What Is Cube Steak

• Beef is the most common type of cube steak, but pork cube steaks are available as well. The steaks are very thin because they're tenderized mechanically. The machine flattens the meat and punches holes in it. It's an economical cut of meat that cooks quickly. Season the meat with salt and pepper and other spices and herbs if you like.

Cube Steak Casserole

• Dinner is ready in less than an hour and doesn't take much prep work at all. Brown the steaks quickly over high heat. Don't keep on the heat too long or the steaks will cook through. Remove from the pan and lower the heat to medium. Add in your choice of leeks, scallions or shallots. Cook for a few minutes until the vegetables soften. Add the steaks back to the pan with a can of creamed condensed soup. Add a half can of raw rice and another can of water. Another option is to use diced potatoes or even frozen hash browns. If you use potatoes, don't add additional water. Toss in a bag of frozen vegetables for a complete dinner. Bring to a boil on the stove and then transfer to the oven. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit about 45 minutes.

Stir Fry Supper

• Put this stir fry supper on the table in 20 minutes or less. Cut the steaks into 1-inch strips. Dip into cornstarch and set aside. Cut vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, celery and summer squash into equal size pieces. Mix 1 part cornstarch to 7 parts water or chicken broth. Add Asian-inspired spices such as cinnamon, ginger, anise, cayenne pepper or minced garlic to the cornstarch mixture. Add a splash of oil to a wok or large frying pan and place over high heat. When the oil shimmers, toss in the meat and vegetables. Stir the mixture with two spatulas, bringing the meat and vegetables at the bottom and center of the wok to the top and sides. Cook for 5 minutes or until the steak is done. Add in the cornstarch mixture and remove from the heat. Serve with cooked ramen noodles.

Stuffed Cube Steaks

• Serve stuffed cube steaks for a satisfying supper that looks attractive but is a breeze to make. Place chopped cooked vegetables, cheese, bread crumbs or seasoned rice on one side of the steak. Roll up and secure with butcher's twine. Saute over high heat until all sides of the roll have browned. Lower heat and add about 1/2 inch of liquid. Cover and let simmer, turning once, until the rolls are cooked, which will take about 30 to 45 minutes.