How To Make The Best Smothered Beef Recipe

beef broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon cubes

Vegetable broth can reduce sodium and calories.

butter

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier, while margarine is often cheaper.

flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: cornstarch

Cornstarch can thicken sauces without gluten.

beef steak

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: pork chops

Chicken is leaner, while pork can be more affordable.

Season the beef chuck with spices, mixing well and being liberal with the seasoning.

Allow the beef to marinate for up to 30 minutes if desired.

Sear the beef chuck on medium-high heat until browned on both sides, removing each batch as it's done to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

In the same skillet, sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.

Add 4 tablespoons of flour to the vegetables and cook until the white disappears from the flour.

Pour in 4 cups of water, adding it in two cups at a time, stirring until thickened.

Season the mixture with chicken bouillon powder and the spices used for the beef.

Return the seared beef to the skillet, including any juices from the plate.

Cover and cook on medium-low heat for about 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes to an hour.

After 2 hours, add fresh thyme, scallions, and butter, adjusting seasoning with more spices if needed.

Cover and let cook for an additional 15 minutes before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens