Hey there! It’s Callie, and I’m so excited to share this quick and easy recipe with you today: Steak Bites with Stew Meat. If you’re like me, juggling busy family life and a love for quick yet satisfying meals, then this one’s for you. This dish combines tender beef with simple yet delicious flavors, and it comes together faster than the time it takes my kids to decide on a cartoon. Plus, these steak bites are versatile enough to work as a main dish or even as a tasty snack for casual get-togethers. So, let’s dive right in!
If you’re interested in more quick meat recipes, you’ll love my Grilled Chicken Breasts with Lemon Garlic Marinade.
Why you’ll love this recipe
This recipe is an absolute lifesaver because it’s quick, simple, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just trying to put together a quick dinner, you’ll appreciate how little fuss this requires. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can turn ordinary stew meat into something sensational. Plus, this recipe is easy on the wallet. Using stew meat is a fantastic budget-friendly option, and you won’t believe how tender and tasty the results can be.
Honestly, I love making these steak bites when unexpected guests pop by. They always seem so impressed, and little do they know, it didn’t take me ages to whip up!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) stew meat (beef), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme), chopped for garnish
- Splash Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
Step-by-step instructions
Marinate the meat
Prepare the meat
Start by cutting the stew meat into bite-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches each so they cook evenly.
Make the marinade
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper. Optional additions: Worcestershire sauce, red pepper flakes, or onion powder.
Marinate
Toss the meat in the marinade, making sure every piece is coated. Cover and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate up to 2 hours.
Cook the steak bites
Sear the meat
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated meat in a single layer and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.
Cook evenly
Reduce heat and cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Garnish and serve
Transfer the steak bites to a serving platter, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve immediately.
Recipe tips & variations
For an extra hint of sweetness, drizzle honey or sprinkle some brown sugar in the marinade. It adds a delicious contrast to the savory soy sauce.
If you’re a spice lover, don’t skip the red pepper flakes. They add a slight kick that pairs beautifully with the garlic.
Feel free to swap out fresh herbs like parsley for whatever you have on hand. Thyme and rosemary are personal favorites of mine!
Storage & reheating
These steak bites with stew meat can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, or use the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Try to avoid the microwave if you can, as it can make the meat tough.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef?
Of course! While I stick to stew meat for budget reasons, any cut suited for quick cooking would work here.
Is marinating necessary if I’m short on time?
It’s highly recommended for flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, a quick 10-minute marinade is better than nothing.
Can this be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the meat up to a day ahead or even cook them in advance and reheat when needed.
How can I add more flavor?
Try experimenting with different herbs, adding a little lemon juice to the marinade, or topping with your favorite sauce for extra zest.
Recipes you may like
Love this recipe? You’ve got to try these:
- Delicious Healthy Apple Pie Oatmeal Cookies You’ll Crave
Hearty Beef Stroganoff with Stew Meat That Wows Every Time
I hope you enjoy making and devouring these delicious Steak Bites with Stew Meat! Don’t forget to share your thoughts or any creative tweaks you try—I’d love to hear from you!
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Steak Bites with Stew Meat
- Total Time: 20-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Quick and easy steak bites recipe using stew meat, packed with flavor and perfect for busy families.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) stew meat (beef), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme), chopped for garnish
- Splash Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
- 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the meat: Start by cutting the stew meat into bite-sized pieces. I aim for about 1 to 1.5 inches each because they cook more evenly.
- Make the marinade: In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper. If you’re feeling fancy, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a teaspoon of onion powder.
- Marinate: Toss your meat into the marinade, making sure every piece gets some love. Cover and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. Pro tip: If you’ve got the time, marinate it for up to 2 hours to really let those flavors sink in.
- Sear the meat: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated meat in a single layer. I like to hear that satisfying sizzle—it means you’re doing it right!
- Cook evenly: Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes until perfectly browned. Then, reduce the heat and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, transfer your steak bites to a serving platter and garnish with freshly chopped herbs. Serve immediately.
Notes
- For an extra hint of sweetness, drizzle honey or sprinkle some brown sugar in the marinade.
- If you’re a spice lover, don’t skip the red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to swap out fresh herbs like parsley for whatever you have on hand.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 servings
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg