Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy

The combination of tender cube steak and savory mushroom gravy is a match made in comfort food heaven. This hearty dish is perfect for any time of year, offering a rich, flavorful experience that never disappoints. The cube steak, a tenderized cut of beef, is cooked to perfection and smothered in a luscious mushroom gravy, made from fresh mushrooms, beef broth, and seasonings. Together, they create a dish that is as satisfying as it is indulgent. Served alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables, this cube steak with mushroom gravy will quickly become a family favorite, bringing warmth and flavor to any meal.

Full Recipe:

4 cube steaks

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced

8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 tablespoons flour
2 cups beef broth

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the cube steaks with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove the steaks and set them aside.

In the same skillet, add sliced onions and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and become tender.
Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.

Slowly add the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Return the cube steaks to the skillet and cover them with the mushroom gravy. Let them simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until the steaks are tender and the gravy is rich.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Recipe Overview

Cube steak with mushroom gravy is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Known for its tenderized beef steaks smothered in a rich, savory mushroom gravy, this dish offers a simple yet indulgent experience. The cube steak is typically a budget-friendly cut of beef that becomes tender when cooked properly, making it an excellent choice for quick dinners without sacrificing flavor. The mushroom gravy, made from earthy mushrooms and a savory blend of broth and seasonings, brings a delicious depth to the dish, making it a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, cube steak with mushroom gravy is sure to impress.

History and Origin

Cube steak, sometimes known as minute steak, has its roots in the United States, where it became popular as a way to make tougher cuts of beef more tender. The steak gets its name from the process of tenderizing the meat using a machine that leaves small indentations in the steak, resembling cubes. This tenderizing process ensures that the cube steak remains juicy and flavorful when cooked, even though it’s often a less expensive cut of beef.

The pairing of mushrooms with beef has been a long-standing tradition in many cuisines, as the earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the richness of beef perfectly. In the case of cube steak with mushroom gravy, the dish combines these two ingredients into a rich, savory sauce that elevates the relatively simple cut of beef to something special.

Mushroom gravy itself is a staple in many cultures, from the United States to Europe, particularly in countries like Germany and France, where beef and mushrooms are commonly paired. This dish, although widely recognized in America as a comforting dinner choice, reflects the blend of practicality and indulgence found in many traditional dishes from both Europe and the U.S.

Variations and Adaptations

While the core elements of cube steak and mushroom gravy remain the same, there are several variations and adaptations that can be made depending on region, dietary preferences, or personal taste. In some regions, for example, the gravy may be enriched with cream or wine, adding richness and complexity. This cream-based gravy creates a luxurious version of the dish, perfect for a more indulgent meal.

For those looking to reduce calories or make the dish lighter, you can opt for a simple mushroom broth-based gravy, which still retains all the essential flavors but with fewer fats. Vegan or vegetarian versions of cube steak with mushroom gravy can be made by substituting the cube steak with plant-based alternatives, like portobello mushrooms, tempeh, or even tofu, and using a vegetable broth instead of beef.

Spices and seasonings can also vary widely depending on the desired flavor profile. Some cooks prefer to add a touch of thyme, rosemary, or even a little garlic powder to the gravy to introduce herbal or aromatic notes. Others may choose to stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for a deeper umami flavor, or a dash of Dijon mustard for a slight tang.

The dish can also be adapted to fit various culinary traditions. For instance, in certain Southern states in the U.S., it’s not uncommon to serve cube steak with mushroom gravy over creamy mashed potatoes or crispy fried chicken. In contrast, some Midwest recipes might feature it alongside buttered corn or fresh biscuits.

Nutritional Information

Cube steak with mushroom gravy is a hearty and satisfying dish, but like many comfort foods, it does come with a considerable nutritional profile. A standard serving of cube steak (about 4 ounces) contains approximately 220-250 calories, depending on the exact cut and fat content. The beef provides a rich source of protein, around 22-25 grams per serving, along with essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins like niacin and vitamin B12. These nutrients play vital roles in energy production, immune function, and the formation of red blood cells.

The mushroom gravy adds more than just flavor—it also offers some nutritional benefits. Mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants, particularly selenium, which helps to support immune health. Additionally, mushrooms provide fiber, potassium, and vitamin D, particularly when grown in sunlight or UV light, making them an excellent food choice for overall health.

When combined, cube steak and mushroom gravy create a balanced dish, providing ample protein from the beef and beneficial micronutrients from the mushrooms. However, depending on the amount of butter or cream used in the gravy, this dish can be high in saturated fats. To make it lighter, consider using low-fat milk or vegetable-based oils to reduce the fat content while maintaining the dish’s creamy texture.

For those watching their sodium intake, it’s a good idea to use low-sodium broth or to limit the amount of salt added to the dish. Adjusting seasonings and experimenting with fresh herbs can also help reduce the need for additional salt.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Cube steak with mushroom gravy is a versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it easy to create a complete meal. For a traditional and satisfying meal, serve the dish with mashed potatoes to soak up all that delicious gravy. Creamy mashed potatoes, whether made with butter and cream or a lighter alternative, complement the rich flavors of the beef and mushrooms perfectly.

Another classic pairing is rice—steamed white rice, brown rice, or even a flavored rice like pilaf can be an excellent base for the beef and gravy. For a lighter option, roasted or steamed vegetables such as green beans, carrots, or broccoli provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.

If you’re in the mood for a more indulgent meal, consider serving cube steak with mushroom gravy alongside crispy fried potatoes or even a warm, freshly baked biscuit. The crispy, buttery biscuits are perfect for mopping up the savory gravy.

For drinks, pair the dish with a robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, which can stand up to the rich, savory flavors of the beef. A cold, crisp beer, like a pale ale or lager, can also be a refreshing choice, especially if you’re looking for a more casual dining experience.

Tips and Tricks for Success

To ensure your cube steak with mushroom gravy turns out perfectly, here are a few tips and tricks from the experts:

Tenderize the Steak Properly: Cube steaks are pre-tenderized, but if you find them too tough, you can tenderize them further by gently pounding them with a meat mallet. This will help the meat stay juicy and tender while cooking.
Avoid Overcooking the Meat: Cube steaks cook quickly, so be careful not to overdo it. Overcooking can result in dry and tough beef. Aim for a nice golden-brown sear on both sides and let the steak simmer in the gravy for just enough time to absorb all the flavors.
Use Fresh Mushrooms: While canned mushrooms can be convenient, fresh mushrooms deliver a better texture and flavor. Opt for button mushrooms or cremini for a mild, earthy taste, or try a more exotic variety like shiitake for a deeper umami flavor.

Make the Gravy in Stages: To prevent the gravy from becoming too thick or lumpy, add the broth gradually while stirring constantly. If the gravy gets too thick, simply add a little more broth or water to reach the desired consistency.
Season to Taste: Always taste your gravy before serving. The balance of salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce is key to creating a flavorful sauce that complements the beef. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings until it’s just right.

Potential Health Benefits

While cube steak with mushroom gravy is a comfort food favorite, it also offers some health benefits thanks to its ingredients. The lean protein from the beef helps build muscle and supports overall body function. Additionally, mushrooms provide a rich source of antioxidants, which play a role in protecting the body from oxidative stress.

Mushrooms are also known to support immune health, and some varieties even have the potential to boost your vitamin D intake, particularly in the winter months when sun exposure is limited. Furthermore, the dish provides essential minerals like iron and zinc, which are crucial for healthy blood circulation and immune function.

If you opt for healthier variations, such as using low-fat milk or skipping the heavy cream in the gravy, you can significantly reduce the amount of saturated fats in the dish. Choosing leaner cuts of beef or plant-based alternatives can make this dish even more nutritious.

Conclusion

Cube steak with mushroom gravy is the ultimate comfort food, offering a balance of tender beef and savory, creamy mushroom gravy. With its rich flavor, versatility in serving, and potential health benefits, this dish is one that will surely become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy dinner at home or a special gathering with friends and family, cube steak with mushroom gravy is a timeless dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Try it today and enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors that make this dish truly special.