How to Make Classic Beef and Noodles: A Cozy, Comforting Dinner Recipe
Comfort in every spoonful, with tender meat, savory mushrooms, and silky pasta.
Classic Beef and Noodles: A Cozy, Comforting Dinner Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and slurpable egg noodles swimming in a rich, savory broth. If you’re searching for a dish that’s both satisfying and nostalgic, look no further than this Classic Beef and Noodles recipe. Packed with layers of flavor and minimal hands-on time—though a bit of patience is required—this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Beef and Noodles Recipe
This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after a long simmer, while mushrooms and onions add depth and umami. The whole thing is brought together by chewy, thick egg noodles that soak up every drop of flavorful broth. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you need a pick-me-up, this recipe delivers warmth and satisfaction.
Recipe Overview
This Beef and Noodles recipe uses simple ingredients—stew beef or chuck roast, onions, mushrooms, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and frozen egg noodles, plus a few pantry staples. The process involves searing the beef for flavor, sautéing the aromatics, simmering everything together, and finally, stirring in the noodles directly in the broth for maximum absorption of flavors.
Ingredients List
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat (or chuck roast), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 12 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 1 quart beef stock
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 (12-ounce) bag frozen egg noodles (such as Reames)
- Sour cream and chopped parsley, for serving (optional)
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with a lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Large bowl
- Tongs
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare and Coat the Beef
In a large bowl, combine the flour, ½ teaspoon seasoned salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Add the cubed beef and toss until each piece is well coated.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the butter and olive oil, swirling to coat the bottom. Working in batches, add the beef, making sure not to crowd the pot. Cook until browned on all sides, about 4 to 5 minutes per batch. Use tongs to transfer the browned beef to a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion, mushrooms, garlic, and remaining seasoned salt and black pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot, for about 7 minutes.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Herbs
Pour in the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce, then return the seared beef to the pot. Add the thyme sprigs and bring everything to a simmer.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and let the mixture simmer gently for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Step 6: Cook the Noodles
Once the beef is tender, remove the lid, discard the thyme sprigs, and add the frozen egg noodles directly to the pot. Stir well to combine. Increase the heat to medium and cook, uncovered, for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked through and the broth has thickened slightly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the beef and noodles into bowls and top with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Cut Beef Uniformly: For even cooking, cut the beef into uniform 1-inch pieces.
- Use Good Stock: Homemade or high-quality store-bought beef stock will elevate the flavor.
- Customize Your Veggies: Add carrots or celery for extra color and nutrition.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Brown the beef in batches to avoid steaming instead of searing.
- Make Ahead: The beef stew can be made a day in advance—just add the noodles before serving to keep them from getting mushy.
Serving Suggestions
Beef and Noodles are hearty enough to stand alone, but you can round out the meal with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or a simple side of steamed green beans. Crusty bread is also a delicious addition for soaking up any extra broth.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450–500 kcal |
| Protein | 35–40 g |
| Fat | 20–25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30–35 g |
| Fiber | 2–3 g |
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce. The noodles will absorb more liquid over time, so you may need to stir in extra broth to reach your desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh egg noodles instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh egg noodles can be used; adjust the cooking time according to package directions, as fresh noodles typically cook faster than frozen.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything except the noodles to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, then add the noodles during the last 20–30 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze Beef and Noodles?
While you can freeze the stewed beef and broth, it’s best to avoid freezing the noodles, as they may become mushy upon reheating. Add fresh noodles when you’re ready to eat.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
Soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can provide a similar savory depth if you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, this recipe is not gluten-free due to the flour and egg noodles. Use gluten-free flour and noodles to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion: A Dish to Remember
There’s a reason Beef and Noodles is a beloved classic: it’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and endlessly comforting. With tender beef, hearty mushrooms, and slippery egg noodles in every bite, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to any table. Make it once, and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite from generation to generation.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a60928857/beef-noodle-casserole-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cGgNWPKW_o
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a38698825/beef-and-noodles-recipe/
- https://www.halfscratched.com/pioneer-woman-beef-noodle-skillet/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11738/sour-cream-noodle-bake/
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