Keto Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe: A Comfort Food Classic

If you're looking for a hearty, delicious, and economical meal that fits into a keto or low-carb lifestyle, cube steak with mushroom gravy is an excellent choice. This dish transforms a humble cut of meat into a tender and flavorful dinner that the whole family will enjoy. This article will explore various ways to prepare this classic dish, including skillet, slow cooker, and Instant Pot methods, along with tips for achieving the perfect gravy.

What is Cube Steak?

Cube steak is a cut of beef, typically top round or top sirloin, that has been tenderized by pounding with a meat tenderizer. This process creates cube-shaped indentations on the surface of the meat, hence the name. Cube steak is a lean cut and benefits from methods that enhance tenderness and add flavor. It is sometimes labeled as “minute steak” or “fast fry steak”.

Why Cube Steak is a Great Choice

• Economical: Cube steak is generally less expensive than other steak cuts, making it a budget-friendly option.
• Quick Cooking: When pan-fried, cube steak cooks quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Cube steak can be prepared in various ways, including pan-frying, slow cooking, and pressure cooking.
• Flavorful: Cube steak readily absorbs flavors from marinades, sauces, and gravies.

Ingredients for Keto Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy

The basic ingredients for this recipe include:

• Cube steak: The star of the dish.
• Mushrooms: Baby Bella mushrooms add a savory and earthy flavor.
• Onion: Provides a base for the gravy and adds sweetness.
• Beef broth: Adds depth of flavor to the gravy. Beef stock or beef bouillon cubes can be used as substitutes. Even a packet of onion soup in water would work!
• Garlic: Enhances the savory flavor of the dish.
• Butter or Olive Oil: Used for searing the steak and sautéing the vegetables. Ghee or vegan butter can be used as alternatives.
• Thickening agent: Tapioca flour or arrowroot starch are great gluten-free options for thickening the gravy.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika enhance the flavor of the steak and gravy.
• Optional Ingredients: Dijon mustard, coconut aminos, cream cheese, heavy cream, cream of mushroom soup (low carb).

Preparing Cube Steak for Maximum Tenderness

Tenderizing the Steak

Although cube steak has already been mechanically tenderized, further tenderizing it at home can significantly improve the texture. Place the cube steaks between layers of saran wrap and use a meat tenderizer to pound them to about 1/2 inch thickness. This helps break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender final product.

Seasoning the Steak

Generously season the cube steaks with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. This simple seasoning blend enhances the natural flavor of the beef and creates a delicious crust when seared.

Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers

Keto Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions

Here are detailed instructions for making keto cube steak with mushroom gravy using different cooking methods:

Pan-Fried Keto Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy

This method is ideal for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds cube steak
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter or ghee, divided
• 1 sliced onion
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tapioca flour or arrowroot starch (mixed with 3 tablespoons water)
• Optional: Dijon mustard, coconut aminos

Instructions:

1. Season the Steak: Season the cube steaks generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Steak: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or ghee in a large skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high heat. Add the cube steaks and cook for about 4 minutes per side, until well browned. Remove the steaks from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining butter to the pan and melt. Add the sliced onions and sauté over medium heat, stirring often, until softened and slightly browned. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they have browned slightly. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
4. Make the Gravy: Stir in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it reduce for about 4 minutes. In a separate bowl, combine the tapioca flour or arrowroot starch with water to create a slurry. Pour the slurry into the pan and stir continuously until the gravy thickens.
5. Combine and Serve: Add the seared steaks back to the pan and toss to coat with the gravy. Serve immediately over mashed cauliflower, buttered zoodles, or your favorite low-carb side dish.

Slow Cooker Keto Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy

This method is perfect for a hands-off approach, allowing the steak to become incredibly tender.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds cube steak
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 sliced onion
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 2 cups beef broth
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (low carb)
• Optional: garlic powder, cream cheese, heavy cream

Instructions:

1. Sear the Steak: Season the cube steaks with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for about 2 minutes per side, until lightly browned.
2. Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Place the seared steaks in the bottom of a slow cooker. Add the sliced onions and mushrooms over the steaks.
3. Prepare the Gravy: In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth and cream of mushroom soup. If desired, add garlic powder, cream cheese, and heavy cream for extra flavor and richness. Pour the gravy mixture over the steaks and vegetables in the slow cooker.
4. Cook: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the steaks are very tender.
5. Serve: Serve the tender cube steak and mushroom gravy over mashed cauliflower or your favorite low-carb side dish.

Instant Pot Keto Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy

This method combines speed and tenderness, making it a great option for a quick yet flavorful meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds cube steak
• ½ cup flour (optional, or use almond flour for keto)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups beef broth
• 10.5 ounces cream of mushroom soup (low carb)
• ½ cup chopped white onion
• 8 ounces sliced baby bella mushrooms

Instructions:

1. Season and Sear the Steak: In a small bowl, combine flour (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Flour both sides of the cube steak. Set Instant Pot to sauté. Add the oil to heat it. When oil is hot, add the steaks. Brown both sides of steak.
2. Combine Ingredients: Combine the beef broth, soup, onion and mushrooms in a separate bowl. Pour over the steak.
3. Pressure Cook: Close lid and seal the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes. Then allow the pot to depressurize naturally.
4. Serve: The calories shown are based on the recipe using two pounds of cube steaks, with 1 serving being ⅓ pound with gravy.

Tips for the Perfect Keto Cube Steak with Mushroom Gravy

• Don't Overcook: Cube steak can become tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C) for medium doneness.
• Deglaze the Pan: When pan-frying, deglaze the pan with beef broth after searing the steak to capture all the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
• Thicken Gravy: If you prefer a thicker gravy, use a thickening agent like tapioca flour, arrowroot starch, or xanthan gum.
• Customize Flavors: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Add a splash of Dijon mustard, coconut aminos, or Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
• Caramelize Onions: For a richer and sweeter flavor, caramelize the onions before adding the mushrooms and beef broth.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality beef broth, mushrooms, and seasonings will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Make it Creamy: For a creamier gravy, stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end of the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Keto cube steak with mushroom gravy is delicious served with a variety of low-carb side dishes, including:

Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide

• Mashed cauliflower
• Buttered zoodles (zucchini noodles)
• Cauliflower rice
• Steamed green beans
• Roasted asparagus
• Tossed salad

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage: Store leftover cube steak in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the cube steak and gravy in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out.
• Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the steak may get tough.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Tenderizing Enough: Ensure the cube steak is properly tenderized before cooking to prevent it from being too tough.
• Overcrowding the Pan: When searing the steak, avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and prevent proper browning.
• Not Seasoning Generously: Season the steak and gravy generously to enhance the flavors.
• Burning the Garlic: Add the minced garlic towards the end of sautéing the vegetables to prevent it from burning.

Variations and Additions

• Add Wine: Add a splash of red wine to the gravy for a richer flavor.
• Use Different Mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or cremini, for a unique flavor profile.
• Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add a fresh and aromatic touch to the dish.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Information

The nutritional information for keto cube steak with mushroom gravy will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. However, this dish is generally low in carbohydrates and high in protein and healthy fats, making it a great option for those following a keto or low-carb diet.

Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto

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