pork cube steak recipe
The Best pork cube steak recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how adaptable it is. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner because it comes together quickly, but it also feels like a showstopper when we’re hosting a small gathering. My family loves it because it’s hearty and filling without being too heavy. My kids especially enjoy it when we pair it with a simple side of roasted potatoes or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad—it’s a meal that’s balanced and satisfying. Plus, pork cube steak is one of those dishes where the meat stays juicy even when it’s sliced against the grain, which is always a win in my book. And the health benefits? Well, lean cuts of pork can be a great protein source, especially when you trim the fat and season it lightly. It’s not just about taste—it’s about making sure we’re eating something that’s good for us without sacrificing flavor. That’s what makes this recipe so special to me.
Pork Cube Steak with Garlic Butter Sauce
A flavorful dish featuring tender pork cube steak seasoned and cooked to perfection, served with a rich garlic butter sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs pork cube steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
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1
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Coat the pork cube steak evenly with the marinade and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. -
2
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the pork cube steak and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned. Transfer the steak to a baking dish. -
3
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in parsley, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat. -
4
Pour the garlic butter sauce over the pork steak in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pork reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
🔧Equipment
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowls
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra tenderness, slice the pork steak against the grain before serving.
- Adjust the sweetness of the marinade to taste.
- You can add a splash of apple cider vinegar to the sauce for a tangy twist.
Substitutions: {“marinade”:”Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.”,”butter”:”Substitute with olive oil for a lighter sauce.”}
Watch Video Of How Pork Cube Steak with Garlic Butter Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pork Cube Steak with Garlic Butter Sauce
What is the difference between pork cube steak and regular pork chops?
Pork cube steak, also known as pork loin cube steak, is typically cut from the loin portion of the pig and consists of smaller, cube-shaped pieces. These pieces are usually around 1.5 to 2 inches in size. Regular pork chops, on the other hand, are larger, rectangular cuts that come from the same loin area but are sliced thicker, often around 1 to 1.5 inches in thickness. Cube steaks are often more flavorful and tender due to the marbling and fat distribution, while chops can be more straightforward in texture.
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How do I choose the right pork cube steak for my recipe?
When selecting pork cube steak, look for cuts labeled as “loin cube steak” or “pork loin cubes.” Ensure the meat is fresh, with a uniform color (pinkish-red) and a firm texture. Avoid any pieces with dark spots, excessive moisture, or strong odors. If buying from a butcher, ask for the best quality cuts, often labeled as “prime” or “choice.” Also, consider the size and thickness of the cubes—smaller cubes tend to cook faster and more evenly.
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Why does my pork cube steak turn out dry or tough?
Several factors can cause pork cube steak to turn out dry or tough:
1. Overcooking: Pork cube steak cooks quickly, so removing it from the heat too soon (especially if using high heat) can result in dryness. Aim for medium-rare to medium doneness (145°F internal temp for medium).
2. Lack of fat: Pork cube steak benefits from a little fat for juiciness. If using lean cuts, add a pat of butter, oil, or even a slice of bacon while cooking.
3. Underseasoning: Seasoning is key—salt and pepper help retain moisture. Don’t skip the salt! Also, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can steam the meat instead of searing it.
4. Resting time: Pork cube steak should rest for at least 5–10 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices. Skipping this step can lead to a dry result.
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Can I marinate pork cube steak, and if so, what are the best marinades?
Yes, marinating pork cube steak can enhance flavor and tenderness. Here are some effective marinade ideas:
– Classic Garlic-Herb: Mix ½ cup olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, 1 tbsp fresh thyme, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tsp black pepper. Marinate for 2–4 hours (not overnight, as acid can toughen the meat).
– Spicy Cajun: Combine ½ cup olive oil, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp lime juice, and 1 tsp cayenne. Use for 1–2 hours.
– Sweet & Smoky: Blend ½ cup honey, ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tbsp grated ginger, 1 tbsp sesame oil, and 1 tsp liquid smoke. Marinate for 1–3 hours.
– Simple & Zesty: Mix ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 minced shallot, and ½ tsp Dijon mustard. Great for quick marinating.
Pro tips:
– Marinate in a sealed container or bag to prevent spills.
– Avoid acidic marinades (like vinegar or lemon juice) for more than 2 hours, as they can break down the meat’s proteins.
– Pat the meat dry before cooking for better browning.
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How do I achieve a perfect sear on pork cube steak?
A well-seared pork cube steak develops a crispy, flavorful crust while keeping the inside juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
1. Preheat the pan: Use a heavy skillet (cast iron or stainless steel) and heat it over high heat until very hot (about 400°F). This ensures a good sear.
2. Pat the meat dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the steak. This helps it brown instead of steaming.
3. Season generously: Sprinkle the steak with salt and pepper (and any marinade remnants if used) right before cooking.
4. Cook quickly: Place the steak in the hot pan and cook for 2–3 minutes per side for medium-rare (or adjust based on thickness). Don’t move it too much—let it develop a crust.
5. Use the right oil: Use a neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable oil) with a high smoke point (e.g., 400°F+). Avoid overly flavorful oils that can overpower the steak.
6. Add butter (optional): After searing, add a pat of butter with fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary) and a pinch of salt. Let it melt for a few seconds to baste the steak and add richness.
7. Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 145°F (medium) or 130°F (medium-rare) internally before removing.
Pro tip: For extra flavor, sear the steak in batches if needed, but avoid overcrowding the pan to maintain high heat.
