Easy Fried Steak Recipe: A Deliciously Simple Meal
Are you craving a juicy, flavorful fried steak but intimidated by complicated recipes? Fear not! This easy fried steak recipe delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort and time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
What You'll Need:
This recipe requires readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest cooks.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef cube steak (about 1 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil or your preferred cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Follow these easy-to-follow instructions for perfectly fried steak every time.
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
- Pat the beef cube steak dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps achieve a crispy exterior.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Press the seasonings into the meat to ensure they adhere properly.
Step 2: Dredge the Steak
- Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- Dredge each side of the seasoned steak in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Gently shake off any excess flour.
Step 3: Fry the Steak
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot enough that a drop of flour sizzles immediately.
- Carefully place the steak in the hot skillet.
- Fry for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked to your desired doneness. For medium-rare, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 130-135°F.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Once cooked, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice against the grain and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Fried Steak:
- Tenderize: If your cube steak seems tough, use a meat mallet to lightly tenderize it before seasoning.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in a soggy steak. Fry in batches if necessary.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings. Paprika, cayenne pepper, or a pinch of dried herbs can add extra flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your delicious fried steak with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, gravy, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
Variations:
- Creamy Mushroom Sauce: Elevate your fried steak with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce. Simply sauté sliced mushrooms in butter, then stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Garlic Butter: After frying, top your steak with a generous pat of garlic butter for an extra burst of flavor.
This easy fried steak recipe is your go-to guide for a satisfying and delicious meal. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you'll be enjoying a restaurant-quality meal in no time. Happy cooking!
