Tender Beef Strips Recipe
Introduction
This Tender Beef Strips recipe delivers juicy, flavorful beef with a simple sear and optional savory gravy. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a protein-packed addition to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1 lb beef strips
- 1-2 Tbsp cooking oil (such as vegetable or another high smoke-point oil)
- 2 cups beef broth (optional for gravy)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and black pepper. If desired, add garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Step 2: Add the beef strips to the bowl and toss them to coat evenly with the flour mixture. Transfer the coated beef strips to a plate, shaking off any excess flour. Discard any leftover flour.
- Step 3: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cooking oil with a high smoke point. When the oil is hot and shimmering, arrange the beef strips in a single layer without crowding.
- Step 4: Let the beef sear undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a golden crust. Then flip the strips and cook, stirring often, for another 1 to 2 minutes or until the beef reaches your preferred level of doneness.
- Step 5 (optional): For a quick gravy, slowly pour in 2 cups of beef broth while stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to simmer until slightly thickened, coating the beef strips.
Tips & Variations
- For extra tenderness, choose beef cuts like sirloin or flank steak sliced thinly against the grain.
- Swap garlic powder for smoked paprika or onion powder for a different flavor profile.
- Serve the beef strips over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables to make a complete meal.
Storage
Store leftover beef strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave to avoid overcooking. If you made the gravy, stir well before reheating to restore its consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen beef strips for this recipe?
It’s best to use thawed beef strips for even cooking and proper searing. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before coating and cooking.
How do I prevent the beef from sticking to the pan?
Make sure the oil is hot before adding the beef, and avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps the beef sear properly instead of sticking. Also, don’t move the strips immediately; let them develop a crust first.
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Tender Beef Strips Recipe
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for tender beef strips coated in seasoned flour and pan-seared to perfection. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as is or transformed into a savory beef and gravy meal by adding beef broth for a rich, comforting sauce.
Ingredients
Seasoning Mix
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. black pepper
- 1 tsp. garlic powder (optional)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb. beef strips
- 1–2 Tbsp. cooking oil (vegetable or other high smoke point oil)
- 2 cups beef broth (optional, for gravy)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coating: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, and optional garlic powder. This seasoned flour will help create a flavorful crust on the beef strips.
- Coat the Beef: Add the beef strips to the bowl and toss to evenly coat them with the seasoned flour. Transfer the coated beef strips to a plate, shaking off any excess flour to avoid clumping. Discard any leftover flour remaining in the bowl.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 to 2 tablespoons of cooking oil with a high smoke point. Allow the oil to become very hot before adding the beef strips to ensure a good sear.
- Sear the Beef: Add the beef strips in a single layer to the hot skillet. Leave them undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a nice seared crust on the first side.
- Cook Through: Flip the beef strips over and cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes, stirring often, until they reach your desired level of doneness.
- Optional Gravy Preparation: For a quick beef and gravy dish, slowly pour in 2 cups of beef broth while stirring constantly. Simmer the mixture until the liquid thickens slightly to create a flavorful gravy.
Notes
- For best results, use beef strips that are evenly sized to ensure uniform cooking.
- The garlic powder is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor to the seasoning mix.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the skillet, as this can prevent proper searing and cause the beef to steam instead.
- Adjust salt according to your taste and dietary needs.
- Use a cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable or canola oil, for better searing.
- Leftover beef strips can be refrigerated and gently reheated, though they are best enjoyed fresh.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: beef strips, tender beef, seared beef, quick beef recipe, beef with gravy, skillet beef, dinner recipe
