Tender Beef Chunks: Easy Flavorful Delight

Why You’ll Love Tender Beef Chunks Recipe

This recipe strikes a beautiful balance between simplicity and depth of flavor. Most of the cooking time is hands‑off, so once things are in the oven, you can relax (or prepare sides). The beef becomes melt‑in‑your‑mouth tender, and the sauce develops rich, savory notes that pair with many side dishes. It’s a cozy, satisfying meal that works for both casual dinners and more special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• About 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1‑inch cubes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• (Optional, for thickening) 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 325 °F (160 °C).

2. In an oven‑safe pot or Dutch oven over medium‑high heat, add the olive oil. Sear the beef chunks (seasoned with salt and pepper) in batches until browned on all sides. Do not overcrowd. Remove beef and set aside.

3. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook about 1 more minute until fragrant.

4. Return beef to the pot. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; stir gently to combine. Bring to a simmer.

5. Cover the pot with its lid and place in the preheated oven. Braise for about 2 to 2½ hours, or until beef is fork‑tender (i.e. meat pulls apart easily).

6. If a thicker sauce is desired, whisk together cornstarch and water and stir into the pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Servings and timing

• Yield: Serves about 4 to 6

• Prep time: ~15 minutes

• Cook time: ~2 to 2½ hours

• Total time: ~2 hours 30 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If sauce seems too thick or the beef a bit dry, add a splash of beef broth or water. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals.

For longer storage, allow the dish to cool, then freeze in a heavy‑duty freezer container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of beef to use?

Beef chuck roast is ideal because its marbling breaks down during slow cooking, yielding tender, flavorful meat. You could also try chuck shoulder or brisket, but results may vary in texture.

Can I use a slow cooker instead of oven braising?

Yes. After searing the beef and sautéing vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or until beef is tender.

How do I know when the beef is done?

Use a fork — if it slides in and out with little resistance and the meat pulls apart easily, it’s ready.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely. Potatoes, mushrooms, peas, or parsnips can be added partway through cooking to bulk up the dish.

Can I use red wine instead of some broth?

Yes. Replace half of the beef broth with a dry red wine for extra depth of flavor.

How thick should the sauce be?

That’s up to your preference. If you like a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry in the last 15 minutes; omit it for a looser gravy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes. It reheats well and often tastes even better the next day once flavors meld.

What should I serve it with?

Mashed potatoes, rice, buttered noodles, or crusty bread all work wonderfully. A simple green salad can help lighten the meal.

Can I reduce sodium for a low‑salt diet?

Use a low‑sodium beef broth and reduce or omit the added salt. Taste before adjusting.

How do I reheat without drying the meat?

Reheat gently, adding a bit of additional broth or water if the sauce has thickened or the beef seems dry.

Conclusion

These tender beef chunks deliver a comforting, flavourful meal with minimal fuss. With simple ingredients, a slow braise, and a rich sauce, this dish is both approachable and deeply satisfying. Serve it over potatoes, rice, or alongside bread, and enjoy a hearty meal perfect for any time of year.