Braised Cheddar Beef Cubes
A hearty braised beef dish with sharp cheddar, tomato sauce, and savory seasonings, perfect for comforting dinners and suitable for family gatherings or casual meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coat beef cubes with flour, salt, and pepper.
- Brown the coated beef cubes in Crisco in a large Dutch oven.
- Add bouillon cubes, tomato sauce, chopped onion, celery seed, and water to the meat.
- Cover and cook for 1 1/2 hours, stirring every 15 to 20 minutes.
- Add brown sugar and cook for an additional 20 minutes.
- Add cheese and mushrooms, then cook for 10 minutes more.
- Serve the braised beef over cooked noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef cubes in a combination of Crisco and butter. If you don't have sharp cheese, a medium cheddar can work as a substitute, though the flavor will be milder. To enhance the dish, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of garlic powder. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also be a delightful addition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the braised cheddar beef cubes over a bed of cooked egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad can add a nice contrast. This dish pairs beautifully with Busy Day Goulash Skillet for a hearty dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the beef on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it, covered, in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Braised Cheddar Beef Cubes contains roughly 653 calories, with 33g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 38g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (71% of the Daily Value), protein (66% of the Daily Value), and calcium (60% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2558mg per serving (111% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while beef is traditional for this braising method, you can substitute with pork or chicken. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will require less time to become tender, while pork may need a similar duration as beef.
What can I do if I don't have beef bouillon cubes?
If you don't have beef bouillon cubes, you can use beef broth or stock instead of water for a deeper flavor. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning accordingly since broths can be saltier than bouillon cubes.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
If the sauce is too thin after cooking, you can create a slurry with a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water, then stir it into the sauce while simmering until it thickens. Alternatively, you can let it reduce uncovered for a few more minutes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).