As I reminisce about my childhood, I’m often transported back to the warm, bustling kitchen of my grandmother’s home. Sundays were always special, filled with the mouthwatering aroma of her famous breaded cubed steaks frying up in a cast-iron skillet. She’d serve them with fluffy white rice and a wedge of lime, a simple yet satisfying meal that brought our family together around the dinner table. Those moments are some of my most cherished memories—filled with laughter, stories, and the comforting taste of home-cooked food.
Years later, after I started my own family, I found myself longing to recreate those flavors but with a modern twist. Enter the air fryer, my kitchen savior for healthier yet equally delicious versions of classic dishes. This Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak is a nod to my grandmother’s original recipe but with less grease and a whole lot more convenience. The first time I made it for my family, I was pleasantly surprised by how the air fryer managed to perfectly crisp up the breading while keeping the steak tender and juicy inside.
What makes this recipe so dear to me is how it bridges the gap between generations. I often tell my kids stories about their great-grandmother as I prepare the steaks, and I like to think that somehow, they’re getting a taste of the love and tradition that filled her kitchen. The addition of white rice and lime wedges is a small but meaningful way I’ve kept her legacy alive, adding my own twist to something that has been passed down through the years.
Whether you’re preparing this for a busy weeknight dinner or as a comforting meal to share with loved ones, I’m sure this Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak will become a new favorite in your home. Just like it has in mine.
Making Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak
Ingredients
- 4 cubed beef steaks (totaling 16 ounces)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- Olive oil spray
- White rice and lime wedges (optional for serving)
Directions
- Season both sides of the cubed steaks evenly with kosher salt.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
- Dip each steak into the egg mixture, ensuring it is thoroughly coated, then press into the seasoned bread crumbs, using a fork to ensure even coverage.
- Place the breaded steaks in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. If necessary, work in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Lightly spray the tops of the steaks with olive oil and air fry at 400°F for 7-8 minutes on each side, reapplying oil spray after flipping.
- Once golden and crispy, remove the steaks from the air fryer and serve immediately. Optionally, serve with white rice and lime wedges on the side.
Storing Suggestion
To store any leftover cubed steaks, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through and crisp.
Cooking Tips
For an extra crispy coating, double-dip the steaks in the egg mixture and bread crumbs. You can also add a pinch of your favorite spices to the bread crumbs for added flavor, such as paprika or garlic powder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the air-fried cubed steaks with a side of steamed white rice and lime wedges. For a complete meal, add a fresh garden salad or sautéed vegetables on the side. Pair with a crisp, refreshing beverage like iced tea or lemonade.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can substitute the seasoned bread crumbs with panko for a lighter, crunchier texture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs.
Seasonal Variations
In the summer, try serving the cubed steaks with a light cucumber salad or corn on the cob. During cooler months, pair them with roasted root vegetables or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Allergen Information
This recipe contains eggs and gluten. For an egg-free version, you can substitute the egg mixture with a mixture of plant-based milk and flour. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs.
Estimated Cost
The estimated cost to prepare this dish is approximately $12, depending on the cost of beef and other ingredients in your area.
FAQ:
How can I make the coating stick better?
To ensure the coating adheres well, press the bread crumbs firmly onto the steaks using a fork. You can also refrigerate the breaded steaks for 15 minutes before air frying.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute cubed beef steaks with pork chops or chicken cutlets, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover cubed steaks can be reheated in the air fryer at 350°F until crispy. You can also slice them and use them in sandwiches or salads.
Is there a way to make this recipe lower in calories?
To reduce calories, you can use a cooking spray with fewer calories and opt for leaner cuts of meat. Additionally, using panko instead of regular bread crumbs can result in a lighter coating.
Can I prepare the steaks in advance?
Yes, you can bread the steaks and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just make sure to bring them to room temperature before air frying.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Preheating the air fryer is not necessary for this recipe, but doing so can result in a slightly crispier coating.
Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak
Ingredients
- 4 cubed beef steaks 16 ounces total
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
- 3 large eggs plus 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- olive oil spray
- white rice and lime wedges optional for serving
Instructions
- Lightly season both sides of the cubed steaks with salt.
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined.
- Dip each steak into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Then, press the steaks into the bread crumbs, using a fork to help the coating adhere.
- Arrange the breaded steaks in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, working in batches if necessary.
- Spray the tops of the steaks with olive oil, then air fry at 400°F for about 7-8 minutes per side, spraying with oil again after flipping.
- Once cooked, serve immediately with optional sides of white rice and lime wedges. Enjoy!
