What to Cook with Beef Cubes: 10 Delicious Recipe Ideas

Beef cubes, also known as stew meat, offer a versatile protein option for easy weeknight dinners. The small, bite-sized pieces cook quickly and absorb flavors easily. Keep reading for 10 delicious ways to cook with beef cubes!

What Are Beef Cubes?

Beef cubes are small, 1-inch pieces of beef, usually cut from round or chuck roast. They are sold pre-cut and packaged as “stew meat” or “beef for kebabs.”

Compared to larger beef cuts, cubes offer these advantages:

• Cook faster – The small size means short cooking time.

• Easy to skewer – Perfect size for shish kebabs.

• Absorb flavors – The extra surface area lets them soak up sauces and seasonings.

• Affordable – Stew cuts are budget-friendly.

• Versatile – Use in stews, kebabs, stir fries, and more.

Pre-cut beef cubes provide an easy protein choice for quick weeknight meals.

10 Recipe Ideas for Beef Cubes

Here are 10 delicious ways to use cubed beef in your cooking:

1. Beef Stew

Tender beef cubes simmered in a rich gravy or sauce are classic for beef stew. Brown the cubes first for extra flavor.

2. Beef Stroganoff

Sauteed beef cubes in a creamy mushroom stroganoff sauce over egg noodles is comfort food at its finest.

3. Kebabs

Alternate beef cubes with veggies on skewers for perfect backyard grilling. Brush with a bold marinade.

4. Stir Fry

Stir fries cook quickly, so they are a perfect match for beef cubes. Toss with veggies and rice.

5. Fajitas

Spice up beef cubes with Mexican flair. Sauté with bell peppers and serve in warm tortillas.

6. Beef and Broccoli

This Chinese restaurant classic is easy to recreate at home with beef cubes, broccoli, and savory sauce.

7. Pot Roast

Cubes work great as the meat for pot roasts. Cook low and slow in the oven until fall-apart tender.

8. Beef Bourguignon

French beef stew loaded with vegetables, herbs, and red wine – a cozy way to use cubed beef.

9. Beef Soup

Simmer beef cubes in broth with vegetables like carrots, onions, and potatoes for a comforting soup.

10. Cube Kabobs

Assemble colorful cubed kabobs using beef, peppers, mushrooms, pineapple, and other fresh ingredients.

With a variety of herbs, sauces, and global flavors, the possibilities are endless for cooking with beef cubes!

Tips for Cooking Beef Cubes

Follow these tips for tasty, tender results when cooking with cubed beef:

• Pat cubes dry before browning to help them sear vs. steam.

• Cook in batches to avoid crowding the pan and steaming the meat.

• Brown well on all sides to build deep, rich flavor.

• Add aromatics like garlic, onions, and herbs to infuse flavors.

• Cook low and slow in stews and pot roasts using moist heat to break down connective tissues.

• Use a meat thermometer and cook to a safe internal temperature.

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.

With proper browning, seasoning, and cooking technique, beef cubes can deliver tender, flavorful meals suitable for any night of the week.

More Recipe Inspiration for Beef Cubes

Need a bit more inspiration for what to cook with those pre-cut beef cubes? Here are some reader favorite recipes to consider trying:

• Smoky Slow Cooker Chili – Slow cooked with beans and seasonings for hearty chili.

• Easy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry – A quick weeknight version of a Chinese takeout classic.

• Homemade Hamburger Helper – Retro comfort food made from scratch.

• Italian Beef Sandwiches – Fall-apart beef cubes topped with peppers and giardiniera.

• Mongolian Beef – Crispy beef cubes in a sweet and savory sauce.

• Hungarian Beef Goulash – Hearty beef and veggie stew flavored with paprika.

Don’t let a package of beef cubes go to waste! With this guide and recipe ideas in hand, you can easily whip up a delicious weeknight dinner.