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Savory Beef Cube Casserole: Sedap Giler Comfort Food

Tender beef cubes braised in a rich, savory gravy, creating a deeply comforting casserole.

Janelle

By Janelle

Updated: January 18, 2026

Why I Love This Recipe

This Savory Beef Cube Casserole, or as we like to call it, 'Sedap Giler' (Malay for 'incredibly delicious'), is the epitome of comfort food. Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent, fall-apart beef, simmered in a flavorful broth with aromatic vegetables. It's a dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend gathering. This recipe elevates a classic casserole with a touch of red wine and dried thyme, adding a depth of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

  • •Unbelievably Tender Beef - Slow braising ensures each beef cube melts in your mouth.
  • •Deeply Savory Gravy - The combination of beef broth, red wine, and tomato paste creates a rich and complex sauce.
  • •Aromatic Vegetable Base - Onions, carrots, and celery contribute a subtle sweetness and earthy depth.
  • •One-Pot Wonder - This casserole is easy to make with minimal cleanup.
  • •Perfect for Meal Prep - The flavors develop even more over time, making it ideal for cooking ahead.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here's what you'll need – nothing too fancy, just good ingredients that work together beautifully.

  • 2 lbs Beef chuck (cut into 1-inch cubes)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 large Onion (chopped)
  • 2 medium Carrots (chopped)
  • 2 stalks Celery (chopped)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
  • 4 cups Beef broth (low sodium)
  • 1 cup Red wine (dry, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This low and slow cooking method is key to achieving incredibly tender beef.

    ~5 min

  2. 2

    Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. This initial seasoning is crucial for developing the overall flavor of the dish.

    ~5 min

  3. 3

    Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. You want the pot hot enough to sear the beef properly.

    ~2 min

  4. 4

    Sear the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Overcrowding will steam the beef instead of searing it, preventing a nice brown crust from forming. Sear each side for about 2-3 minutes, until browned.

    ~15 min

  5. 5

    Remove the seared beef from the pot and set aside. Leaving the beef aside allows the vegetables to cook in the rendered fat.

    ~2 min

  6. 6

    Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Softening the vegetables at this stage unlocks their sweetness and creates a flavorful base for the casserole.

    ~7 min

  7. 7

    Add the minced garlic and tomato paste to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Cooking the tomato paste intensifies its flavor and adds depth to the sauce.

    ~1 min

  8. 8

    Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze, loosening any browned bits. These browned bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the sauce.

    ~2 min

  9. 9

    Return the beef to the pot, then add the beef broth and dried thyme. Make sure the beef is mostly submerged in the broth; add more broth if needed.

    ~2 min

  10. 10

    Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the Dutch oven with a lid. Simmering before baking helps to distribute the flavors evenly.

    ~3 min

  11. 11

    Transfer the Dutch oven to the preheated oven and bake for 2 1/2 - 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. The longer it braises, the more tender the beef will become.

    ~150 min

  12. 12

    Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

    ~5 min

How Do I Know It's Ready?

The beef should be easily pierced with a fork and fall apart with minimal pressure. The sauce should be thickened and rich.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can. Sear the beef and sauté the vegetables as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Savory Beef Cube Casserole: Sedap Giler Comfort Food as much as I do! It's a wonderful dish that's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. If you try this recipe, I'd love to hear how it turned out – feel free to share your experience and any variations you tried!