Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was the heart of our home, a place where stories unfolded and love simmered in every pot.
I remember crisp autumn evenings, the kind where the air carried the scent of woodsmoke, and my tummy rumbled with anticipation. Without fail, Nana would have her famous comfort dish on the stove: a bubbling pot of what she simply called “Sophie’s Favorite.” It wasn’t just food; it was a warm embrace, a memory etched in my soul.
That dish, friends, was none other than this incredible Cubed Steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles. It’s a recipe that transcends mere ingredients, transforming into an experience, a tradition passed down through generations.
The aroma alone would draw everyone to the kitchen, promising warmth, flavor, and togetherness. Today, I’m so excited to share my adaptation of Nana’s cherished recipe for Cubed steak with onion Gravy and buttery egg noodles, a dish guaranteed to bring that same comforting magic to your own table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cubed Steak with Savory Onion Gravy
This isn’t just another dinner recipe; it’s an invitation to nostalgia, a culinary hug for your soul. You’ll adore this Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles because it masterfully combines tender, melt-in-your-mouth cubed steak with a rich, deeply flavored onion gravy that clings perfectly to every strand of those impossibly buttery egg noodles. It’s hearty without being heavy, sophisticated in flavor yet wonderfully simple to prepare.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner on a chilly evening, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special. Furthermore, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option, meaning you can enjoy the deliciousness of Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg Noodles even on your busiest days. Guests will rave about the robust flavors, and your home will smell divine as it simmers.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward creating this magical meal. Every component plays a crucial role in the symphony of flavors that is our Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles. Freshness truly makes a difference here.
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Meat | Beef Cubed Steak (or sirloin tip steak, cut into 1-inch pieces) | 1.5 – 2 pounds |
| Seasoning | Salt | 1 teaspoon (or to taste) |
| Seasoning | Black Pepper | 1/2 teaspoon (or to taste) |
| Cooking Fat | Olive Oil (or vegetable oil) | 2 tablespoons |
| Aromatics | Yellow Onions, thinly sliced | 2 large |
| Flavor Boost | Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Thickener | All-Purpose Flour | 1/4 cup |
| Liquid | Beef Broth (low sodium recommended) | 4 cups |
| Flavor Boost | Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Flavor Boost | Dried Thyme | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Flavor Boost | Bay Leaf | 1 |
| Noodles | Wide Egg Noodles | 16 ounces |
| Finishing | Unsalted Butter | 4 tablespoons |
| Garnish | Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional) | For garnish |
Substitutions & Variations
Part of the joy of cooking lies in making a recipe truly your own. This Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles recipe is wonderfully adaptable. Consider these ideas to suit your preferences or what you have on hand:
* Meat: If you can’t find cubed steak, feel free to use sirloin tip, chuck roast cut into 1-inch pieces, or even pork shoulder for a different flavor profile. Just be aware that Cooking times might vary.
* Noodles: While buttery egg noodles are classic for this dish, you can absolutely substitute them.
Penne, fettuccine, or even mashed potatoes make excellent vehicles for the rich onion gravy. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta or rice.
* Vegetables: Amp up the nutrition!
Sliced mushrooms, carrots, or peas can be added to the gravy during the last 30 minutes of simmering. They absorb the wonderful flavors beautifully.
* Herbs: Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs.
Rosemary or a touch of dried sage would complement the beef and onion gravy wonderfully.
* Creaminess: For an extra decadent touch, stir in a quarter cup of heavy cream or sour cream at the very end, just before serving the Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
It adds a luxurious texture.
* Spicy Kick: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can introduce a lovely warmth to the dish if you enjoy a little heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Crafting this delicious Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles is a journey of simple steps leading to incredible flavor. Follow along, and you’ll have a heartwarming meal in no time.
Visual Guide: We’ve included this video to help you see the techniques in action, but please stick to the written instructions below for the exact recipe.
1. Prepare the Steak: Pat the cubed steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
This initial seasoning is crucial for building Flavor in your Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
2. Sear the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
Once shimmering, sear the steak in batches. Do not overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until beautifully browned.
Remove the seared steak to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions: Reduce the heat to medium.
Add the thinly sliced onions to the pot. Cook them slowly, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until they are softened, translucent, and slightly caramelized. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot; these add incredible depth to the onion gravy.
4. Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and stir constantly for 2-3 minutes.
This cooks out the raw flour taste and creates a roux, the base for your thick, rich gravy for the Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
5. Build the Gravy: Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
Add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, still whisking.
6.
Return Steak & Simmer: Return the seared steak pieces to the pot, nestling them into the gravy. Ensure the steak is mostly submerged. Bring the gravy back to a low simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours.
The steak should be incredibly tender, easily shredded with a fork. This long simmer develops the deep flavors of the Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
7.
Cook the Noodles: About 20 minutes before the steak is done, cook the wide egg noodles according to package directions in a separate pot of salted boiling water. Drain them well.
8.
Butter the Noodles: Transfer the drained egg noodles back to their pot. Add the butter and toss gently until the butter melts and coats all the noodles. Season with a pinch of salt if needed.
These buttery egg noodles are the perfect complement to the rich gravy.
9. Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the gravy.
Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve generous portions of the tender cubed steak and luscious onion gravy over the warm, buttery egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your homemade Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles!
Pro Tips for Success
Achieving perfection with your Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles is easy with a few insider tricks. These tips will elevate your dish from good to absolutely unforgettable.
* Don’t Rush the Sear: A good sear on your cubed steak is crucial. It locks in flavor and creates those delicious browned bits (fond) at the bottom of the pan, which become the foundation of your rich onion gravy. Sear in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which steams the meat instead of browning it.
* Caramelize Your Onions: Take your time with the onions. Cooking them slowly until they are deeply golden and sweet will add incredible depth of flavor to the gravy. This step truly distinguishes the Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
* Whisk Away Lumps: When adding flour and then broth, whisk vigorously and continuously. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, silky gravy. Start with a little broth, whisking into a paste, then gradually add the rest.
* Slow Simmer is Key: The long, slow simmer is what makes the cubed steak incredibly tender. Don’t crank up the heat; let it gently bubble, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Patience creates magic in this Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
* Taste and Adjust: Always taste your gravy before serving. You might need to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a touch more Worcestershire sauce to balance the flavors. A dash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can also deepen the taste.
* Perfecting Buttery Noodles: Don’t overcook your egg noodles; they should be al dente. Draining them thoroughly and then tossing them with good quality butter ensures they are not watery and are perfectly coated, making them ideal for the Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
* Make Ahead Magic: This dish actually tastes even better the next day!
The flavors have more time to develop and deepen. This makes Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles an excellent choice for meal prepping or entertaining.
Storage & Reheating Tips
One of the many wonderful things about this Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles is how well it stores and reheats. You can savor the deliciousness for days!
* Refrigeration: Store leftover cubed steak and onion gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Store the buttery egg noodles separately if possible, or combine them just before serving.
* Freezing: The cubed steak and onion gravy freeze beautifully.
Allow the gravy to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Freezing cooked egg noodles is not recommended as they can become mushy upon thawing. It’s best to cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve.
* Reheating (Gravy & Steak): Gently reheat the gravy and steak in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
If the gravy seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. You want to maintain the luscious texture of the Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
* Reheating (Noodles): For leftover noodles, you can gently warm them in a microwave with a splash of water or broth, or briefly sauté them in a pan with a little butter. Freshly cooked noodles are always best for this Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
What to Serve With This Recipe
While this Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles is a complete and satisfying meal on its own, pairing it with a simple side dish can elevate the entire experience.
* Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cubed steak with onion gravy.
* Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed or sautéed green beans with a hint of garlic are a classic and healthy accompaniment.
* Roasted Carrots: Sweet, tender roasted carrots complement the savory notes of the dish beautifully.
Their natural sweetness is a lovely balance.
* Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of artisan bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delectable onion gravy.
* Asparagus: Blanched or roasted asparagus adds a touch of elegance and a vibrant green color to your plate.
* Coleslaw: A fresh, crunchy coleslaw can also provide a nice textural and flavor contrast.
* Braised Red Cabbage: For an even more traditional, hearty pairing, braised red cabbage offers a lovely tangy sweetness.
FAQs
Here are some common questions about making this comforting Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles:
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cubed steak is perfect, you can use other cuts like sirloin tip, chuck roast, or even round steak cut into 1-inch pieces. Be aware that tougher cuts like chuck will require a longer simmering time to become fork-tender for your Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
How can I make the gravy thicker or thinner?
To thicken the gravy, you can make a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering gravy a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency. To thin it, simply add a splash more beef broth until it’s just right. The perfect gravy is essential for this Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
Can I make this Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s highly recommended! The flavors of the cubed steak and onion gravy actually deepen and meld beautifully overnight. Prepare the steak and gravy a day in advance, then cook the fresh buttery egg noodles just before serving.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
The cubed steak and onion gravy portion of the dish is very freezer-friendly! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
However, I don’t recommend freezing the cooked egg noodles as they tend to become mushy. Freshly made noodles are best for this Cubed Steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
What are the best egg noodles to use?
Wide egg noodles are generally preferred for this recipe as their flat, broad surface holds the rich onion gravy wonderfully. Look for good quality, plain wide egg noodles for the best results in your Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. This information is for the cubed steak with onion gravy portion, not including the egg noodles.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9 g |
| Cholesterol | 110 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
Cubed steak with onion gravy and buttery egg noodles
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Optional
Description
A comforting dish featuring tender Cubed steak smothered in rich onion gravy and served over buttery egg noodles, perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
1.5 – 2 pounds Beef Cubed Steak (or sirloin tip steak, cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste)
1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (or to taste)
2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or vegetable oil)
2 large Yellow Onions, thinly sliced
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour
4 cups Beef Broth (low sodium recommended)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce
1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme
1 Bay Leaf
16 ounces Wide Egg Noodles
4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
Fresh Parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Steak: Pat the cubed steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides
- Sear the Steak: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, sear the steak in batches for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Remove to a plate and set aside
- Sauté the Onions: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes until softened and caramelized
- Add Garlic and Flour: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and cook constantly for 2-3 minutes to create a roux
- Build the Gravy: Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer
- Return Steak & Simmer: Add the seared steak back into the pot, cover, and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours until tender
- Cook the Noodles: About 20 minutes before the steak is done, cook the wide egg noodles according to the package directions and drai
- Butter the Noodles: Add butter to the drained noodles and toss gently until melted and coated
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf from the gravy, taste and adjust seasoning, then serve the cubed steak and onion gravy over the noodles, garnished with parsley if desired
Notes
This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: unknown
- Trans Fat: unknown
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg