Ingredients
For the Steaks
- ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 4 cube steaks (about 4 ounces each)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (⅛ stick)
For the Gravy
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (¼ stick)
- 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1-2 tablespoons sherry vinegar (to taste)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch + 1 teaspoon cool water (optional, for thickening gravy)
Instructions
- Whisk the coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.
- Dredge the steaks: Coat each cube steak evenly in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess to prevent clumping during cooking.
- Cook the steaks: Heat the vegetable oil and 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and hot. Add the coated cube steaks and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown. Remove the steaks from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Caramelize the onions: To the same pan, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the thinly sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring often, for about 10-12 minutes until the onions are softened and beginning to caramelize, developing a sweet flavor and golden color.
- Add garlic and rosemary: Stir in the minced garlic and fresh rosemary, cooking and stirring for about 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer the gravy: Pour in the beef broth and sherry vinegar, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce reduces slightly and flavors meld together. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as desired.
- Thicken the gravy (optional): If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix the cornstarch with cool water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Remove the pan from heat, whisk in the slurry, then return to heat and stir constantly until the sauce thickens and begins to simmer.
- Combine and serve: Return the cooked cube steaks to the pan and spoon the rich onion gravy over them. Warm through for a minute, then serve promptly while hot.
Notes
- Using low-sodium beef broth helps control the saltiness of the dish, letting you season to taste at the end.
- For a stronger herb flavor, try adding a sprig of fresh rosemary to the pan while simmering, removing before serving.
- Sherry vinegar adds a nice tangy brightness; if unavailable, a splash of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar can be substituted.
- Be careful not to overcook the cube steaks to maintain tenderness—monitor cooking time closely.
- The optional cornstarch slurry ensures a beautifully thickened gravy if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American