If cozy, family-style comfort food is calling your name, this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe is the dinner to answer. It’s hearty, rich, and packed with flavor from tender beef, savory broth, and slurp-worthy egg noodles all cooked together in one pot. Whether you’re seeking a fuss-free weeknight meal or something to warm every soul at the table, you’ll love how this dish brings everyone running with just one whiff. You’ll master the Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe in under an hour using pantry staples, turning simple ingredients into the legendary kind of home-cooked goodness you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every component in this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe has a true purpose, coming together for a dish that feels classic and effortless. Minimal fuss and maximum flavor—here’s what you’ll need, and why each one matters:
- Beef stew meat or sirloin: Choose well-marbled cubes for optimum tenderness and deep flavor throughout your dish.
- Olive oil: A splash of this helps brown the beef beautifully, making a foundation of savory richness.
- Onion: Provides sweetness and depth as it softens—a flavor base no beefy dish should be without!
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic infuses every bite with irresistible aroma and warmth.
- Beef broth: The key to a savory, comforting sauce—it ties everything together and helps simmer the beef to tender perfection.
- Worcestershire sauce: Just a tablespoon adds a bold, umami complexity you’ll absolutely notice.
- Onion powder: Reinforces the savory background notes without overpowering.
- Dried thyme: Offers subtle earthy flavor and aroma, making the whole pot feel extra cozy.
- Salt and pepper: These bring all the flavors into perfect balance—taste as you go!
- Egg noodles: Classic, sturdy noodles that soak up the saucy goodness beautifully and cook quickly.
- Cornstarch slurry (optional): Mix with cold water for thickening the sauce if you prefer it silky and clingy.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A sprinkle on top lends fresh color and brightness for serving.
How to Make Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the beef pieces and let them sizzle undisturbed until they’re deliciously browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Browning here is crucial—it locks in flavor and gives that irresistible crust, so take your time and don’t crowd the pan!
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, remove it to a plate but keep all those tasty drippings in the pot. Toss in your diced onion and sauté until it’s softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Next, stir in your minced garlic and let it cook just until aromatic, about 30 seconds. This step builds the foundation for the whole Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe.
Step 3: Simmer the Beef with Seasonings
Return the browned beef (plus any juices) to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, then add Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, dried thyme, and a generous pinch each of salt and pepper. Stir well, bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the mixture simmer for 30–35 minutes, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Step 4: Add the Noodles
Stir the uncooked egg noodles right into the simmering pot, making sure they’re mostly submerged in the broth. Replace the lid and cook for about 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are perfectly tender and have soaked up most of that flavorful liquid.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
If you love a creamy, clinging sauce, now’s the time to stir in your cornstarch slurry. Mix it into the pot and let everything simmer for another 2–3 minutes, watching the sauce transform into a silky coating for the beef and noodles.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve your Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe piping hot straight from the pot, finishing each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and a tempting hit of brightness!
How to Serve Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A final sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley works wonders for both the look and flavor of your Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe. If you want a little extra richness, add a little grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream—your bowl becomes a mini masterpiece with almost no effort.
Side Dishes
This dish is super satisfying on its own, but if you want to round out your meal, serve it with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots. Even a simple loaf of warm bread or dinner rolls is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the savory sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try ladling your Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe into individual bowls and topping each with a swirl of sour cream and cracked black pepper for a rustic bistro feel. For family-style comfort, bring the pot right to the center of the table so everyone can dig in together—just like Grandma would do. Or, fill up a thermos and take it along for a tailgate or picnic when you want portable comfort food!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe stores beautifully in the fridge. Cool any remaining portions quickly, transfer them to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors get even better overnight!
Freezing
While the noodles may soften a bit, you can absolutely freeze this dish for longer storage. Portion the fully cooled beef and noodles into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
For best results, gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring in a splash of beef broth or water to loosen things up if needed. You can also microwave individual servings until hot, being careful not to overcook the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While stew meat and sirloin work wonderfully, you can also use chuck roast or any cut that becomes tender with braising. Just be sure to cut everything into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
Is it possible to make the Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe adapts easily for slow cooking. Just brown the beef and onions as usual, then transfer everything except the noodles to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding the egg noodles during the last 30 minutes to cook until tender.
What can I substitute for egg noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles on hand, try using rotini, penne, or even wide fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time as needed and keep an eye on the noodles for perfect doneness.
Can I add vegetables for extra nutrition?
Vegetables are a fantastic addition. Toss in sliced mushrooms, carrots, or even baby spinach during the last 10–15 minutes of cooking. They’ll add color, flavor, and a nutrition boost to your Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe.
How can I make the dish creamier?
For a little extra indulgence, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a generous spoonful of sour cream once the dish is cooked. It turns the sauce extra silky and adds a luscious richness that everyone will love.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of serving up a dinner that feels both special and simple, and the Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe truly delivers. Give it a try the next time you crave something cozy, and watch it become a new favorite at your table!
Print
Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Savor the deliciousness of this easy beef and noodles recipe that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. Tender beef, savory broth, and hearty egg noodles come together in a single pot for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Beef:
1 pound beef stew meat or sirloin (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Other:
1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 small onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 3 cups beef broth, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, salt and pepper to taste, 8 ounces egg noodles, 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water (optional, for thickening), chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Beef: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear until browned on all sides, about 5–6 minutes. Remove beef and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until soft, about 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Cook the Beef: Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes until the beef is tender.
- Add Noodles: Add the egg noodles and stir to submerge them in the broth. Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Thicken (Optional): If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in the cornstarch slurry and simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
- This recipe also works well in a slow cooker—just add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
