Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that’s surprisingly simple to make? Look no further! This oven-baked cubed steak recipe is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. Forget tough, chewy cubed steak – this recipe delivers incredibly tender and juicy results every time, thanks to a clever combination of marinating and slow oven cooking. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes that don't require hours in the kitchen. Get ready to enjoy a healthy meal that's both satisfying and easy on your schedule. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and easy recipes for homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs cubed steak (about 1-inch cubes)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cubed Steak
Pat the cubed steak dry with paper towels. This helps the flour adhere better and creates a nice sear. In a shallow dish, combine flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Dredge each piece of cubed steak in the flour mixture, ensuring it's evenly coated.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron is ideal) over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, sear the cubed steak on all sides until nicely browned. This step adds depth of flavor. Remove the seared steak and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Return the seared cubed steak to the skillet. Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth, stirring gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer on the stovetop.
Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the steak is fork-tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, garnish with fresh parsley (if using) and serve immediately. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Marinating: For extra tender and flavorful cubed steak, consider marinating it for at least 30 minutes (or even overnight) in a mixture of olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite herbs and spices before dredging in flour.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the cubed steak in batches to ensure proper browning. Overcrowding will lead to steaming instead of searing.
- Oven-Safe Skillet: Using an oven-safe skillet simplifies the process and prevents unnecessary dishwashing.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add a pinch of paprika, cayenne pepper, or other spices to enhance the flavor.
Variations:
- Creamy Tomato: Replace cream of mushroom soup with cream of tomato soup for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic Parmesan: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Mushroom Medley: Add a cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions for an extra layer of earthy flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This oven-baked cubed steak recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a great way to enjoy a comforting, homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy!