18 Tender Cube Steak Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Carmen Eldridge

April 3, 2025

Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Look no further! Cube steak, a thinly sliced cut of beef, is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in a variety of ways to create delicious and satisfying meals. Whether you’re short on time or looking for a comforting bowl of goodness, cube steak recipes are perfect for busy weeknights.

In this article, we’ll explore 18 tender and flavorful cube steak recipes that will elevate your mealtime routine. From classic Southern chicken fried cube steak to spicy Cajun skillet dishes and creamy mushroom sauces, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a beef lover or just looking to mix things up, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.

Classic Southern Chicken Fried Cube Steak

Classic Southern Chicken Fried Cube Steak
Get ready to savor a finger-lickin’ good Southern classic! This mouthwatering cube steak is coated in a crispy, golden-brown crust and served with creamy mashed potatoes and tangy gravy.

Ingredients:
• 1 lb beef cube steak
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup buttermilk
• Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip each cube steak piece into the buttermilk, coating completely, then roll in the flour mixture to coat.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry coated cube steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Serve with mashed potatoes and homemade gravy (optional).

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Garlic Butter Cube Steak with Mushrooms

Garlic Butter Cube Steak with Mushrooms
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter and sautéed mushrooms with the tender juiciness of cube steak, making for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this mouthwatering dish in no time.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cube steak
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Season cube steak with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add cube steak; cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: approximately 15-20 minutes

Slow Cooker Cube Steak and Gravy

Slow Cooker Cube Steak and Gravy
This classic comfort food recipe is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a busy day. With minimal prep time and no fuss, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dinner ready to serve.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Place the cube steak in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, combine sliced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Pour the mixture over the cube steak.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Smothered Cube Steak with Onions

Smothered Cube Steak with Onions
This classic recipe combines tender cube steak with caramelized onions and a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Season the cube steak with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cube steak and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter, onion, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cube steak to the skillet and spoon some of the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the steak is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes.

Grilled Cube Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

Grilled Cube Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful combination of grilled cube steak and tangy chimichurri sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1.5 lbs flank steak, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the cube steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Remove the steak from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the steak cubes for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, combine all chimichurri sauce ingredients (except red pepper flakes) in a bowl. Whisk until well combined.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Serve: Serve grilled cube steak with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy!

Easy Cube Steak Parmesan

Easy Cube Steak Parmesan
A classic Italian-American dish that’s quick, easy, and satisfying! This recipe is a great way to enjoy cube steak with a crispy breading and melted mozzarella cheese.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each cube steak piece into the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten egg, and finally coat with breadcrumbs.
4. Place the breaded cube steak pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Top each piece with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese.
7. Return to oven and bake an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Spicy Cajun Cube Steak Skillet

Spicy Cajun Cube Steak Skillet
Spicy Cajun Cube Steak Skillet: A flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cube steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cube steak and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
6. Add the diced bell peppers and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and let cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the cube steak is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes

Baked Cube Steak with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Baked Cube Steak with Creamy Mushroom Sauce
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this hearty, comforting dish that’s sure to please. Cube steak is tenderized by slow cooking and served with a creamy mushroom sauce that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients:

– 1-2 cube steaks (depending on size), about 1 pound total
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season cube steak with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear cube steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer to a baking dish.
4. In the same skillet, cook onion and garlic until softened. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Pour heavy cream into the skillet, whisking to combine with mushroom mixture. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve cube steak with creamy mushroom sauce spooned over top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes

Marinated Cube Steak Fajitas

Marinated Cube Steak Fajitas
A flavorful twist on traditional fajitas, these marinated cube steak fajitas are a quick and delicious meal option.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak (such as flank steak or skirt steak)
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced onions, bell peppers, avocado, sour cream, shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine lime juice, garlic, olive oil, oregano, and cumin.
2. Add the cube steak to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Slice the cooked steak into thin strips and serve with tortillas and desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Air Fryer Cube Steak Bites

Air Fryer Cube Steak Bites
Get ready for a flavorful and satisfying snack with these bite-sized Air Fryer cube steak bites! Tender, juicy, and packed with beefy goodness, these cubes are perfect for game-day gatherings or a quick pick-me-up.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak (cut into 1-inch cubes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, chili powder)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cube steak cubes with olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Load the Air Fryer basket in a single layer without overcrowding.
4. Cook for 5-6 minutes or until browned on all sides and cooked to your liking.
5. Remove from the Air Fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes

Cheesy Cube Steak Casserole

Cheesy Cube Steak Casserole
A comforting casserole filled with tender cube steak, creamy cheese sauce, and crunchy crackers is the perfect solution for a cozy dinner. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup crushed crackers (e.g., Ritz or Club)
– 1 tablespoon butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Brown cube steak in a skillet over medium-high heat; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cream of mushroom soup, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked cube steak, sauce mixture, and shredded cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with crushed crackers and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Asian-Inspired Cube Steak Stir-Fry

Asian-Inspired Cube Steak Stir-Fry
A flavorful and savory stir-fry that combines the richness of cube steak with the bold flavors of Asia.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers; cook until tender, about 4 minutes.
4. Add cube steak; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and honey. Pour over cube steak; stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds (if desired).

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

BBQ Glazed Cube Steak Sandwiches

BBQ Glazed Cube Steak Sandwiches
Elevate your sandwich game with this sweet and tangy BBQ glazed cube steak recipe. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these juicy sandwiches are sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cube steak (about 12-16 pieces)
– 1/4 cup BBQ glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, pickles, and any other desired toppings

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ glaze, brown sugar, cumin, and smoked paprika.
3. Brush both sides of the cube steak pieces with the glaze mixture.
4. Grill cube steaks for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing a grilled cube steak piece onto each bun, followed by desired toppings.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Herb-Rubbed Cube Steak with Roasted Potatoes

Herb-Rubbed Cube Steak with Roasted Potatoes
A classic comfort food combination, this recipe pairs tender cube steak with flavorful roasted potatoes and a hint of herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cube steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together thyme, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture evenly onto both sides of the cube steak.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the cube steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Meanwhile, toss potato cubes with chicken broth and season with salt and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Serve the herb-crusted cube steak with roasted potatoes.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

One-Pan Cube Steak and Veggies

One-Pan Cube Steak and Veggies
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this simple and satisfying recipe that cooks cube steak and vegetables to perfection in just one pan.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the cube steak and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the bell peppers and mushrooms to the pan and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Return the cube steak to the pan and sprinkle with paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cube steak is cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Peppercorn Crusted Cube Steak

Peppercorn Crusted Cube Steak
Elevate your steak game with this flavorful recipe that combines tender cube steak with a rich peppercorn crust.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb cube steak
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tsp kosher salt
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together ground peppercorns and kosher salt.
3. Dredge cube steak in flour, shaking off excess.
4. Dip floured steak in peppercorn mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 2 minutes per side.
6. Transfer skillet to preheated oven and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Sweet and Tangy Cube Steak Tacos

Sweet and Tangy Cube Steak Tacos
Transform cube steak into a flavorful taco filling with a hint of sweetness and tanginess.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: sliced radishes, cilantro, sour cream

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
2. Add the cube steak to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the steak from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
6. Slice the grilled steak into thin strips.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble tacos with sliced steak, diced onion, and minced garlic.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Bacon-Wrapped Cube Steak Bites

Bacon-Wrapped Cube Steak Bites
Elevate your snack game with these crispy bacon-wrapped cube steak bites, perfect for parties or as a quick appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound cube steak (lean beef cut into small cubes)
– 6 slices of bacon
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, toss cube steak with olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Wrap each cube steak piece with a slice of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until bacon is crispy and cube steak is cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Summary

Are you looking for some delicious and easy cube steak recipes to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 18 tender and flavorful cube steak recipes, including classic Southern chicken fried cube steak, garlic butter cube steak with mushrooms, slow cooker cube steak and gravy, and many more. From smothered cube steak with onions to grilled cube steak with chimichurri sauce, there’s something for every taste and occasion. Whether you’re a fan of comfort food or international flavors, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.

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