Shaved Beef: The Best Guide for Cooking & Recipes (2025)

Shaved beef is a versatile and flavorful ingredient used in various global cuisines, from cheesesteaks to stir-fries. Whether you’re looking to cook a classic Philly cheesesteak, a rich Asian stir-fry, or a comforting beef sandwich, understanding how to handle and cook shaved beef is key.

This guide explores everything about shaved beef, including how it’s prepared, the best cooking methods, and the most delicious recipes to try.

Let’s dive into the world of shaved beef and discover how to make the most of this tender and delicious cut of meat.

What is Shaved Beef?

Definition and Characteristics

Shaved beef refers to thinly sliced beef, often cut against the grain for tenderness. It is commonly used in dishes that require quick cooking, such as stir-fries, cheesesteaks, and wraps.

Some key characteristics of shaved beef include:

• Paper-thin slices, usually 1-2mm thick.
• Quick cooking time—it takes just a few minutes to cook.
• High versatility—used in Asian, American, and European cuisines.
• Great for marinating—absorbs flavors well due to its thin texture.

Where Does Shaved Beef Come From?

Shaved beef is not a specific cut but a preparation style. It can be made from various cuts of beef, depending on the desired texture and flavor.

The most common cuts used for shaved beef include:

• Ribeye – Well-marbled and flavorful, perfect for cheesesteaks.
• Sirloin – Leaner but still tender when sliced thin.
• Top Round – More affordable but requires marinating for tenderness.

How is Shaved Beef Made?

To achieve the paper-thin slices, butchers use a few key techniques:

1. Partially Freezing the Meat – This firms up the beef, making it easier to slice.
2. Using a Sharp Knife or Meat Slicer – A professional deli slicer can achieve consistent thinness.
3. Slicing Against the Grain – Ensures a tender bite.

Shaved beef is commonly found pre-sliced in grocery stores, often labeled as “sandwich steak” or “shaved steak.” However, you can also prepare it at home using the right techniques.

How to Slice Beef for Shaving

Shaving beef at home requires the right cut and slicing technique to achieve thin, tender slices. Whether you’re making cheesesteaks, stir-fries, or sandwiches, knowing how to slice beef properly ensures the best texture and flavor.

Best Cuts for Shaved Beef

Not all cuts of beef work well for shaving. The best options are those that have a balance of tenderness and flavor, with enough fat for juiciness but not too much to make slicing difficult.

Here are the top choices for shaved beef:

👉 Best Overall Cut: Ribeye – It’s the most flavorful and tender choice!

Techniques for Thinly Slicing Beef

Shaving beef at home requires precision. Follow these steps to get the perfect thin slices:

1. The Freezing Method

• Place the beef in the freezer for 30–45 minutes until it is firm but not frozen solid.
• This makes slicing easier and helps achieve ultra-thin, even slices.

2. Using the Right Knife

• Use a very sharp chef’s knife with a long, thin blade.
• Always slice against the grain to keep the beef tender.

3. Using a Meat Slicer (For Perfect Slices)

• If you want restaurant-quality shaved beef, a deli-style meat slicer is your best option.
• Set the slicer to 1-2mm thickness for perfect thin slices.

4. Slicing Cooked vs. Raw Beef

• For raw shaved beef: Always freeze it slightly before slicing.
• For cooked shaved beef: Use a very sharp knife and slice as thinly as possible.

Best Cooking Methods for Shaved Beef

Shaved beef is prized for its quick cooking time and versatility. Because it’s sliced so thin, it requires high heat and short cooking times to retain its tenderness and juiciness. In this section, we’ll explore the best cooking methods to bring out the best flavors in shaved beef.

Pan-Searing for Maximum Flavor

Best for: Philly cheesesteaks, beef sandwiches, tacos

Pan-searing is one of the easiest ways to cook shaved beef, especially for recipes like cheesesteaks or beef sandwiches.

How to Pan-Sear Shaved Beef:

1. Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until very hot.
2. Add a little oil (vegetable or canola oil works best).
3. Spread the shaved beef evenly in the pan—don’t overcrowd it.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef browns.
5. Season as desired and remove from heat immediately.

🔥 Pro Tip: Use a cast-iron skillet for the best sear and caramelization.

Stir-Frying for Asian-Inspired Dishes

Best for: Beef stir-fry, Korean bulgogi, Mongolian beef

Stir-frying shaved beef allows it to cook quickly while absorbing sauces and seasonings.

How to Stir-Fry Shaved Beef:

1. Marinate the beef for 15-30 minutes in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger.
2. Heat a wok or large pan over high heat.
3. Add a small amount of oil and swirl to coat the pan.
4. Stir-fry the beef for 1-2 minutes, moving it constantly to cook evenly.
5. Add vegetables, sauces, and seasonings as needed.

🔥 Pro Tip: Marinating shaved beef before stir-frying enhances its flavor and tenderness.

Slow-Cooking for Extra Tenderness

Best for: Beef sandwiches, shredded beef tacos

While shaved beef is usually cooked quickly, slow cooking is a great method for certain dishes like French dip sandwiches or braised beef tacos.

How to Slow-Cook Shaved Beef:

1. Place shaved beef in a slow cooker or instant pot.
2. Add broth, onions, garlic, and seasonings.
3. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Shred the beef and serve in sandwiches or over rice.

🔥 Pro Tip: Adding a bit of acidity (vinegar or tomatoes) helps break down the meat for extra tenderness.

Grilling for a Smoky Flavor

Best for: Korean BBQ, shaved beef wraps

Grilling shaved beef over high heat gives it a smoky, charred flavor. This method is popular for Korean bulgogi and grilled beef wraps.

How to Grill Shaved Beef:

1. Marinate the beef in soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Cook shaved beef for 30-60 seconds per side, flipping quickly.
4. Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or lettuce wraps.

🔥 Pro Tip: Use a grill pan or skewers to prevent small pieces from falling through the grates.

Choosing the Best Cooking Method for Your Recipe

🔥 Pro Tip: For the best texture, avoid overcooking shaved beef—it only needs a few minutes on high heat to cook perfectly!

Most Popular Shaved Beef Dishes

Shaved beef is used in a wide variety of cuisines around the world, from classic American sandwiches to Asian stir-fries and slow-cooked delicacies. Here are some of the most popular dishes that highlight the versatility and deliciousness of shaved beef.

1. Philly Cheesesteak – The Classic American Sandwich

Origin: Philadelphia, USA
Flavor Profile: Savory, cheesy, rich

The Philly cheesesteak is perhaps the most famous shaved beef dish. Made with thinly sliced ribeye, caramelized onions, and melted cheese on a hoagie roll, it’s a must-try for beef lovers.

How to Make a Classic Philly Cheesesteak:

1. Heat a pan and cook shaved beef until browned.
2. Add sautéed onions, peppers, and mushrooms (optional).
3. Melt provolone or American cheese on top.
4. Load everything onto a soft hoagie roll.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

🔥 Pro Tip: Use ribeye for the juiciest, most flavorful cheesesteak.

2. Shaved Beef Stir-Fry – Quick & Flavorful

Origin: China, Korea, Japan
Flavor Profile: Savory, umami, slightly sweet

Stir-fried shaved beef is a staple in Asian cuisine, commonly found in dishes like Mongolian beef, Korean bulgogi, and Japanese gyudon.

How to Make a Simple Beef Stir-Fry:

1. Marinate shaved beef in soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar for 30 minutes.
2. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat.
3. Add a little oil, then quickly stir-fry the beef for 1-2 minutes.
4. Toss in vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli.
5. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.

🔥 Pro Tip: A hot wok and quick cooking time keep the beef tender and flavorful.

3. Korean Bulgogi – Sweet & Savory BBQ Beef

Origin: Korea
Flavor Profile: Sweet, smoky, savory

Bulgogi is a Korean-style grilled beef dish made with shaved ribeye marinated in a sweet and garlicky soy sauce.

How to Make Bulgogi:

1. Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and pear juice for the marinade.
2. Marinate shaved beef for at least 1 hour (overnight is best).
3. Grill on high heat for 30-60 seconds per side.
4. Serve with rice, kimchi, and lettuce wraps.

🔥 Pro Tip: Adding pear juice or kiwi puree helps break down the meat fibers for extra tenderness.

4. French Dip Sandwich – Juicy & Flavorful

Origin: United States (Los Angeles)
Flavor Profile: Rich, meaty, slightly salty

A French dip sandwich is made with shaved beef served on a toasted baguette with a side of au jus (beef broth for dipping).

How to Make a French Dip Sandwich:

1. Slow-cook shaved beef in beef broth, onions, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Toast a French baguette and load it with beef.
3. Serve with a side of au jus for dipping.

🔥 Pro Tip: A slow cooker makes this dish even easier and more flavorful

5. Shaved Beef Tacos – A Mexican Twist

Origin: Mexico
Flavor Profile: Spicy, smoky, tangy

Tacos made with shaved beef are quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or party meal.

How to Make Shaved Beef Tacos:

1. Season shaved beef with chili powder, cumin, garlic, and lime juice.
2. Cook in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes.
3. Serve in warm corn or flour tortillas.
4. Top with onions, cilantro, salsa, and avocado.

🔥 Pro Tip: For extra smoky flavor, grill the shaved beef instead of pan-frying.

6. Beef Shawarma – Middle Eastern Street Food

Origin: Middle East
Flavor Profile: Warm, spiced, slightly tangy

Shawarma is a slow-roasted, spiced shaved beef dish served in pita bread with garlic sauce and pickled vegetables.

How to Make Beef Shawarma:

1. Marinate shaved beef in yogurt, garlic, cumin, paprika, and lemon juice.
2. Cook in a skillet or on a grill until crispy.
3. Serve in pita bread with hummus, tahini, and veggies.

🔥 Pro Tip: Cooking on high heat until slightly crispy gives the beef the best texture.

Which Shaved Beef Dish Should You Try First?

🔥 Pro Tip: If you’re new to cooking shaved beef, start with Philly cheesesteaks or beef stir-fry—they’re easy and delicious!

Is Shaved Beef Tough?

Shaved beef can be incredibly tender and flavorful when prepared and cooked correctly. However, if not handled properly, it can become tough and chewy. In this section, we’ll explore what affects the tenderness of shaved beef and how to ensure it stays juicy and soft.

Factors That Affect the Tenderness of Shaved Beef

Several factors determine whether shaved beef turns out tender or tough. Here are the key elements to consider:

1. The Cut of Meat Used

• Tender cuts (like ribeye and sirloin) naturally stay tender, even when shaved.
• Lean cuts (like top round and brisket) can be tougher and require extra care, such as marinating or slow cooking.

2. Slicing Technique

• Slicing against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making the beef softer.
• Slicing with the grain leaves long muscle fibers intact, which can make the meat chewy.

3. Cooking Method

• Quick cooking (stir-frying, searing, grilling) keeps shaved beef tender.
• Overcooking makes the meat dry and tough.
• Slow cooking (braising, stewing) can help break down tougher cuts for a fall-apart texture.

How to Ensure Shaved Beef is Tender

1. Marinate the Beef

Marinating shaved beef before cooking helps break down muscle fibers, adding flavor and tenderness.

✔ Best Marinades for Tenderizing Shaved Beef:

• Soy Sauce & Vinegar (great for stir-fry)
• Lemon Juice & Olive Oil (perfect for shawarma)
• Beer or Red Wine (adds deep flavor for slow-cooked dishes)
• Buttermilk or Yogurt (softens the beef for grilling or roasting)

🔥 Pro Tip: Marinate for at least 30 minutes (overnight is best for tougher cuts).

2. Cook It Quickly Over High Heat

Since shaved beef is so thin, it cooks in just 1-2 minutes. Overcooking will cause it to dry out and become tough.

✔ Best Quick-Cooking Methods:

• Stir-frying (ideal for Asian dishes)
• Searing (great for cheesesteaks and tacos)
• Grilling (best for bulgogi and BBQ)

🔥 Pro Tip: Use a hot pan or grill—this locks in juices and prevents overcooking.

3. Slice the Beef Properly

✔ Always slice against the grain—this shortens the muscle fibers and ensures a tender bite.

How to tell the grain direction:

• Look for the lines of muscle fibers in the meat.
• Slice perpendicular to those lines for maximum tenderness.

🔥 Pro Tip: If slicing at home, partially freeze the meat for 30-45 minutes to make thin slicing easier.

4. Choose the Right Cooking Method for the Cut

🔥 Pro Tip: If using a lean cut, add extra fat (butter or oil) while cooking to prevent dryness.

What is Undercut Beef?

The term “undercut beef” is often used in different ways depending on the region. In many places, it refers to a highly tender cut of beef, often associated with the tenderloin. But how does it compare to shaved beef? Let’s explore.

Definition of Undercut Beef

✔ Undercut beef is a premium, tender cut of beef, often referring to the tenderloin.
✔ It is very lean with little fat and is known for its buttery soft texture.
✔ It’s commonly used in filet mignon, steak medallions, and beef Wellington.

🔥 Fun Fact: In some regions, “undercut” is simply another name for tenderloin beef, which is one of the most expensive cuts of meat.

Undercut Beef vs. Shaved Beef

🔥 Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth steak, go for undercut beef (tenderloin). But if you want versatility and bold flavor, shaved beef is the better choice.

Is Undercut Beef Good for Shaving?

While undercut beef is very tender, it’s not the best choice for making shaved beef for a few reasons:

• It lacks marbling (fat), so it can dry out quickly when sliced too thin.
• It’s expensive, so it’s not ideal for everyday shaved beef recipes.
• It’s best suited for whole steak preparations, rather than quick-cook dishes.

🔥 Best Alternative for Shaved Beef? If you want a tender but flavorful alternative, go for ribeye or sirloin instead of undercut beef.

When Should You Use Undercut Beef Instead of Shaved Beef?

✔ Use undercut beef (tenderloin) for:

• Filet mignon
• Beef medallions
• Grilled steaks
• Elegant dishes like beef Wellington

✔ Use shaved beef for:

• Philly cheesesteaks
• Stir-fries
• Tacos
• Sandwiches

🔥 Final Verdict: Undercut beef is luxurious and buttery, but shaved beef is more versatile and budget-friendly!

What is the Difference Between Tenderloin and Undercut Beef?

Many people use the terms “tenderloin” and “undercut beef” interchangeably, but are they actually the same thing? In this section, we’ll break down their differences and clarify when to use each term.

What is Tenderloin?

✔ Tenderloin is one of the most tender and lean cuts of beef.
✔ It comes from the loin section of the cow, located near the spine.
✔ It is often used to make filet mignon, Chateaubriand, and beef Wellington.
✔ It has very little fat and a buttery texture, making it one of the most expensive cuts.

🔥 Fun Fact: The tenderloin is so tender because it comes from a muscle that cows rarely use, keeping it soft and delicate.

What is Undercut Beef?

✔ Undercut beef is another name for tenderloin in many regions, especially in South Asia and the Middle East.
✔ It refers to the same tender, lean cut of beef.
✔ Some butchers may use the term “undercut” for other lean cuts, but most commonly, it means tenderloin.

🔥 In short: Undercut = Tenderloin in most cases.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Tenderloin vs. Undercut Beef

🔥 Final Verdict: Tenderloin and undercut beef are the same in most cases! If you see “undercut beef” at a butcher shop, it likely refers to the tenderloin.

Why is it Called Kobe Beef?

Kobe beef is one of the most luxurious and highly prized types of beef in the world. But what makes it so special, and why is it called Kobe beef? In this section, we’ll explore its origins, unique characteristics, and how it compares to regular shaved beef.

What is Kobe Beef?

✔ Kobe beef is a type of Wagyu beef that comes from Tajima cattle raised in the Hyogo Prefecture of Japan.
✔ It is famous for its intense marbling, which gives it a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
✔ Authentic Kobe beef must meet strict Japanese government regulations to earn the Kobe name.

🔥 Fun Fact: Only about 3,000 heads of cattle per year qualify as certified Kobe beef, making it extremely rare and expensive.

Why is it Called “Kobe” Beef?

The name “Kobe” comes from Kobe, Japan, the capital of Hyogo Prefecture, where this specific type of Wagyu beef originates.

✔ Only cattle raised and slaughtered in this region under strict guidelines can be officially called Kobe beef.
✔ Any Wagyu beef raised outside Hyogo Prefecture cannot be legally labeled as Kobe beef.

🔥 Pro Tip: If you see “Kobe-style beef” outside Japan, it’s likely regular Wagyu beef, not real Kobe beef.

How is Kobe Beef Different from Regular Shaved Beef?

🔥 Final Verdict: Kobe beef is an ultra-premium meat, while shaved beef is a cooking style that can use various beef cuts.

FAQs About Shaved Beef

Before we wrap up, let’s address some frequently asked questions about shaved beef. Whether you’re wondering about its texture, different names, or how it compares to other cuts, we’ve got you covered!

1. What is Shaved Beef?

✔ Shaved beef is thinly sliced beef, usually cut against the grain for maximum tenderness.
✔ It is commonly used in cheesesteaks, stir-fries, tacos, and sandwiches.
✔ You can find it pre-sliced at grocery stores or slice it at home using a sharp knife or meat slicer.

2. What is Shaved Raw Beef Called?

✔ Shaved raw beef is often called Carpaccio in Italian cuisine.
✔ In Japanese cuisine, thin slices of raw beef are used in Tataki or Sukiyaki.
✔ For Korean BBQ, shaved beef is known as Bulgogi when marinated and grilled.

🔥 Pro Tip: If serving shaved raw beef, make sure it’s high-quality and safe for raw consumption.

3. Is Shaved Beef Tough?

✔ It depends on the cut and how it’s cooked!
✔ Tender cuts like ribeye or sirloin will be naturally soft and juicy.
✔ Tougher cuts (top round, brisket) may require marinating or slow cooking for best results.

🔥 Best way to keep shaved beef tender? Cook it quickly over high heat or slow-cook tougher cuts.

4. What is Undercut Beef?

✔ Undercut beef is another name for the tenderloin, one of the most tender and expensive cuts of beef.
✔ It is not typically used for shaved beef because it has very little fat and is best for steaks.

🔥 Pro Tip: If you want a tender alternative for shaved beef, use ribeye instead of undercut beef.

5. What is the Difference Between Tenderloin and Undercut Beef?

✔ They are the same cut in most cases!
✔ “Undercut” is a term used in South Asia and the Middle East to refer to the tenderloin.
✔ Tenderloin is best for filet mignon, medallions, and roasting, not for shaved beef dishes.

🔥 Final Verdict: If a recipe calls for “undercut beef,” you can substitute tenderloin or another lean, tender cut.

6. Why is it Called Kobe Beef?

✔ Kobe beef comes from Tajima cattle raised in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan.
✔ It is highly regulated and famous for its extreme marbling.
✔ Real Kobe beef is rare and expensive—most “Kobe-style” beef outside Japan is regular Wagyu.

🔥 Pro Tip: If you want rich marbling in shaved beef recipes, try American Wagyu or marbled ribeye instead of real Kobe beef.

Final Thoughts

Shaved beef is a versatile, flavorful ingredient that can be used in countless dishes. Whether you’re making a cheesesteak, stir-fry, or tacos, knowing the right cut, slicing method, and cooking technique will ensure the best taste and texture.

We’ve covered everything you need to know about shaved beef, from choosing the right cut to cooking it perfectly. Now, it’s time to experiment with new recipes and enjoy the rich flavors of shaved beef in your favorite dishes!

For more delicious beef recipes, check out Treasure Recipe !