Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly quick to make? Then look no further! This creamy mushroom cube steak recipe is your answer. It's a delicious blend of tender cube steak, rich creamy mushroom sauce, and simple seasonings – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. This recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes achievable with simple homemade cooking techniques. It's one of those easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master, resulting in a restaurant-quality meal. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb cube steak
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup sour cream or heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Pat the cube steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the flavor significantly.
Step 2: Sear the Steak
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the cube steak for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary for even browning.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are lightly browned.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, sour cream (or heavy cream), Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. This creates the rich and flavorful sauce that complements the steak beautifully.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the seared cube steak to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the steak is cooked through and tender. The low and slow cooking ensures a wonderfully soft texture. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 145°F.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For extra tender cube steak, consider pounding it slightly before searing.
- Don't overcook the steak; it should be tender and juicy.
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Gruyere cheese over the steak during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with fresh rosemary, oregano, or sage instead of thyme.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a great example of how quick dinner ideas can be both healthy meals and incredibly flavorful. Enjoy this simple yet impressive cube steak recipe – it's sure to become a family favorite!