Easy Beef Cube Recipes For Dinner

Beef cubes are an incredibly versatile and affordable cut of meat, perfect for creating a variety of dishes that are both hearty and flavorful. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight meal or preparing for a special occasion, beef cubes can be transformed into countless recipes that suit any taste. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best ways to cook beef cubes, focusing on easy, yet flavorful recipes that will satisfy everyone at the table.

What Are Beef Cubes?

Beef cubes are simply pieces of beef that have been cut into small, uniform cubes, usually from tougher cuts of meat that benefit from slow cooking or high-heat methods. These cubes are great for stir-fries, stews, or kebabs, and they offer a convenient way to cook and enjoy beef without the need for expensive cuts of meat.

Best Cuts of Beef for Cubes

When preparing beef cubes, it’s important to choose cuts that are suitable for quick cooking or slow braising. Some of the best cuts to use include:

• Chuck Roast: Perfect for stews and slow-cooked dishes.

• Sirloin: Great for grilling or pan-searing.

• Round Steak: A leaner option, ideal for stir-fries.

• Brisket: Excellent for slow-cooked dishes like BBQ or stews.

These cuts offer a balance between tenderness and flavor, making them perfect for beef cube recipes.

Easy Beef Cube Recipes to Try

Beef cubes are incredibly versatile and can be used in various types of cuisine. Below are a few tried-and-true recipes that highlight their rich flavor and texture.

Garlic Herb Steak Bites

These Garlic Herb Steak Bites are perfect for a quick, savory appetizer or an easy main course. They’re packed with flavor, simple to make, and can be served in different ways.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 pounds beef cubes (sirloin or ribeye)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

 

Instructions:

1. Season the Beef: Combine the beef cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss to coat the beef evenly and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes.

2. Cook the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes. Let them cook undisturbed for about 3-4 minutes to create a nice crust on one side. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the beef reaches your desired level of doneness.

3. Finish with Butter: Once the beef is cooked, add the butter and stir to coat the cubes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes:

• These steak bites are great for appetizers when served with toothpicks or can be enjoyed as a main dish with rice or potatoes.

• Adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences; you can add chili flakes for some heat.

Beef Cube Stir-Fry

A quick and flavorful stir-fry is a perfect way to use beef cubes. Packed with vegetables and a savory sauce, this stir-fry makes a great weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cubes (round steak or sirloin)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

• 1 small onion, thinly sliced

• 1 cup broccoli florets

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

• Cooked rice, to serve

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.

2. Stir-Fry the Beef: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same pan, add the onion, bell pepper, and broccoli. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.

4. Combine: Add the garlic and ginger to the pan, and cook for another minute until fragrant. Return the beef to the pan and pour the sauce over everything. Stir to coat and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

5. Serve: Serve the stir-fry over a bed of cooked rice for a complete meal.

Notes:

• You can swap the vegetables based on what you have in the fridge. Snow peas, carrots, or mushrooms also work well in this stir-fry.

• For a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili paste to the sauce.

 

Beef Cube Stew

A warm, comforting beef stew made with beef cubes is perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold night. This stew is rich, hearty, and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds beef cubes (chuck roast or brisket)

• 4 cups beef broth

• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup celery, chopped

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Simmer the Stew: Add the beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and browned beef cubes back to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

4. Add Potatoes: Add the diced potatoes to the stew and continue simmering for another 30 minutes, until the potatoes are tender.

5. Thicken the Stew (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a little water to make a slurry, and stir it into the stew. Cook for an additional 10 minutes to thicken.

6. Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Notes:

• This stew can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

• Add more vegetables like peas or parsnips for extra flavor and nutrition.

More Beef Cube Recipe Ideas

If you’re looking to get more creative with beef cubes, here are a few additional recipes that will surely satisfy your cravings. These recipes highlight different cooking techniques and flavor profiles, allowing you to explore a variety of delicious beef cube dishes.

Beef Cube Tacos

A fun and flavorful way to enjoy beef cubes is by turning them into taco filling. These beef tacos are quick, easy to make, and packed with savory goodness.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cubes (sirloin or chuck)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 8 small flour tortillas

• Toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, sour cream, salsa, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Season the Beef: Toss the beef cubes with olive oil, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to marinate.

2. Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through.

3. Prepare the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave. Fill each tortilla with the cooked beef and your favorite toppings.

4. Serve: Squeeze a little lime juice over the tacos and garnish with fresh cilantro. Serve with a side of rice or beans for a complete meal.

Notes:

• For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some finely chopped jalapeños to your tacos.

• You can also use beef cubes to make burritos or taco salads for a delicious variation.

 

Beef Cube Kabobs

Kabobs are a great way to grill beef cubes. Marinated in a flavorful sauce, these skewers are perfect for a summer BBQ or a casual weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cubes (sirloin or tenderloin)

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 red onion, cut into chunks

• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks

• 1 zucchini, sliced

Instructions:

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Marinate the Beef: Place the beef cubes in a ziplock bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the beef and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).

3. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated beef cubes, onion, bell pepper, and zucchini onto skewers, alternating between the meat and vegetables.

4. Grill the Kabobs: Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the beef reaches your desired level of doneness.

5. Serve: Serve the kabobs with a side of rice or a simple salad.

Notes:

• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook these kabobs in the oven under the broiler or on a stovetop grill pan.

• You can also use other vegetables like mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for variety.

Beef Cube Soup

A comforting beef cube soup is perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty soup is packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, making it a filling and nutritious meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds beef cubes (chuck or round steak)

• 6 cups beef broth

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 2 potatoes, diced

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides, then remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté the onions, garlic, and carrots for 3-4 minutes until softened.

3. Make the Soup: Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and the browned beef back to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.

4. Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes:

• Feel free to add other vegetables like celery, peas, or green beans for more flavor and nutrition.

• This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s even better the next day as the flavors develop.

Why Beef Cubes are a Great Choice for Cooking

Beef cubes are a fantastic choice for a variety of recipes due to their affordability, versatility, and ability to absorb flavors. Here’s why they should be a staple in your kitchen:

• Affordability: Beef cubes are a more budget-friendly option compared to premium cuts of beef. They offer great flavor and tenderness without the higher price tag.

• Versatility: Whether you’re making stews, stir-fries, kabobs, or tacos, beef cubes can be adapted to almost any recipe. They can be cooked quickly or slowly, depending on the dish.

• Flavor: Because beef cubes are often from cuts with a good balance of fat and muscle, they are flavorful and tender when cooked properly. The fat helps keep the meat juicy and rich in flavor.

Tips for Cooking Beef Cubes to Perfection

Cooking beef cubes properly is crucial to achieving tender, juicy, and flavorful results. Here are some expert tips to ensure your beef cube recipes are always a success:

1. Choose the Right Cut

The cut of beef you choose will impact the final texture and flavor of the dish. As mentioned earlier, cuts like chuck, sirloin, and round steak work well for beef cubes. These cuts offer a good balance of tenderness and flavor, especially when cooked low and slow.

• Chuck roast is great for slow-cooked stews and soups.

• Sirloin is ideal for stir-fries and quick-cooking recipes.

• Round steak is leaner and works well for skewers or tacos.

2. Don’t Overcook

Beef cubes cook quickly, especially when using high-heat methods like grilling or stir-frying. Overcooking can result in tough, dry meat. Aim for medium to medium-rare for tender beef, and remember that beef continues to cook slightly after being removed from the heat.

• For stir-fries or skillet recipes, cook the beef until it’s browned on the outside but still tender inside.

• For slow-cooked recipes, cook until the beef is tender enough to shred with a fork.

3. Marinate for Extra Flavor

Marinating beef cubes before cooking adds layers of flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and spices can infuse the meat with a depth of taste. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes in the marinade will make a difference. If you have more time, marinate overnight for a more intense flavor.

4. Use the Right Cooking Method

Beef cubes can be cooked in various ways depending on the recipe. Here’s a breakdown of the best methods for different dishes:

• Grilling: Ideal for beef cubes skewered on kebabs or used in tacos.

• Searing: Perfect for steak bites or stir-fries. Sear the beef in a hot skillet to develop a crispy exterior.

• Slow Cooking: Works well for stews, soups, and curries. Low and slow cooking tenderizes tougher cuts of beef, making them melt-in-your-mouth tender.

5. Rest the Beef After Cooking

After cooking, let your beef cubes rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, keeping it moist and tender. This is particularly important for grilled or seared beef cubes.

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Beef Cube Recipe Variations to Explore

If you’re looking to try new flavors, beef cubes are an excellent base for experimentation. Here are some creative variations to explore:

1. Beef Cube Chili

Transform your beef cubes into a hearty chili by simmering them with beans, tomatoes, chili powder, and other spices. This recipe is perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cubes (chuck roast or sirloin)

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• 1 onion, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef cubes in a pot, then add the onions and cook until softened.

2. Add the remaining ingredients and simmer for 1-2 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.

3. Serve with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal.

2. Beef Cube Bolognese

Use beef cubes in a rich, flavorful Bolognese sauce. The cubes simmer in tomato sauce and herbs, making for a meaty, savory dish perfect for pasta.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound beef cubes (round steak or sirloin)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1/2 cup red wine

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon oregano

• 1 teaspoon basil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan and brown the beef cubes. Remove and set aside.

2. Add garlic to the pan, then pour in the wine and deglaze the pan.

3. Add the crushed tomatoes, herbs, and beef cubes. Simmer for 1 hour until the beef is tender.

4. Serve over pasta for a delicious Bolognese dish.