Cube Steak Smothered Onion has been a beloved dish in my family for generations, a true taste of home that always brings back warm memories. I can still picture my grandmother in her kitchen, the aroma of onions caramelizing filling the air as she prepared her famous smothered cube steak with onions. That rich, savory gravy clinging to tender beef was pure comfort. Now, I’ve perfected my own version of this easy ground turkey dinner, ensuring every bite is as juicy and flavorful as hers. It’s the ultimate homestyle meal, perfect for any night of the week. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Cube Steak Smothered Onion
This recipe for Cube Steak Smothered Onion isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Here’s why I know you’ll absolutely adore it:
- It’s incredibly flavorful, with tender cube steak enveloped in a rich, savory onion gravy that’s pure comfort food.
- This is an easy cube steak and onion recipe, coming together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The ingredients are budget-friendly, proving that delicious meals don’t have to break the bank.
- It’s a family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will approve of, especially when served with classic sides like mashed potatoes.
- You’ll appreciate how simple it is to achieve perfectly tender beef, even with an inexpensive cut like cube steak.
- This easy cube steak and onion recipe brings homestyle comfort right to your dinner table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients for Cube Steak Smothered Onion
To make this delicious cube steak in onion gravy recipe, you’ll need just a few simple, everyday ingredients. I always make sure I have these on hand for a quick and comforting meal:
- 4 cube steaks – I look for ones that are about 1/2 inch thick; they cook up perfectly tender.
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced – These are the star of the show, creating that rich, sweet base for our gravy.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a wonderful aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dredging) – This helps to create a beautiful crust on the steak and thickens our luscious gravy.
- 2 cups beef broth or bouillon mix – I prefer low-sodium beef broth so I can control the seasoning myself.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – This secret ingredient adds a fantastic umami punch to the gravy.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground is always best for that extra kick.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter – For searing the steaks and caramelizing those amazing onions.
How to Make Cube Steak Smothered Onion
Making this incredible Cube Steak Smothered Onion is simpler than you might think! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready in no time. I’ve found that patience with the onions truly pays off for the best flavor.
- Step 1: First, prepare your cube steaks. Pat them very dry with paper towels; this helps them get a beautiful sear. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper, then dredge each steak in flour, shaking off any excess. This initial flour coating is key for a crispy exterior and helps thicken our gravy.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil or butter in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the dredged cube steaks, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Sear them for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re golden brown and crusty. This step is crucial for developing deep flavor. Remove the seared steaks and set them aside on a plate.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium and add your sliced yellow onions to the same skillet. Cook them for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are beautifully softened and golden brown. Don’t rush this part; perfectly caramelized onions are the foundation of a delicious gravy. In the last minute of cooking, stir in the minced garlic, letting its aroma fill your kitchen.
- Step 4: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the cooked onions and stir well, ensuring all the onions are coated. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a roux for your gravy.
- Step 5: Slowly pour in the 2 cups of beef broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Stir in the 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the gravy to thicken as it cooks.
- Step 6: Return the seared cube steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the rich onion gravy. Make sure they are mostly submerged. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the Cube Steak Smothered Onion simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the steaks are incredibly tender. This slow simmer is how to cook cube steak with onions to perfection, ensuring every bite is melt-in-your-mouth soft.
- Step 7: Uncover the skillet and, if the gravy isn’t as thick as you like, increase the heat slightly and simmer for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally. This step ensures you have a thick, luscious sauce for your delicious smothered cube steak.
- Step 8: Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve your homestyle cube steak with onions immediately, spooning plenty of that amazing onion gravy over each portion. Enjoy this comforting classic!
Pro Tips for the Best Cube Steak Smothered Onion
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate this Cube Steak Smothered Onion recipe from good to absolutely amazing. These pro tips will help you achieve restaurant-quality results right in your own kitchen:
- Always pat your cube steaks very dry before dredging. This creates a better crust and prevents steaming.
- Don’t rush the onion caramelization process. Slow and steady cooking develops deep, complex flavors for your gravy.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heating. Cast iron is my favorite for consistent results.
- Let the gravy simmer gently with the steaks. This low and slow method is key to incredibly tender beef.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the very end. Beef broths can vary widely in sodium content.
What’s the secret to perfect tender cube steak with onions?
The real secret to achieving tender cube steak with onions lies in the simmering process. After searing, letting the steaks braise in the rich onion gravy for 20-25 minutes on low heat breaks down the connective tissues, resulting in incredibly soft and juicy beef. My grandmother always said, “Low and slow, that’s how the flavor grows!”
Can I make Smothered Cube Steak with Onions ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook the entire Smothered Cube Steak with Onions recipe, cool it completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually meld and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Cube Steak with Onion Gravy?
To ensure your Cube Steak with Onion Gravy turns out perfectly, avoid overcooking the initial sear (just a few minutes per side is enough) and don’t rush the onion cooking. Also, make sure to whisk continuously when adding the broth to the flour-coated onions to prevent lumpy gravy. These small steps make all the difference.
Best Ways to Serve Cube Steak Smothered Onion
Once you’ve mastered this delicious Cube Steak Smothered Onion, you’ll want to pair it with sides that truly complement its rich, savory flavors. I find that simple, comforting accompaniments work best to soak up all that incredible onion gravy. Here are my top suggestions for a complete and satisfying meal:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: This is my go-to pairing! The fluffy potatoes are perfect for absorbing every last drop of the luscious gravy, making each bite heavenly. It’s the quintessential side for a homestyle cube steak with onions.
- Fluffy White Rice or Egg Noodles: For another excellent gravy sponge, serve your Cube Steak Smothered Onion over a bed of steamed white rice or tender egg noodles. They provide a neutral base that lets the beef and gravy shine.
- Steamed Green Beans or Asparagus: To add a touch of freshness and balance the richness, I often include a simple green vegetable. Lightly steamed green beans or asparagus, perhaps with a squeeze of lemon, offer a lovely contrast.
Nutrition Facts for Cube Steak Smothered Onion
I know many of you, like me, are curious about the nutritional breakdown of your favorite dishes. Here’s an estimate for one serving of this delicious Cube Steak Smothered Onion, based on the ingredients used in my recipe:
- Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy
- Calories: 375
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Cholesterol: 95mg
Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific brands, ingredient substitutions, and portion sizes used in your own kitchen. This Cube Steak Smothered Onion recipe truly offers a satisfying and hearty meal.
How to Store and Reheat Smothered Cube Steak with Onions
One of the best things about this Cube Steak Smothered Onion is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. Proper storage ensures your delicious simple cube steak and gravy stays fresh and flavorful. I always make extra because it’s just as good the next day!
First, allow the cooked Smothered Cube Steak with Onions to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the steaks and all the gravy into an airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
To reheat, I prefer gently warming it on the stovetop over medium-low heat until heated through, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened too much. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally, until hot. This ensures your Cube Steak Smothered Onion is just as tender and delicious the second time around.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cube Steak Smothered Onion
What exactly is smothered cube steak?
Smothered cube steak is a classic Southern comfort food where tenderized beef (cube steak) is seared and then simmered in a rich, savory gravy, often made with onions. The “smothered” part refers to the meat being completely covered and cooked in the gravy, allowing it to become incredibly tender and flavorful. It’s truly a homestyle dish that brings warmth to any dinner table, and this Cube Steak Smothered Onion recipe is a prime example.
Why is my cube steak tough, and how can I make it more tender?
Cube steak can sometimes be tough if not cooked properly, as it’s typically cut from tougher parts of the cow. The key to making it tender, especially in a Cube Steak Smothered Onion recipe, is the “smothering” process. Searing it quickly to develop color, then simmering it low and slow in a flavorful liquid like our onion gravy, breaks down the connective tissues. This method ensures you get melt-in-your-mouth tender smothered cube steak with onions every time.
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
While this recipe is specifically designed for Cube Steak Smothered Onion, you could technically adapt it for other thin cuts of beef, like round steak or even pork chops. However, I highly recommend sticking to cube steak for the best results, as its pre-tenderized nature and quick cooking time are ideal for achieving that classic tender texture in the onion gravy. If you do use another cut, you might need to adjust the simmering time.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Cube Steak Smothered Onion?
The best side dishes for Cube Steak Smothered Onion are those that can soak up all that delicious gravy! My personal favorites include creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy white rice, or wide egg noodles. A simple green vegetable like steamed green beans or asparagus also makes a wonderful addition, providing a fresh contrast to the rich and savory smothered cube steak with onions. It’s a complete, satisfying meal!
Variations of Cube Steak Smothered Onion You Can Try
While my classic Cube Steak Smothered Onion recipe is a family favorite, there are many ways to adapt it to your taste or dietary needs. I love experimenting in the kitchen, and these variations keep dinner exciting:
- Slow Cooker Version: For an effortless meal, try making slow cooker cube steak with onions. After searing the steaks and sautéing the onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker with the broth and Worcestershire. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the beef is incredibly tender. This is perfect for busy days!
- Mushroom Lover’s Twist: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet when you’re cooking the onions. They’ll absorb the rich flavors and add an earthy depth to your smothered cube steak with onions.
- Spicy Kick: For those who like a little heat, sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic, or add a dash of hot sauce to the gravy. It gives the classic cube steak with onion gravy a delightful zing.
- Creamy Gravy: Stir in 1/4 cup of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the very end of cooking. This creates an even richer, more luxurious gravy that perfectly complements the tender cube steak smothered onion.
Amazing Cube Steak Smothered Onion: 1 Secret!
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
This recipe for cube steak smothered with onion gravy is a comforting, old-school meal that’s rich, savory, and ready in under an hour. It’s perfect for an easy dinner, featuring tender cube steak simmered in a golden onion gravy with deep, satisfying flavor. Serve this delicious smothered cube steak with mashed potatoes, rice, or noodles for a hearty, filling plate. Whether you’re looking for quick dinner ideas, easy beef recipes, or classic comfort food, this cube steak and onion recipe delivers every time.
Ingredients
- 4 cube steaks
- 2 large yellow onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dredging)
- 2 cups beef broth or bouillon mix
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
Instructions
- Pat cube steaks dry, season with salt and pepper, and dredge in flour. Shake off excess flour for this cube steak in onion gravy recipe.
- Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear cube steaks in batches for 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside the seared cube steak with onions.
- Add sliced onions to the same skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes until golden brown. Add minced garlic in the last minute to the skillet cube steak and onions.
- Sprinkle flour over onions and stir well. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove raw taste for the onion gravy for cube steak.
- Slowly add beef broth while stirring, then add Worcestershire sauce. Simmer to thicken the gravy.
- Return the seared cube steaks to the skillet, cover, and simmer on low for 20–25 minutes for tender cube steak with onions.
- Uncover and simmer a few more minutes if the gravy needs thickening. This ensures delicious smothered cube steak.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving your homestyle cube steak with onions.
Notes
- For extra richness in your smothered cube steak with onions, stir in a pat of butter at the end.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version of this country fried cube steak with gravy, use 1:1 GF flour and certified GF beef broth.
- Let the cube steak smothered onion rest a few minutes before serving for the juiciest texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 steak with gravy
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 95mg