Beef and Noodles

A comforting and hearty dish, Beef and Noodles combines tender chunks of beef with rich savory gravy and egg noodles for a simple yet satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this dish brings everyone to the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the definition of comfort food. The slow-cooked beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the rich gravy pairs perfectly with the soft, chewy egg noodles. It’s a versatile, family-friendly dish that can be made with pantry staples, requires minimal prep, and is perfect for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into chunks
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Olive oil or butter
• All-purpose flour (for thickening)
• Salt and pepper
• Egg noodles
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat.
2. Season beef with salt and pepper, then sear in batches until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Return the beef to the pot and stir in flour to coat the meat and vegetables.
5. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook on low for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
7. About 10 minutes before serving, cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
8. Add cooked noodles to the pot with beef and stir to combine.
9. Simmer for a few more minutes to let flavors meld. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6 and takes about 2 hours total: 15 minutes for prep and 1 hour 45 minutes for cooking.

Variations

• Slow Cooker Method: After searing beef and sautéing aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Add Vegetables: Include mushrooms, carrots, or peas for added nutrition and texture.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a creamier dish.
• Use Different Pasta: Swap egg noodles with fettuccine, rotini, or even mashed potatoes for a twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. For freezing, store beef and noodles separately for best texture, up to 3 months.

FAQs

How do I make the beef extra tender?

Use well-marbled cuts like chuck roast and cook it low and slow. The longer simmering time breaks down the connective tissue.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on “Sauté” to brown meat and aromatics, then pressure cook on high for 35 minutes with a natural release.

What type of noodles should I use?

Traditional wide egg noodles are best, but any pasta with a sturdy texture will work.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Carrots, peas, or mushrooms are great additions.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Using flour during the browning process creates a roux, but you can also add a cornstarch slurry toward the end if needed.

Is this freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze the beef and gravy separately from the noodles for the best results.

Can I use leftover roast beef?

Definitely. Just shorten the cooking time since the meat is already cooked.

What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar can be used in a pinch.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Cook them al dente and add them just before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe scales well for larger batches. Use a larger pot and adjust cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Beef and Noodles is a timeless, soul-warming meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to please. With tender beef, hearty noodles, and a rich, savory sauce, it’s the perfect dish for family dinners or meal prepping ahead. Try it once, and it might just become a staple in your kitchen.

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