Diced Beef Recipes for Dinner Everyone Will Love
Looking for delicious diced beef recipes for dinner? Try this easy, flavorful dish packed with tender beef and rich seasonings. Perfect for any night
Ingredients
Core Ingredients:
- Diced Beef 1 lb/450g: The star of the dish! Choose a cut like chuck or sirloin for tender, juicy beef. You want the pieces to be small and even to ensure they cook evenly.
- Olive Oil 2 tbsp: This will be used for browning the beef. Olive oil adds a light, fragrant flavor that complements the beef perfectly.
- Garlic 4 cloves, minced: Garlic brings a bold, aromatic kick that infuses the beef with deep flavor.
- Onion 1 large, chopped: Sweet onions work best to add a little natural sweetness to balance the richness of the beef.
- Bell Pepper 1, sliced: Adds color and a touch of crispness to the dish.
- Beef Broth 2 cups: For that rich, savory base that makes the dish comforting and hearty. For a lower-sodium option, swap in homemade or reduced-salt broth to better manage your seasoning.
- Soy Sauce 2 tbsp: A little umami goes a long way in adding depth to the dish. This ingredient will enhance the natural flavor of the beef.
- Tomato Paste 1 tbsp: Adds a rich, slightly tangy taste that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Thyme 1 tsp: Fresh thyme provides an earthy, herbaceous note that elevates the dish’s complexity.
- Salt and Pepper to taste: Season to bring all the flavors together, making the beef and vegetables truly shine.
Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor:
- Worcestershire Sauce 1 tbsp: Adds a bold, tangy flavor with a touch of sweetness. If you love a more complex taste, this is a great addition.
- Red Wine 1/2 cup: A splash of red wine can bring out an even richer flavor, especially if you’re simmering the beef for a stew.
- Potatoes 2 medium, peeled and cubed: If you’re looking for a comforting meal, adding cubed potatoes will make the dish even heartier and more filling.
- Carrots 2, sliced: For some added sweetness and color to the mix. Carrots work well in stews, adding a touch of natural sweetness to balance the savory notes.
Substitutions:
- You can easily swap the beef for chicken lamb, or even tofu if you’re aiming for a vegan or vegetarian version.
- If you prefer a gluten-free recipe be sure to check that your soy sauce is gluten-free or use tamari as a substitute.
Pro Tip:
- To elevate the flavor of the beef even further let the diced beef sit in the refrigerator for 30 minutes after seasoning with salt and pepper. This brief rest allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat, giving you a more savory and flavorful base for your dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
- Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until it shimmers. Once the oil is hot, add your diced beef in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure that the beef sears properly and gets that golden crust. Sear the beef for about 3-4 minutes per side, until it’s browned and crispy on the outside. When the beef is browned, transfer it to a plate and set it aside.
- Pro Tip:
- Avoid stirring the beef too much while it’s cooking. Let it sit on each side to develop a beautiful crispy crust. This step adds tons of flavor to your dish!
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Drizzle an extra tablespoon of olive oil into the same pan. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens and turns translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma. Add the bell pepper slices and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
- Pro Tip:
- Don’t rush this step! Sautéing the onions and garlic properly builds a deep, savory foundation for your dish.
Step 3: Deglaze and Add Broth
- Once the vegetables are cooked, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour in beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up all the delicious bits left in the pan from the beef. These bits, known as fond, are packed with flavor and will make your dish even more delicious. Add the soy sauce, tomato paste, and thyme, stirring to combine.
- Pro Tip:
- Feel free to add a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce at this point for even more depth of flavor.
Step 4: Return the Beef
- Now, add the seared beef back into the pan, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let everything cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally, ensuring nothing sticks to the bottom.
- Pro Tip:
- For a tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, take your time during this simmering process. The low and slow cooking method helps the beef become juicy and flavorful.
Step 5: Final Touches
- After the beef has cooked to perfection, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a thicker sauce, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Pro Tip:
- If you're adding potatoes or carrots, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a complete, hearty meal.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 38g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg