Are you looking for a cheap, quick, and delicious meal that will satisfy your taste buds? Look no further than the air fryer cube steak! This easy-to-make dish will make you feel like a culinary pro without breaking the bank or taking up too much time in the kitchen. But what exactly is an air fryer, let alone a cube steak? In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the magic of both and show you how to create a mouth-watering meal that will leave your family and friends begging for more.
Introduction To Air Fryer Cube Steak.
Air Fryer Cube Steak is an inexpensive but delicious meal idea that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. This recipe uses a Ninja Foodi or Cosori air fryer that gives the meat a bit of crispness on the edges while keeping the inside tender. If you’re looking for a low-fat meal packed with protein, this recipe is perfect for you. This dish features marinated cube steak that is tenderized even more, making it juicy and flavorful. The steak is served over rice or with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
The recipe is easy to follow, and you don’t need to add anything to the outside of the steak. All you need are some seasonings or your favorite sauce to marinate the meat. The marination process adds moisture and tons of flavor, making the meat fork-tender once done. The marinade used in this recipe includes teriyaki sauce, which is perfect for adding incredible flavor to the dish.
Cube steak is typically made from top round or top sirloin beef, and the name comes from the deep indentations in the meat made with a meat tenderizer. If you’re in the Southern states, you might hear it called “chicken-fried steak.” While it is possible to tenderize the steak yourself with a mallet, you can usually find tenderized cube steak at the grocery store.
In summary, Air Fryer Cube Steak is a quick, easy, and cheap meal idea that your entire family will love. The marinade used in this recipe makes the meat tender and juicy, and the air fryer crisps up the meat’s edges, making it crispy and delicious. So go ahead and try this recipe out for yourself and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal! [1]
What Is Cube Steak?
Cube steak is an inexpensive and flavorful cut of beef that has already been tenderized. It is cut from the top or bottom round near the rump of the cow, which can be tough. However, because it is flattened and pre-tenderized, it becomes easy to cook, similar to a chicken cutlet. Cube steak is a great option for those who are looking for a cheap and delicious meal idea that can be prepared quickly.
Cooking cube steaks in an air fryer is a perfect way to enjoy them. The air fryer is incredibly efficient and cooks the steak in just a matter of minutes, leaving it perfectly crispy and juicy. The air fryer method requires minimal oil, which makes the dish healthier than other cooking methods. Before cooking it, season the steak with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or any other desired seasonings before cooking it. Once seasoned, the steak pieces should be placed in the air fryer basket, ensuring they do not overlap. After setting the temperature of the air fryer to 400F for 8 minutes, halfway through the cooking process, flip the steak to ensure even browning on both sides.
In conclusion, cube steak is a versatile and delicious cut of beef that can be an ideal meal solution for many people. Cooking the steak in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to enjoy this dish. Additionally, air frying keeps the meal healthy, and the seasoning options for the dish are limitless, allowing one to explore diverse flavor profiles. [2]
Benefits Of Using Air Fryer For Cooking Cube Steak:
Air fryer cube steak is a delicious and easy meal that can be made in just minutes. Here are some benefits of using an air fryer for cooking cube steak:
Firstly, using an air fryer for cube steak is a healthier option than traditional deep frying or pan frying. Very little oil is needed to get a crispy exterior with the air fryer.
Secondly, cooking cube steak in the air fryer saves time. It takes just a few minutes to cook, making it a quick and easy meal idea for busy weeknights.
Thirdly, the air fryer maintains a consistent temperature, which means your cube steak will cook evenly and come out perfectly every time.
Additionally, the air fryer is easy to clean. There are no pots or pans to scrub; just wipe down the basket with a damp cloth or place it in the dishwasher.
Another benefit is the versatility of the air fryer. It can be used to cook a variety of other foods, such as chicken, vegetables, and even desserts.
Lastly, using an air fryer for cube steak is a cost-effective option. Cube steak is an inexpensive cut of meat, and cooking it in the air fryer means you don’t have to spend money on expensive marinades or sauces.
In conclusion, cooking cube steak in the air fryer is a great option for those looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal idea. It’s also easy to use, clean, and versatile enough to use for other meals. Give it a try and see how your taste buds love it! [3]
How To Freeze And Thaw Cube Steak?
Cube steak is a cheap and delicious cut of beef that is perfect for anyone looking for a quick and easy meal idea. However, since most people may not consume all the cube steak they buy at once, it may be necessary to freeze it properly to preserve its quality.
To start, wrap each piece of cube steak several times in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn and protect the meat from the cold air in the freezer. Then place each wrapped steak in a re-sealable freezer bag. Be sure to label the bags with the date of freezing to keep track of how long they have been stored in the freezer.
When it’s time to thaw the cube steak, remove the bag(s) of steak from the freezer and place them in the refrigerator overnight. It’s important to thaw the meat slowly in the refrigerator to preserve its tenderness and texture. Avoid thawing cube steak at room temperature or in warm water, as this can cause bacteria to grow on the meat.
Once the cube steak is fully thawed, it’s ready to be cooked. Try using an air fryer for a quick and easy meal that tastes delicious. Before cooking, season the cube steak with your preferred seasonings and lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or coat it with vegetable or olive oil. Place the steak in the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 400F. Cook for around 8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature of the meat reaches at least 145F.
By following these tips, anyone can freeze and thaw cube steak properly to preserve its flavor and texture and enjoy a quick and easy meal whenever they want.
Ingredients For Air Fryer Cube Steak.
Air Fryer Cube Steak is an easy and quick meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. To make this delicious dish, you will need some basic ingredients that you can find in your pantry or fridge.
First, gather three pieces of fresh or thawed cube steak. Cube steak is an inexpensive cut of beef that has already been tenderized, making it easy to cook. Then, you will need some seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can use whatever seasonings you prefer, but these basic ones work well.
You will need some non-stick cooking spray or vegetable or olive oil to cook the cube steak in the air fryer. This will ensure that the meat doesn’t stick to the air fryer basket. Lastly, ensure you have a meat thermometer to check the steak’s internal temperature.
When cooking the air fryer cube steak, make sure to preheat your air fryer to 400F for 8 minutes. Halfway through cooking, flip the meat to ensure even browning on both sides. Once the internal temperature reaches 145F, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for 1-2 minutes before cutting.
Pair your air fryer cube steak with some tasty sides, such as sauteed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or a fresh salad. Serve it over a bed of rice or with some grilled vegetables for a complete meal. With these basic ingredients and simple instructions, you can enjoy a delicious and affordable meal in no time.
Step-by-step Guide To Cooking Air Fryer Cube Steak:
Air Fryer Cube Steak is a great meal option for those who are looking for a quick, cheap, and delicious meal. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make this dish in your air fryer.
To start, marinate the cube steak for at least one hour or up to 12 hours. This will help tenderize the meat and add flavor to it. The marinade should consist of olive oil, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, onion, salt, and pepper.
Next, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees F. While it’s heating up, remove the marinated meat from the bag and gently shake it to remove any excess liquid.
Once the air fryer is preheated, lay the steaks in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 4-6 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 145 degrees F for beef.
After cooking, transfer the air fryer cube steak to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing and serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful steak.
Air frying is also a healthy way to prepare steak, as very little oil is needed. Use a thin coating of cooking spray to prevent the steak from sticking and burning. It’s also important not to overcook the steak, as this will make it tough. Aim for medium-rare to medium for the best flavor and texture.
In conclusion, air fryer cube steak is a quick, easy, and affordable meal option that is sure to please. With this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to make delicious cube steak in no time. Enjoy! [4]
Serving Suggestions For Air Fryer Cube Steak:
1. One great thing about air fryer cube steak is that it is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Consider serving the steak with mashed potatoes and a vegetable like green beans or broccoli for a classic pairing.
2. If you want something lighter, try serving the steak on top of a bed of mixed greens for a flavorful steak salad. Top the salad with your favorite dressing and have a completely nutritious and delicious meal.
3. For a more hearty option, consider serving the steak with roasted vegetables like carrots, onions, and peppers. This is a great choice if you’re looking for something that can be prepared in large batches for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
4. Another great option is to serve the steak with a side of rice or quinoa. This is a great way to add some extra fiber and nutrition to your meal, and it pairs well with the flavors of the steak.
5. If you love spicy food, consider serving the steak with a side of hot sauce or salsa. This is a great way to add some extra kick to your meal, and it can help balance out the rich flavor of the steak.
6. Finally, consider serving the steak with a side of garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping in the flavorful juices. This is a great choice if you’re looking for something that’s easy to prepare and a little bit indulgent.
Recommended Kitchen Tools For Cooking Air Fryer Cube Steak:
When cooking Air Fryer Cube Steak, having the right kitchen tools can make all the difference. Here are some recommended tools that can help you achieve perfect results every time:
Firstly, a good air fryer is essential. A quality air fryer can ensure that your steak is perfectly cooked to your liking. It can also be used to cook a variety of other dishes, making it an excellent investment.
Secondly, a silicone brush or cooking spray will come in handy when preparing the steak. Use the brush or spray to coat the steak with cooking oil before seasoning it with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices. This will help the steak to cook evenly and stay moist.
Next, a meat thermometer is a must-have tool when cooking steak. It will help you ensure that the meat is cooked to the correct temperature, which is essential for safety and flavor.
Another handy tool to have is a set of tongs, as they can be used to flip the steak and move it around in the air fryer basket without damaging it.
Lastly, a cutting board and sharp knife are necessary when it comes to slicing the steak. A sharp knife ensures clean and even cuts, while a cutting board keeps mess and bacteria at bay.
These essential kitchen tools make cooking Air Fryer Cube Steak an enjoyable and effortless experience. Try out this cheap, quick, and delicious meal idea today!
What Is Teriyaki Sauce, And Why Is It A Good Choice For Cube Steak?
Teriyaki sauce is a popular Japanese sweet and savory sauce that is made with soy sauce, sugar, ginger, garlic, and mirin, a sweet Japanese rice wine. It adds a rich umami flavor to the dish and is packed with delicious aromas. Due to its unique combination of sweet and savory flavors, it is an excellent choice for cube steak. The marinade helps to tenderize the meat while the flavors of the teriyaki sauce seep deep into the beef, making it juicy, succulent, and flavorful.
Compared to other sauces like barbeque or Worcestershire, the sweetness of the teriyaki balances perfectly with the beef’s natural flavors and brings out its tenderness. When used with cube steak, it helps to cut through the chewy texture sometimes associated with the cut, so it’s a great choice for those looking for an inexpensive and flavorful meal idea. With its versatility, the sauce can also be used in various dishes, whether as a marinade or a dipping sauce. Teriyaki sauce can be easily found in grocery stores or made from scratch with just a few simple ingredients. It’s also a low-fat option, making it a healthy choice. Overall, teriyaki sauce is a delicious and versatile cube steak choice that will satisfy your taste buds.
Recommendations For More Air Fryer Recipes
Air fryer cube steak is a cheap, quick, and delicious meal idea that can be cooked in minutes. But if you’re looking for more air fryer recipes to add to your dinner rotation, here are some recommendations for you to try out!
First on the list is air fryer chicken. Cut chicken breasts into strips and season them with your favorite spices, then pop them in the air fryer for a crispy and juicy meal.
Next up, try air fryer french fries. Cut your potatoes into thin strips, toss them with a bit of oil and salt, and let the air fryer work its magic for crunchy and tasty fries.
For a healthier option, try air fryer roasted vegetables. Toss your favorite veggies in oil and seasoning and roast them in the air fryer for a flavorful and nutritious side dish.
If you’re craving something sweet, make air fryer apple chips. Slice your apples thinly and coat them in cinnamon and sugar, then air fry them until they’re crispy and delicious.
Lastly, make air fryer meatballs for a fun and easy dinner idea. Mix ground beef with breadcrumbs and seasoning, form into balls, and cook them in the air fryer for a tasty and simple meal.
With these recommendations, you’ll be able to whip up a variety of meals in your air fryer that are both easy and delicious. So go ahead and try some of them out, and let us know which one was your favorite!
FAQ:
1 What is cube steak?
Cube steak is a cut of flattened and pre-tenderized beef, making it an inexpensive and flavorful option. It is typically cut from the top or bottom round near the rump of the cow, which can be a tough cut of meat, but the pre-tenderization process makes it easy to cook, similar to a chicken cutlet. It is often used in budget-friendly meals and can be found at most grocery stores.
2. How can cube steak be cooked in an air fryer?
Cooking cube steak in an air fryer is a simple and quick process. Start by lightly spraying the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or coating it with oil. Then season the cube steak with desired seasonings and place it in the air fryer basket, making sure the pieces don’t overlap. Cook it in the air fryer at 400F for 8 minutes, flipping the meat halfway through cooking. Check the steak’s internal temperature to ensure it is at least 145F before removing it, and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting.
3. How can cube steak be frozen and stored?
Cube steak can be frozen and stored for future use. Wrap each piece several times in plastic wrap, then place them in a re-sealable freezer bag and store them in the freezer. When ready to cook, place the frozen steak in the fridge overnight to thaw out.
4. What are some suggested sides to serve with air-fried cube steak?
There are several options to consider when deciding what to serve with air-fried cube steak. Something saucy, like mushrooms and caramelized onions, would be a delicious complement. It could also be added to a salad for a lighter option. Other suggested sides include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side of your choice.
5. What are some benefits of using an air fryer to cook cube steak?
Using an air fryer to cook cube steak has several benefits. It requires only a small amount of oil, making it a healthier option than traditional frying methods. The air fryer cooks the steak quickly and evenly, resulting in a juicy and tender cut of meat. Plus, using an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get a meal on the table in no time.
Conclusion
Air fryer cube steak is an affordable, quick, and easy meal that offers a savory, succulent taste. Using an air fryer, this recipe makes the cooking process faster and delivers the perfect taste for meat lovers. With the help of a simple marinade made with ingredients such as olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, minced garlic, and black pepper, the steak is tenderized and flavored to perfection. The marinade is applied for at least an hour before preheating the air fryer to 400°F and later placing the steaks in the fryer basket for 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the steak. Thick steaks may require a longer cooking time for fully cooked centers.
Air fryer cube steak pairs perfectly with sides such as mashed potatoes, veggies, salad, or biscuits. Adding a sauce, such as mushroom or caramelized onion sauce, makes it even more appealing. The resulting taste is a juicy, flavorful, tender steak that satisfies the palate. This recipe is a must-try for those who have never tried cube steak, delivering perfect results in minutes. It’s also easy to freeze uncooked cube steaks, providing an affordable and convenient meal option anytime. Cooking this steak has never been easier with the ease of air frying.