If you’ve been searching for a comforting, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than this Beef and Noodles Recipe. It’s a classic dish where tender chunks of beef mingle with silky egg noodles, all bathed in a rich and savory broth that’s been simmered to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe delivers satisfying flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. The simple ingredients come together beautifully to create something truly unforgettable.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet essential, each playing a key role in building layers of flavor and the perfect texture. From the tender beef chuck to the bright frozen vegetables, every component brings something special to the Beef and Noodles Recipe.
- 1 pound beef chuck: Choose well-marbled pieces for tenderness and flavor after slow cooking.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: For browning the beef, adding richness without overpowering the taste.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Provides aromatic warmth and a flavorful punch.
- 4 cups beef broth: The hearty base that infuses the dish with savory goodness.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami and a touch of saltiness, perfect for balancing flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the savory profile with subtle tang and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Brings an earthy, herbal note that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a subtle, warming heat without overpowering.
- 8 ounces egg noodles: The soft, tender noodles soak up the flavorful broth perfectly.
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn): Adds color, texture, and a sweet contrast.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional): Use this to thicken the sauce if you prefer a heartier consistency.
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch): Helps dissolve the cornstarch for smooth thickening.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds brightness and a fresh pop of color to finish the dish.
How to Make Beef and Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef chuck pieces in batches, making sure to sear all sides to lock in the juices and develop a rich, caramelized flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside for later. This step lays a flavorful foundation for the entire dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and sweet, about five minutes. Then add the minced garlic, cooking it just long enough to release its aroma without burning – roughly one more minute. This builds a fragrant base that complements the beef beautifully.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the browned beef to your pot and pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to blend the flavors evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours until the beef is fork-tender and easily shredded, soaking up all those aromatic seasonings.
Step 4: Add Noodles and Vegetables
About 15 minutes before your beef reaches the perfect tenderness, stir in the egg noodles and frozen mixed vegetables. Simmer uncovered to allow the noodles to soften and the vegetables to thaw, helping everything meld into one harmonious, delicious dish.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you love a luscious, thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to form a smooth slurry. Slowly stir this into your pot during the last few minutes of cooking. This simple step will give the broth a velvety texture that clings beautifully to the beef and noodles.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the noodles are perfectly tender and all ingredients are heated through, remove the pot from heat. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Your Beef and Noodles Recipe is now ready to serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Beef and Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley isn’t just about looks; it brightens the rich flavors and offers a lovely contrast to the hearty beef and noodles. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a dash of grated Parmesan can also elevate the dish with extra layers of taste.
Side Dishes
This Beef and Noodles Recipe stands perfectly on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad to add freshness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette soaked in that flavorful broth can transform your meal into a full, satisfying experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the beef and noodles in individual bowls topped with a poached egg for extra richness. Or turn it into a comforting casserole by layering with cheese and baking until bubbly and golden. The possibilities are as cozy as the dish itself!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover beef and noodles store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld overnight, making the next-day meal just as delicious, if not better.
Freezing
You can freeze the beef and noodles dish for up to 3 months. For best results, cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of broth or water if the noodles seem dry. Microwaving is fine too; just heat in shorter bursts to avoid overcooking the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is preferred for its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket or stew meat. Just be sure to simmer long enough for the beef to become fork-tender.
Do I have to use egg noodles? What are some substitutes?
Egg noodles are traditional here for their softness and shape, but you can swap in any wide pasta or even mashed potatoes for a similar comforting effect.
Is the cornstarch necessary for thickening the sauce?
No, the cornstarch is optional. If you like a thinner broth or prefer the natural consistency, feel free to skip this step — the dish will still be delicious!
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt it by browning the beef and sautéing aromatics, then moving everything to a slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours. Add noodles and vegetables near the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.
What should I do if I want more vegetables?
Feel free to increase the amount of frozen veggies or even add fresh ones like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. Just adjust cooking times slightly so everything is perfectly tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about a hearty bowl of homemade Beef and Noodles Recipe, especially when made with love and simple ingredients. It’s no wonder this dish has warmed hearts and filled bellies for generations. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and discover how easy it is to create such a cozy, flavorful meal right at home. Happy cooking!
Print
Beef and Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 20m
- Cook Time: 2h 0m
- Total Time: 2h 20m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Beef and Noodles recipe features tender chunks of beef chuck simmered in a flavorful broth with garlic, onions, and herbs, combined with tender egg noodles and mixed vegetables. Perfect for a satisfying and comforting meal, this slow-simmered dish offers a rich taste and a deliciously thickened sauce option.
Ingredients
Beef and Broth
- 1 pound beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Noodles and Vegetables
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
Thickening and Garnish
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef pieces in batches to avoid overcrowding, browning them on all sides. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté over medium heat until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, then add soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the beef: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and can be shredded easily with a fork.
- Add noodles and vegetables: About 15 minutes before the end of the cooking time, add the egg noodles and frozen mixed vegetables directly to the pot. Stir well and continue to simmer uncovered so the noodles can cook and the sauce slightly reduce.
- Thicken the sauce (optional): If you want a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this slurry into the pot during the last few minutes of cooking. Allow the sauce to thicken to your preferred consistency.
- Serve: Once the noodles are tender and the beef is fully cooked, remove the pot from heat. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of freshness and color.
Notes
- For richer flavor, sear the beef in batches to ensure proper browning.
- You can substitute frozen mixed vegetables with fresh seasonal vegetables if preferred.
- Adjust salt according to the saltiness of the broth and soy sauce used.
- If you prefer gluten-free noodles, substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
