Cube steak, also known as minute steak, is a thinly sliced cut of beef that is perfect for a quick and easy meal. It’s a popular choice for many home cooks because it’s affordable, versatile, and can be cooked in a variety of ways. One of the best ways to cook cube steak is in the oven, where it can be cooked to perfection with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to cook cube steak in the oven, including some delicious recipes and tips to help you achieve tender and flavorful results.
Why Cook Cube Steak in the Oven?
Cooking cube steak in the oven is a great way to prepare this cut of beef for several reasons. First, it’s a low-maintenance cooking method that requires minimal effort and attention. Simply season the steak, place it in the oven, and let it cook to perfection. Second, oven cooking allows for even heat distribution, which helps to cook the steak consistently throughout. This is especially important for cube steak, which can be prone to drying out if it’s overcooked. Finally, oven cooking is a healthy way to cook cube steak, as it doesn’t require adding extra oil or fat.
Choosing the Right Cube Steak
Before we dive into the cooking methods, it’s essential to choose the right cube steak. Look for steak that is labeled as “cube steak” or “minute steak.” This type of steak is usually cut from the top round or top sirloin, and it’s been tenderized to make it more palatable. When selecting cube steak, look for the following characteristics:
- Thinly sliced: Cube steak should be sliced to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Tenderized: The steak should have been tenderized to break down the connective tissues.
- Lean: Cube steak is a lean cut of beef, so look for steak with minimal marbling.
Basic Oven Cooking Method
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s move on to the basic oven cooking method for cube steak. This method is simple and requires minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 cube steaks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the cube steak and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the steak with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
- Drizzle the olive oil over the steak, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Place the steak on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the steak in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Cooking Times and Temperatures
The cooking time and temperature for cube steak will depend on your desired level of doneness. Here’s a general guide to help you achieve the perfect doneness:
| Doneness | Internal Temperature | Cooking Time |
| — | — | — |
| Rare | 120°F – 130°F (49°C – 54°C) | 6-8 minutes |
| Medium-rare | 130°F – 135°F (54°C – 57°C) | 8-10 minutes |
| Medium | 140°F – 145°F (60°C – 63°C) | 10-12 minutes |
| Medium-well | 150°F – 155°F (66°C – 68°C) | 12-14 minutes |
| Well-done | 160°F – 170°F (71°C – 77°C) | 14-16 minutes |
Delicious Cube Steak Recipes
Now that we’ve covered the basic oven cooking method, let’s move on to some delicious cube steak recipes. These recipes are perfect for a quick and easy meal, and they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Garlic and Herb Cube Steak
Ingredients:
- 1-2 cube steaks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the cube steak and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the garlic and herb mixture all over the steak, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the steak and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the steak in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Lemon Pepper Cube Steak
Ingredients:
- 1-2 cube steaks
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Rinse the cube steak and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix together the lemon pepper, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the lemon pepper mixture all over the steak, making sure it’s evenly coated.
- Drizzle the olive oil over the steak and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the steak in the preheated oven for 8-12 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your cube steak to the next level:
- Use a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your cube steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
- Don’t overcook: Cube steak can become dry and tough if it’s overcooked. Use the cooking times and temperatures above as a guide to achieve the perfect doneness.
- Add some acidity: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of vinegar can add brightness and flavor to your cube steak.
- Try different seasonings: Cube steak is a versatile cut of beef that can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. Try using different seasoning blends, such as Italian seasoning or fajita seasoning, to add flavor to your steak.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking cube steak in the oven:
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between each steak to allow for even cooking.
- Not patting dry the steak: Patting dry the steak with paper towels helps to remove excess moisture and promotes even browning.
- Not using a meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your cube steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Conclusion
Cooking cube steak in the oven is a delicious and easy way to prepare this cut of beef. By following the basic oven cooking method and using some delicious recipes, you can achieve tender and flavorful results. Remember to choose the right cube steak, use a meat thermometer, and avoid common mistakes to ensure that your steak turns out perfectly. With these tips and recipes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a cube steak expert.
What is cube steak and how is it different from other cuts of steak?
Cube steak is a type of steak that has been tenderized by pounding or using a meat mallet to break down the fibers. This process makes the steak more tender and easier to chew. Cube steak is different from other cuts of steak because of its unique texture and the way it is prepared. Unlike other cuts of steak, cube steak is not typically cooked to a high level of doneness, as it can become tough and dry.
Cube steak is often made from tougher cuts of beef, such as top round or top sirloin, which are then tenderized to make them more palatable. The tenderization process involves pounding the meat with a meat mallet or using a tenderizer tool to break down the fibers. This process makes the steak more tender and easier to chew, and it also allows for more even cooking.
What are the benefits of cooking cube steak in the oven?
Cooking cube steak in the oven is a great way to prepare this type of steak because it allows for even cooking and helps to retain the moisture and flavor of the meat. Unlike pan-frying or grilling, oven cooking is a low-heat method that helps to prevent the steak from becoming tough and dry. Additionally, oven cooking allows for easy cleanup and minimal mess.
Another benefit of cooking cube steak in the oven is that it is a relatively hands-off process. Once the steak is seasoned and placed in the oven, it can be left to cook without constant monitoring. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress your guests with a delicious and tender steak.
How do I season cube steak for oven cooking?
Seasoning cube steak for oven cooking is a simple process that involves sprinkling both sides of the steak with your desired seasonings. Some popular seasonings for cube steak include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. You can also add other seasonings such as dried herbs, chili powder, or lemon pepper to give the steak more flavor.
When seasoning cube steak, it’s a good idea to use a light hand and not over-season the meat. You can always add more seasonings after the steak is cooked, but it’s harder to remove excess seasonings. Additionally, be sure to season both sides of the steak evenly to ensure that the flavors are distributed throughout the meat.
What is the best temperature for cooking cube steak in the oven?
The best temperature for cooking cube steak in the oven is between 350°F and 400°F. This temperature range allows for even cooking and helps to prevent the steak from becoming tough and dry. If you prefer your steak more well-done, you can cook it at a higher temperature, such as 425°F.
It’s also important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the steak is cooked to a safe internal temperature. The recommended internal temperature for cube steak is at least 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well-done. Be sure to insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the steak to get an accurate reading.
How long does it take to cook cube steak in the oven?
The cooking time for cube steak in the oven will depend on the thickness of the steak and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, cube steak should be cooked for 10-15 minutes per side for medium-rare, 15-20 minutes per side for medium, and 20-25 minutes per side for well-done.
It’s also important to flip the steak halfway through the cooking time to ensure that it is cooked evenly. You can use a spatula or tongs to flip the steak, and be sure to handle it gently to avoid damaging the meat. Additionally, be sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.
Can I cook cube steak in the oven with other ingredients?
Yes, you can cook cube steak in the oven with other ingredients to add more flavor and nutrition to the dish. Some popular ingredients to cook with cube steak include vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, as well as potatoes and other root vegetables.
When cooking cube steak with other ingredients, be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed. For example, if you are cooking the steak with vegetables, you may need to increase the cooking time to ensure that the vegetables are tender. Additionally, be sure to season the other ingredients with salt, pepper, and other seasonings to bring out their natural flavors.
How do I serve cube steak cooked in the oven?
Cube steak cooked in the oven can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preferences and the occasion. Some popular ways to serve cube steak include slicing it thinly and serving it with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables, or serving it with a salad or roasted vegetables.
You can also serve cube steak with a variety of sauces and gravies, such as a rich demiglace or a tangy BBQ sauce. Additionally, be sure to let the steak rest for a few minutes before slicing it to allow the juices to redistribute and the meat to stay tender.