Smothered Round Steak with Gravy

1. Stage

Sprinkle each side of the round steak pieces with salt and pepper, rubbing seasoning into the meat.

2. Stage

Combine 1/2 cup flour and garlic powder in a 1-gallon resealable bag. Add steak pieces, seal bag, and shake to evenly coat all the pieces.

3. Stage

Heat 1/3 cup of oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add seasoned and floured steak pieces to the skillet in a single layer in batches and cook until browned, 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and keep warm. Repeat with remaining pieces, adding more oil, if necessary, until all are browned.

4. Stage

Add onion slices to the same skillet and stir, coating onions with pan drippings, until onion slices have separated and are just beginning to soften, about 2 minutes. Move onions to one side of the skillet and return browned steak pieces to the skillet. Spread steak evenly in the skillet and place onions on top.

5. Stage

Stir together water, beef base, and Worcestershire sauce in a microwave-safe container. Microwave on high for 1 minute, stir, and pour into the skillet. Cover, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook until the steak is tender, about 45 minutes.

6. Stage

Remove the steak from the skillet and add reserved 1/2 cup of flour to the pan drippings. Increase heat to medium; stir briskly and cook until bubbly, 2 to 3 minutes.

7. Stage

Stir in milk and keep stirring until gravy bubbles again. Return steak, onions, and any accumulated juices to the skillet, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until flavors are well combined, about 10 minutes.