (some ovens may vary). Dip each piece of cubed steak in a beaten egg or buttermilk, then coat it with a seasoned breading mixture. Place the steaks on a baking sheet and drizzle or spray them with a small amount of oil for added crispiness. Bake for around 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Serve immediately and savor the delectable crunch of your crispy baked cubed steak.

Savory Baked Cubed Steak with Gravy

Preheat your oven to 350°F (some ovens may vary). In a shallow baking dish, arrange the cubed steaks side by side. Add sliced onions, minced garlic, and your favorite herbs and spices. Pour beef broth or stock over the steaks until they are halfway submerged. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 2 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. Serve the steaks with the flavorful gravy spooned over them for a hearty and comforting meal.

Checking Doneness and Avoiding Undercooked or Overcooked Steak

Achieving the perfect level of doneness is essential for the best culinary experience. To ensure that your cubed steak is cooked to your desired level, use an instant-read meat thermometer. Aim for the following internal temperatures:

• Rare: 125°F

• Medium Rare: 135°F

• Medium: 145°F

• Medium Well: 155°F

• Well Done: 160°F

Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak without touching any bone or fat. Remove the steak from the oven when it reaches a temperature slightly below your desired doneness, as it will continue to cook while resting. Cover the steak loosely with foil and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.

Recipe: Juicy Baked Cubed Steak with Mushroom Gravy

Now that you have learned about the food science, selection, cleaning, preparation, and cooking variations, it’s time to try your hand at a delicious recipe that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Follow this flavorful recipe and enjoy a juicy baked cubed steak with mushroom gravy:

Ingredients:

• 4 pieces of cubed steak (approximately 1/2 to 3/4-inch thick)

• 1 cup of all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon of onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon of paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil

• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 2 cups of beef broth or stock

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.

3. Dip each piece of cubed steak into the flour mixture, making sure to coat both sides thoroughly.

4. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the cubed steaks on both sides until golden brown, then remove them from the skillet and place them in a baking dish.

5. In the same skillet, add sliced mushrooms and onions. Sauté until they are soft and slightly browned.

6. Pour beef broth or stock into the skillet, scraping the bottom to incorporate any browned bits.

7. Pour the mushroom and onion mixture over the cubed steaks in the baking dish.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for approximately 2 hours or until the steaks are tender.

9. Remove from the oven and allow the steaks to rest for a few minutes before serving.

10. Serve the cubed steaks with the mushroom gravy spooned over them, alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy!

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have made it through this comprehensive guide on cooking cubed steak in the oven. Armed with the knowledge of food science, culinary tips, and an irresistible recipe, you are well-prepared to impress your family and friends with a perfectly cooked and flavorful cubed steak meal. Explore different variations, experiment with flavors, and most importantly, have fun in the kitchen as you continue to develop your culinary expertise. Happy cooking!

Sources

FAQS On Cubed Steak Oven Recipe

What Is Cubed Steak?

Cubed steak is a cut of beef that has been tenderized and pounded with a meat mallet or a "cubing machine." It is called cubed steak because it has a pattern of cube-shaped indentations on its surface.

How Do I Prepare Cubed Steak For The Oven?

Start by seasoning the cubed steak generously with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings of your choice. Then, coat the cubed steak in a mixture of flour and seasonings and place it in a baking dish. Add any vegetables or potatoes that you want to roast alongside the cubed steak.

What Temperature Should I Set My Oven To When Cooking Cubed Steak?

Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and cook the cubed steak for 25-30 minutes, or until it is fully cooked and tender.

How Do I Know When The Cubed Steak Is Done Cooking?

Insert a meat thermometer into the center of the cubed steak to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking beef to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.

What Can I Serve With Cubed Steak Cooked In The Oven?

Cubed steak cooked in the oven pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a green salad. You can also make a simple gravy by whisking together pan drippings, flour, and beef broth.