Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak
If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that combines crispiness with hearty beef flavor, then Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak is the perfect dish for you. This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it also brings together the best of both worlds: tender meat and a crunchy coating, all made conveniently in your air fryer. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.
Why I Love This Recipe
One of the things I adore about this Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak is how it captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food while being incredibly simple to make. The air fryer ensures that the breaded steak comes out perfectly crispy on the outside, while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish without the mess and fuss of traditional frying. The versatility of serving it with white rice and lime wedges adds a refreshing twist that elevates the entire meal.
Your Shopping Guide
Before diving into the kitchen, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 4 pieces of cubed steak (beef round sirloin), 16 ounces total – This cut is perfect for breading and air frying.
- 3 large eggs – These will create a lovely coating for the breadcrumbs.
- 1 tablespoon of water – Helps to whisk the eggs smoothly.
- 1 1/4 teaspoons salt – Essential for seasoning the meat.
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs – Look for your favorite brand or make your own for extra flavor.
- Olive oil spray – This is crucial for achieving that golden-brown crust.
- White rice and lime wedges (optional) – A delightful addition to serve alongside the steak.
Prep & Cook Tools
Gather these essential tools to make your cooking experience smooth and efficient:
- Air fryer – The star of the show, making this dish crispy without deep frying.
- Mixing bowls – For whisking the eggs and combining the breadcrumbs.
- Whisk – To mix the eggs and water thoroughly.
- Plate or shallow dish – Ideal for coating the cubed steak with breadcrumbs.
- Meat mallet (optional) – If you want to tenderize the cubed steak a bit more.
Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak: From Prep to Plate
Let’s get started with the step-by-step guide to making this amazing dish!
Step 1: Prepare the Steak
Start by patting the cubed steak dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better.
Step 2: Season the Meat
Sprinkle the salt evenly over both sides of the cubed steak. This step is crucial for enhancing the flavor.
Step 3: Whisk the Eggs
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1 tablespoon of water until well combined. This mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the steak.
Step 4: Coat the Steak
Dip each piece of cubed steak into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off before moving to the next step.
Step 5: Bread the Steak
Place the seasoned breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Dredge the egg-coated steak in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating. Repeat until all pieces are breaded.
Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that your steak cooks evenly.
Step 7: Spray with Olive Oil
Lightly spray both sides of the breaded steak with olive oil. This will help achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 8: Air Fry the Steak
Carefully place the breaded cubed steak in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the steak is crispy and cooked through.
Step 9: Serve
Once cooked, remove the steak from the air fryer and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve it with white rice and lime wedges, if desired, for a refreshing touch.
No-Store Runs Needed
Before you rush to the grocery store, check your pantry and fridge. You might already have some of these essentials:
- Eggs – A staple in most kitchens.
- Olive oil – Perfect for cooking and baking.
- Salt – A basic seasoning that every home cook should have.
- Breadcrumbs – You can make your own from stale bread if needed.
Common Errors (and Fixes)
Even the best of us can make mistakes in the kitchen. Here are some common errors when making Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak and how to fix them:
- Steak is soggy: Ensure you’ve fully coated the steak in breadcrumbs and sprayed it with enough oil before air frying.
- Breadcrumbs burn: Make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time. Every air fryer is different, so adjust as necessary.
- Steak is tough: If the meat is overcooked, it can become tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to the right temperature.
- Uneven cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Meal Prep & Storage Notes
If you’re planning to make this dish ahead of time, here are some helpful tips:
Cooked Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain its crispiness. If you want to prepare the steak ahead, you can bread it and store it in the fridge for a few hours before cooking.
Common Qs About Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak
Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cubed steak is ideal, you can use other cuts like chicken breasts or pork chops, adjusting cooking times as needed.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the seasoned breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a similar texture.
Can I freeze the breaded steak?
Yes! You can freeze the breaded steak before cooking. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, no need to thaw; just increase the cooking time slightly.
What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?
Some great options include BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a tangy aioli. You can also serve it with a squeeze of fresh lime for a zesty kick.
Next Up in Your Queue
If you loved this Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak, check out these delicious recipes to keep the inspiration flowing:
- Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Air Fryer Vegetable Spring Rolls
- Air Fryer Buffalo Cauliflower
- Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries
See You at the Table
This Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak is more than just a meal; it’s an experience to share with family and friends. The combination of flavors and textures will surely have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner at home or serving guests, this dish is bound to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready for a delightful culinary adventure that’s both simple and satisfying. Happy cooking!
Air Fryer Breaded Cubed Steak
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Prepare the Steak - Start by patting the cubed steak dry with paper towels.
- Step 2: Season the Meat - Sprinkle the salt evenly over both sides of the cubed steak.
- Step 3: Whisk the Eggs - In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined.
- Step 4: Coat the Steak - Dip each piece of cubed steak into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Step 5: Bread the Steak - Dredge the egg-coated steak in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently for an even coating.
- Step 6: Preheat the Air Fryer - Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Step 7: Spray with Olive Oil - Lightly spray both sides of the breaded steak with olive oil.
- Step 8: Air Fry the Steak - Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Step 9: Serve - Let the steak rest for a couple of minutes before serving with rice and lime wedges.
Notes
- Store cooked steak in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.
- Try using different cuts of beef or even chicken for a variation.
