Beef and Noodles

Beef and noodles is the ultimate comfort food, offering a hearty, savory dish that’s rich in flavor and satisfying to the core. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a comforting, home-cooked meal, this dish features tender beef simmered in a flavorful broth and tossed with soft, chewy noodles. With its roots in Midwestern American cuisine, beef and noodles has become a beloved classic across households for its simplicity and versatility. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a special family gathering, this recipe will deliver every time.

In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through creating this dish from scratch, including tips on how to achieve tender beef, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked noodles. We’ll also dive into variations, serving ideas, and storage tips to help you make this dish your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Beef and noodles is a classic dish that combines comforting flavors with easy preparation. The tender beef melts in your mouth, the noodles soak up the savory broth, and the seasonings add just the right touch of warmth. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully, and it’s endlessly customizable, allowing you to add vegetables, change the type of noodles, or experiment with different spices. Whether you’re looking to impress your family or indulge in a cozy dinner for one, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes simmering time for the beef)
• Total time: 2 hours 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: About 1 1/2 cups

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Beef and Broth:

• 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups beef broth or stock
• 1 cup water (optional, for adjusting consistency)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for umami flavor)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For the Noodles:

• 3 cups egg noodles (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional, for added richness)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Pat the beef cubes dry with a paper towel (this helps them brown better) and season them lightly with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding, cooking until each side is browned, about 3–4 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the diced onion. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

3. Deglaze the Pot

Pour in a splash of beef broth or water, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits (this is where much of the flavor comes from).

4. Simmer the Beef

Return the seared beef to the pot. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce (if using), thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally and add water if the liquid reduces too much.

5. Cook the Noodles

About 15 minutes before the beef is done, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and toss them with butter if desired.

6. Combine Beef and Noodles

Once the beef is tender, taste the broth and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Stir in the cooked noodles and let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

7. Serve

Ladle the beef and noodles into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Ingredient Background

Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for beef and noodles because it becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked, absorbing the flavors of the broth.

Beef Broth: A rich broth is essential for the savory flavor of this dish. Opt for low-sodium beef broth to control the saltiness, or make your own for maximum depth.

Egg Noodles: These classic noodles have the perfect texture to soak up the broth and complement the tender beef. Homemade egg noodles add an extra touch of authenticity.

Worcestershire Sauce: This adds depth and umami, enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Smoked Paprika: A subtle smoky undertone brings warmth and complexity to the broth.

Technique Tips

1. Sear the Beef Properly: Don’t skip this step! Searing creates a caramelized crust that adds depth of flavor to the dish.
2. Simmer Low and Slow: Cooking the beef at a low temperature for a longer time ensures it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
3. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook them until just al dente to avoid mushy noodles when they’re combined with the broth.
4. Deglaze Thoroughly: Scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate maximum flavor into the broth.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

1. Casserole Style: Layer the beef and noodles in a baking dish, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
2. Soup Version: Add extra broth and diced vegetables like carrots and celery to create a hearty beef noodle soup.
3. Bread Bowl: Serve the beef and noodles inside a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl for a rustic presentation.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use Fresh Herbs: Add a sprig of thyme or rosemary to the broth while simmering for added flavor.
• Make It Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Store it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Sear the beef in batches to ensure proper browning.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetable-Packed: Add diced carrots, celery, and peas for a nutrient boost.
2. Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a creamy broth.
3. Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles or serve the beef over mashed potatoes or rice.
4. Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stovetop, adding extra broth if needed.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

1. Lean Meat: Use lean cuts of beef like sirloin to reduce the fat content.
2. Whole-Grain Noodles: Substitute regular egg noodles with whole-grain or high-protein alternatives.
3. Lower Sodium: Opt for low-sodium broth and soy sauce to keep sodium levels in check.
4. Add Veggies: Bulk up the dish with nutrient-dense vegetables like spinach or kale.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Family Dinner: Pair with a green salad and crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.
• Potluck Dish: Prepare in advance and keep warm in a slow cooker for easy serving at gatherings.
• Holiday Comfort: Serve as part of a cozy holiday spread with roasted vegetables and mashed potatoes.

Special Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Large pot for boiling noodles
• Wooden spoon for deglazing

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes! After searing the beef, transfer it to a slow cooker with the broth and seasonings. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, then stir in the cooked noodles before serving.

2. What kind of noodles work best?
Egg noodles are traditional, but you can use any pasta or even substitute with mashed potatoes or rice.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This recipe reheats beautifully and can be made a day or two in advance.

4. How do I thicken the broth?
For a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the broth during the final 10 minutes of cooking.

5. Can I add wine to the broth?
Yes! Adding 1/2 cup of red wine while deglazing the pot will deepen the flavor.

6. What cut of beef works best?
Chuck roast is ideal, but brisket or even stew meat can also be used.

7. How do I prevent mushy noodles?
Cook the noodles separately and add them to the beef and broth just before serving.

8. Can I use canned broth?
Yes, but for the best flavor, opt for low-sodium or homemade broth.

Conclusion

Beef and noodles is the ultimate comfort dish that combines tender, savory beef with satisfying, slurp-worthy noodles. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a meal that fits any occasion—from a cozy family dinner to a hearty dish for entertaining guests. Packed with flavor and warmth, this classic dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. With its rich broth, melt-in-your-mouth beef, and soft noodles, every bite feels like a hug in a bowl. Try it today and savor the timeless comfort of beef and noodles!

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