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Beef Cubes: Cozy, Bold Skillet Dares You to Taste
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Beef Cubes

Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time45 minutes
Total Time55 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds beef cubes steer toward chuck or sirloin for best texture
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup tomatoes canned, crushed or diced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or a couple of fresh sprigs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: splash of Worcestershire or a pinch of chili flakes for heat

Instructions

  • Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy—flavor loves a good pile of seasoning.
  • Heat oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. You’re aiming for crust, not a stew of gray.
  • Remove browned beef and set aside. In the same pan, sauté the onion until translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until you can smell it. No burnt garlic—unless you’re into smoky bitterness, and nobody is.
  • Pour in beef broth and tomatoes. Stir in thyme and paprika. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the pan.
  • Return beef to the pan. Simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, until the beef is tender and the sauce thickens a bit. If you’re in a rush, crank the heat and reduce faster, but watch it so it doesn’t scorch.
  • Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and heat. If you want a glossy finish, whisk in a teaspoon of butter off the heat.