Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Smothered Steak and Rice is a hearty Southern-inspired comfort dish featuring tender beef steak slow-cooked in a rich, savory onion and mushroom gravy, served over fluffy rice. This meal is perfect for a cozy dinner and packed with bold, satisfying flavors that soak into every bite of the rice. It’s easy to prepare and deeply comforting.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
beef cube steaksall-purpose flouronionsgarlicmushroomsbeef brothWorcestershire saucesoy saucesaltpepperpaprikavegetable oilcooked white rice
directions
Season the cube steaks with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Dredge the steaks in flour, shaking off any excess.
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat and brown the steaks on both sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until soft and golden.
Add a bit more flour to the vegetables to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes.
Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to create a smooth gravy.
Add Worcestershire and soy sauce to deepen the flavor.
Return the steaks to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the steak is fork-tender.
Serve hot over a bed of cooked white rice.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 45 minutesTotal time: 1 hour
Variations
Use pork chops instead of beef for a different flavor.
Add bell peppers for extra color and sweetness.
Try with brown rice or mashed potatoes instead of white rice.
Include a splash of cream for a richer gravy.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.Add a splash of broth if the gravy thickens too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, round steak or chuck steak also works well when cooked low and slow.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. After browning, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it has a savory flavor profile. Add cayenne if you like some heat.
Can I freeze smothered steak?
Yes, cool completely and freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
What kind of mushrooms work best?
White button or cremini mushrooms are great options.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Conclusion
Smothered Steak and Rice is a soulful, flavor-packed meal that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet hearty enough to serve to guests. The rich gravy, tender steak, and fluffy rice make it a timeless classic you’ll want to make again and again.
PrintSmothered Steak and Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A comforting Southern-style dish featuring tender smothered steak in a savory onion and mushroom gravy served over fluffy rice.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs beef round steak, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions
- Season steak strips with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add steak and sear until browned on both sides, then remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and stir to coat evenly.
- Gradually add beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return steak to the skillet and cover. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes, until the steak is tender and the gravy has thickened.
- Serve the smothered steak and gravy over cooked rice.
Notes
- You can use brown rice or cauliflower rice as a healthier alternative.
- For extra flavor, marinate the steak in Worcestershire sauce and garlic for 1 hour before cooking.
- This dish pairs well with green beans or a side salad.