Fast and Easy Beef Cuts for Weeknight Dinners

We’ve all been there: it’s late, you’re hungry, and spending hours in the kitchen doesn’t seem appealing. 

You're in the right place if you love beef but want something quick and easy for weeknight dinners. 

The key to making your evenings stress-free lies in choosing the right cuts of beef that cook up fast and still taste delicious. Ready to learn about beef cuts that’ll transform your weeknight meals? Let’s get into it!

Why Beef is a Great Option for Weeknight Dinners

Beef is a staple in many households, and for good reason. It's packed with protein, essential vitamins, and minerals that support overall health. But beef isn’t just nutritious; it’s also incredibly versatile. 

Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty steak or a comforting ground beef dish, there’s a cut to suit every taste. When you're in a rush, beef can be a lifesaver – especially if you know which cuts to choose. 

Opting for quick-cooking beef cuts ensures you don’t spend too much time in the kitchen, making it perfect for busy nights. From stir-fries to tacos, you can have a flavour-packed meal ready in no time.

Top Beef Cuts for Fast and Easy Weeknight Dinners

The right cut of beef can transform your weeknight meals into something delicious and effortless. These are some of the top beef cuts that’ll save you time while delivering mouthwatering results!

1. Beef Mince

Beef mince is the most convenient option for a fast weeknight dinner. It cooks quickly and is incredibly versatile. From spaghetti Bolognese to tacos and burgers, the options are endless. 

Beef mince takes just minutes to brown, making it ideal for anyone who needs to throw together a meal quickly. It's also great for batch cooking and can be stored for future meals, saving you even more time during the week.

2. Eye Fillet (Tenderloin)

Eye fillet is one of the most tender cuts of beef, known for its delicate texture and rich flavour. While it’s a bit more expensive, its quick cooking time makes it a fantastic choice for a weeknight treat. 

After a few minutes on a hot pan or grill, you’ll have a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth steak. It’s perfect for serving with a simple side salad or roasted vegetables, offering a luxurious meal in no time. Eye fillet is the way to go if you're after a quick yet indulgent dinner.

3. Rump Steak

Rump steak is another quick-cooking favourite. It’s tender, flavourful, and relatively lean, making it an excellent option for those looking for something hearty but not overly fatty. 

It’s perfect for a speedy meal, whether grilling it, pan-frying, or even slicing it for a steak sandwich or fajitas. With just 5–6 minutes of cooking time, rump steak is ideal when you're short on time but still want a satisfying meal.

4. Wagyu Steak

Wagyu is renowned for its marbling and tenderness, making it a luxurious choice for a quick yet decadent dinner. A few minutes on the grill or in a hot pan will give you a rich, juicy steak that melts in your mouth. 

Though it's a bit pricier, the flavour and tenderness make it worth the investment when you're craving something indulgent but still quick.

5. Scotch Fillet

Scotch fillet is another great choice for a quick and tasty dinner. Known for its balance of tenderness and flavour, it cooks in 5–6 minutes per side, whether on the grill or in a pan. 

This cut is perfect for those who want something hearty yet quick, with a rich, juicy texture that pairs well with roasted or steamed vegetables.

6. Porterhouse

Porterhouse offers the best of both worlds: tender fillet and a flavourful strip steak. Ideal for grilling or pan-searing, a porterhouse takes only minutes to cook. Its rich flavour and satisfying texture make it perfect for a weeknight meal when you want something that feels special without the extra effort.

7. Rib Eye

Rib Eye is a classic steak full of flavour thanks to its marbling. It’s a fantastic option for a quick meal as it cooks beautifully on the grill or in a pan in just a few minutes. Whether enjoying it as a simple steak or slicing it for a sandwich or salad, rib eye delivers unbeatable flavour in minimal time.

8. Chuck Roll (in a Slow Cooker)

Chuck roll is a larger, boneless cut from the shoulder that’s perfect for slow cooking. Though it takes longer to cook, it becomes incredibly tender and flavoured when braised or roasted slowly. Simply toss the chuck roll into the slow cooker with vegetables, herbs, and seasoning, and let it cook for several hours. 

You’ll have a rich, hearty meal with minimal effort by the end of the day. It's an ideal choice for a comforting, hands-off dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

How to Cook Beef Cuts Quickly Without Losing Flavor

Want to cook beef quickly without losing that rich, tender flavour? The secret lies in mastering a few key techniques. Here’s how to get it right every time:

• Avoid overcrowding the pan: Giving each piece of beef space ensures even cooking and helps achieve a perfect sear.
• Use high heat: Whether grilling or pan-searing, a preheated pan or grill gives your beef the right amount of heat to lock in juices and create a tasty crust.
• Rest your meat: Once cooked, let your beef rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your steak tender and juicy.
• Marinate tougher cuts: For cuts like flank steak, marinate for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderise the meat and infuses it with flavour, making it quicker to cook.
• Keep an eye on the clock: Overcooking beef will make it dry and tough. Aim for medium-rare or medium doneness for a perfectly juicy meal every time.

Simple and Delicious Weeknight Recipes Using These Beef Cuts

Now that you know which beef cuts are best for quick and easy dinners, here are some simple recipes to help you make the most of them. These dishes are perfect for a busy evening, ensuring you get a delicious meal with minimal effort.

1. Beef Mince Spaghetti Bolognese

A classic favourite, spaghetti Bolognese made with beef mince is a weeknight winner. Brown the beef mince in a pan, add chopped onions, garlic, and a can of crushed tomatoes. Simmer for 15 minutes, season with herbs, and serve over pasta. Top with Parmesan, and you have a comforting meal in under 30 minutes.

2. Eye Fillet Steak with Roasted Veggies

Season eye fillet steaks with salt, pepper, and olive oil for a more indulgent yet quick meal. Sear them in a hot pan for 2–3 minutes per side for a perfect medium-rare finish. Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and asparagus for a simple but luxurious dinner.

3. Rump Steak Fajitas

Rump steak is perfect for fajitas. Slice the steak thinly against the grain, then pan-fry with sliced bell peppers and onions. Add fajita seasoning and serve with soft tortillas, salsa, and sour cream. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a flavour-packed meal that the whole family will love.

4. Wagyu Steak with Garlic Butter

Wagyu is ideal for a quick and decadent meal. Season the steak with salt and pepper, then sear in a hot pan for 3–4 minutes per side. Top with homemade garlic butter for an extra touch of flavour. Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or roasted potatoes for a simple yet indulgent dinner.

5. Scotch Fillet Steak Sandwiches

For a speedy and filling dinner, cook scotch fillet steaks to your desired doneness, then slice thinly. Pile the steak onto toasted bread with caramelised onions, cheese, and your choice of sauces. These sandwiches make a quick and satisfying dinner in under 15 minutes.

6. Porterhouse Steak Stir-Fry

Porterhouse is perfect for a stir-fry. Slice the steak thinly and stir-fry with vegetables like snap peas, carrots, and bell peppers. Add soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of honey for extra flavour. This stir-fry is ready in under 15 minutes and can be served with rice or noodles.

7. Rib Eye Steak with Sweet Potato Fries

Season rib-eye steaks with salt and pepper for a simple yet delicious dinner, then sear them in a hot pan for 4–5 minutes per side. Serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries and a green salad for a hearty and satisfying meal.

8. Slow Cooker Chuck Roll Pot Roast

For a hearty, comforting meal that requires little effort, chuck roll is your best friend. Toss the chuck roll, chopped vegetables, and broth into the slow cooker in the morning, set it to low, and let it cook for 6–8 hours. 

You’ll have a rich, tender pot roast ready to serve by dinner. It’s perfect for a busy day when you don’t want to spend much time in the kitchen.

How to Choose the Right Beef Cut for Your Weeknight Dinner

Choosing the right beef cut can make or break your weeknight dinner. To ensure you get the perfect meal every time, consider these key factors:

• Consider your available time: If you're short on time, opt for cuts like sirloin, rump, or minute steaks. These cook in minutes and are perfect for quick meals without sacrificing taste.
• Decide on your desired flavour: If you’re craving something heartier, chuck steak in the slow cooker is a great option. Though it requires more prep time, it delivers a rich, flavourful result.
• Consider tenderness vs robustness: Tender cuts like eye fillet offer a delicate texture, while cuts like flank steak provide a more robust flavour. Choose based on what fits your mood and time constraints.
• Consider dietary preferences: For those looking for a leaner, lower-fat option, cuts like sirloin or rump are ideal. On the other hand, fattier cuts like chuck steak offer deeper flavours that can make your meal extra satisfying.

Beef Buying Tips for Busy Weeknights

Consider buying pre-portioned or pre-cut beef from your local butcher or supermarket to make beef dinners even easier. This saves time on prep and ensures you’re always ready to cook. Select cuts like rump that freeze well if you prefer to buy in bulk. 

Be sure to store your beef correctly to avoid waste – freezing portions ahead of time can make your weeknights even quicker. Look for sales or discounts on popular cuts, especially when buying in bulk. With proper preparation and shopping strategy, beef will always be a reliable weeknight dinner choice.

Conclusion

Beef doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. You can create quick, easy, and delicious meals by choosing the right cuts in no time. Whether you’re after a juicy steak or a comforting stew, there’s a beef cut for every weeknight. 

Next time you need a hassle-free dinner, turn to Carnivore Society for high-quality beef that makes cooking even easier.