Extra Beef Recipe

Prepare beef

Pat both the ground beef and the cubed chuck dry with paper towels. Season both lightly with 3/4 tsp of the kosher salt and 1/2 tsp of the black pepper, reserving remaining seasoning for later.

Brown cubed chuck

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add 1 tbs olive oil. Add the cubed chuck in a single layer (work in batches if necessary) and leave undisturbed for 2–3 minutes to get a good sear. Stir and continue browning until cubes are nicely browned all over, about 4–5 more minutes. Transfer browned cubes to a plate and set aside.

Cook ground beef

Wipe the pan if there is excessive residue, then return to medium-high heat. Add remaining 1 tbs olive oil, then add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and let it brown without crowding the pan, about 4–6 minutes, until no longer pink and some caramelized bits form. Season while cooking with remaining 1/4 tsp kosher salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper.

Sauté aromatics

Push the browned ground beef to one side of the skillet or transfer briefly to a bowl. Reduce heat to medium, add 1 tbs butter to the empty side of the pan. Add diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

Combine and season

Return any pushed beef to the full pan if separated. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1–2 minutes to let flavors meld, scraping up brown bits from the bottom of the pan.

Deglaze and finish

Pour in 1/2 cup beef broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape any fond from the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer and let reduce for 2–3 minutes so the mixture is saucy but not soupy. Return the browned chuck cubes to the skillet, toss briefly to coat and heat through, about 1–2 minutes.

Adjust seasoning and garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning with remaining salt or pepper as needed. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon juice if using. Remove from heat and let rest 2 minutes before serving.