Cubed steak may not win beauty contests, but this dish more than makes up for it with flavor and simplicity. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe uses just a handful of pantry staples to create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth steak smothered in a rich, savory gravy. Thanks to the magic of Lipton onion soup mix and a cast-iron skillet, these steaks become a hearty, satisfying meal that pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients for Tender and Juicy Cubed Steaks
- 1 – 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (125-190 grams)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large cubed steaks (approximately 1 1/2 pounds or 680 grams)
- 1 package Lipton Beefy Onion Soup Mix (2 oz or 57 grams)
- Olive oil, for frying
- 2 cups water (475 milliliters)
How to Make Tender and Juicy Cubed Steaks
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a large skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium to medium-high heat.
Prepare the flour mixture
In a pie plate or shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour with salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.
Dredge the steaks
Coat each cubed steak thoroughly in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
Brown the steaks
Place the floured steaks in the hot skillet and cook for about 5 minutes on each side, turning as needed to achieve a golden-brown crust.
Transfer to a casserole dish
Once browned, transfer the steaks to a deep casserole dish. Drain excess oil from the skillet, leaving behind any steak and flour residue.
Prepare the gravy
In a bowl, mix the Lipton Beefy Onion Soup Mix with 2 cups (475 milliliters) of water.
Deglaze the skillet
Pour the soup mixture into the hot skillet. Turn the heat up slightly and whisk to loosen the browned bits from the bottom of the pan. If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk in a small amount of the leftover flour mixture.
Pour gravy over steaks
Pour the prepared gravy evenly over the cubed steaks in the casserole dish.
Bake the dish
Place the dish, uncovered, in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour, allowing the steaks to tenderize and the gravy to thicken.
Serve and enjoy
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve the steaks hot with their savory gravy.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe transforms humble cubed steak into a flavorful, tender dish that’s easy to prepare. The onion soup mix adds depth to the gravy, while baking ensures the steaks become fork-tender. The simplicity of the ingredients allows the rich, savory flavors to shine. Pair this meal with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
This tender and juicy cubed steak recipe is a true lifesaver for busy days when you need a quick yet satisfying dinner. With its rich gravy and melt-in-your-mouth texture, it’s bound to become a favorite in your weekly meal rotation. Simple ingredients, easy preparation, and incredible flavor make this dish a go-to comfort food classic. Enjoy every bite!
