15 Delicious Recipes to Make with Beef Chunks

Beef chunks are a versatile and budget-friendly cut of meat that can be used to make a variety of delicious family meals. With just a few simple ingredients, beef chunks can be transformed into tender stews flavorful skillet dishes hearty casseroles and more. Whether you have some extra beef chunks in the fridge or picked some up from the store, read on for 15 amazing recipes to make with this protein-packed staple.

What are Beef Chunks?

First, let’s clarify exactly what beef chunks are Beef chunks, sometimes labeled as stew meat, refer to cuts of beef that have been cubed into 1-2 inch pieces. Common cuts used for beef chunks include chuck roast, bottom round, brisket and flank steak The small, uniform pieces allow the meat to cook quickly and evenly while also absorbing flavors well. Beef chunks work great in dishes like stews, curries, kebabs, stir fries and more.

When working with fresh beef chunks, it’s important to pat them dry before cooking to help them brown nicely. Generously season the meat with salt and pepper. Quickly searing the chunks on all sides in a skillet will seal in moisture and build fond for making pan sauces later on. Now let’s explore some of the many possibilities for using beef chunks!

Top 15 Beef Chunk Recipes

1. Beef Stew

Rich and comforting beef stew is a classic dish for cubed beef chunks. Slowly simmer the meat with potatoes, carrots and onions in red wine or broth. The long cooking time breaks down the beef into tender, fall-apart pieces in a thick, flavorful gravy.

2. Beef Chili

Ground beef may be traditional, but using cubed chunks instead gives this chili a fun texture and hearty bite. Brown the chunks first for extra flavor. Then simmer with beans, tomatoes, chili powder and seasonings until thick. Top with your favorite fixings.

3. Beef and Broccoli

For a quick weeknight stir-fry, marinate beef chunks in soy sauce, oil and cornstarch. Then stir-fry with broccoli, garlic and ginger. Toss everything in an oyster sauce mixture and serve over rice for an easy dinner.

4. Beef Stroganoff

Transform beef chunks into a rich creamy stroganoff in no time. Cook the beef in mushroom soup, sour cream onions and mushrooms. Serve over buttered egg noodles for a comforting classic.

5. Beef Kebabs

Load seasoned beef chunks onto skewers with your favorite veggies for easy grilled kebabs. The small pieces ensure quick, even cooking on the barbecue. Experiment with global marinades like Greek, chimichurri or teriyaki.

6. Beef Curry

Marinating beef chunks in curry powder, garlic and spices infuses them with big flavor. Brown the meat, then simmer in coconut milk with potatoes and peas for an easy homemade curry. Serve with rice, naan and mango chutney.

7. Beef Teriyaki

Quickly sauté beef chunks with broccoli in a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce. The chunks absorb the sweet, salty flavor as they caramelize. Serve over steamed rice for an easy weeknight dinner.

8. Beef Lettuce Wraps

Sauté beef chunks in a skillet with mushrooms, water chestnuts and soy sauce. Spoon the filling into lettuce leaves and top with peanuts and hoisin for fresh, fun finger food.

9. Beef and Potato Soup

Simmer beef chunks and potatoes in seasoned broth for a hearty soup ready in under an hour. Adding frozen peas, carrots and corn rounds it out. Top bowls with shredded cheese and croutons.

10. Beef Tacos

Ground beef is common, but cubed chunks make flavorful, textured taco filling too. Fold into warmed tortillas with all your favorite toppings like cabbage, queso fresco, pico and avocado.

11. Beef and Mushroom Soup

Transform beef chunks into an easy homemade soup by braising them in broth with mushrooms and onions. Finish with cream or milk to make it extra rich and creamy. Enjoy with crusty bread.

12. Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Quickly sauté beef chunks in bulgogi marinade for a Korean-inspired meal. Serve over rice with kimchi, fried egg and scallions for a savory, satisfying bowl.

13. Beef Enchiladas

Usually made with ground beef, cubed chunks make hearty, meaty enchilada filling. Stuff tortillas with the beef, beans, cheese and enchilada sauce. Bake until hot and melted for an easy baked dish.

14. Beef Negimaki

For an appetizer, wrap beef chunks with scallions, then quickly sear in sesame oil. The scallions infuse the beef with flavor. Slice and serve with dipping sauce for a fun finger food.

15. Beef Bourguignon

This French stew features beef braised in red wine with pearl onions, bacon and mushrooms. Using chunks instead of a larger roast makes this restaurant favorite more approachable for home cooks.

Cooking Tips for Beef Chunks

• Pat beef chunks dry before cooking to help them brown nicely.

• Generously season the meat with salt and pepper.

• Quickly sear chunks on all sides to seal in moisture and flavor.

• Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

• Simmer low and slow in broth or wine to braise chunks into tenderness.

• Add aromatics like garlic and herbs towards the end to keep their flavors fresh.

Satisfying Family Meals with Beef Chunks

From stews and tacos to skewers and stir fries, beef chunks are endlessly versatile for making delicious family dinners. Their meaty texture and rich flavor transform into something special when slowly simmered into tender perfection. Whatever cuisine you’re craving, beef chunks likely have a place in it. Keep this protein-packed staple on hand for satisfying meals on busy weeknights or comforting dishes on the weekend.