This easy beef and noodles recipe is all about simplicity. Forget complicated techniques and endless ingredient lists. We’re focusing on a handful of key components, prepared in a way that preserves flavor while drastically cutting down on prep and cook time. It’s perfect for beginner cooks, busy families, or anyone craving a comforting, home-cooked meal without the fuss.
What makes this dish so special? It’s the perfect balance of ease and flavor. The beef becomes incredibly tender, the noodles soak up all that savory goodness, and the overall result is a deeply satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Try it tonight – you won’t believe how simple it is to create such a comforting and flavorful dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (I recommend 80/20 for flavor, but leaner works too)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Tips:
- “For extra richness, stir in 2 ounces of cream cheese at the end.”
- “Salt pasta water like the ocean for flavor.”
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Why? Breaking up the beef ensures even cooking and prevents large clumps.
- Drain Excess Fat: Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess fat. Why? Removing the fat prevents a greasy final dish.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Why? Sautéing the aromatics releases their flavors, building a deeper flavor base for the dish.
- Add Broth and Soup: Pour in the beef broth and stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup. Mix well to combine. Why? The beef broth provides the liquid base for the sauce, while the cream of mushroom soup adds creaminess and flavor.
- Season: Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Why? Seasoning at this stage allows the flavors to meld together as the sauce simmers.
- Add Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the pot. Stir to ensure they are submerged in the liquid. Why? Submerging the noodles ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavorful sauce.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking. Why? Simmering allows the noodles to cook through and the sauce to thicken to the desired consistency.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the beef and noodles and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt and pepper to taste. Why? Tasting and adjusting ensures the final dish is perfectly seasoned to your liking.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Why? Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Serving Ideas for Easy Beef and Noodles
Easy beef and noodles are a comforting and versatile dish that can be served in numerous ways. The creamy, savory flavors pair well with a variety of sides, transforming a simple meal into a complete dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your easy beef and noodles:
Classic Comfort Pairing: Green Salad and Crusty Bread
A simple green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef and noodles. Opt for a mix of crisp lettuce, sliced cucumbers, and juicy tomatoes, dressed with a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess of the noodles, balancing the palate.
On the side, serve warm, crusty bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce in the bowl, ensuring no deliciousness goes to waste. For plating, consider serving the beef and noodles in a deep bowl to contain the sauce. Arrange a small side salad next to the bowl, and place a slice of crusty bread artfully against the salad. A sprinkle of fresh parsley over the noodles adds a pop of color and freshness.
Vegetable Medley: Roasted Broccoli and Carrots
For a nutritious and colorful addition, serve your beef and noodles with roasted broccoli and carrots. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder before roasting them until tender and slightly caramelized. The slight sweetness of the carrots and the earthy flavor of the broccoli complement the savory beef and noodles beautifully.
To serve, place a generous portion of beef and noodles in the center of the plate, and arrange the roasted vegetables around the edges. This presentation is both visually appealing and ensures a balanced meal. You might also consider adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese over the vegetables for an extra layer of flavor.
The key to a great serving suggestion is understanding how different flavors and textures complement each other. Easy beef and noodles are rich and savory, so pairing them with something fresh, acidic, or slightly sweet can create a more satisfying and well-rounded meal. You can also check Beef, Ground for the nutritional information about ground beef.
Remember, plating is just as important as taste. A well-presented dish can elevate the dining experience, making even a simple meal feel special. So take a few extra moments to arrange your food artfully on the plate.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! While ground beef is the most common and economical choice for easy beef and noodles, you can certainly substitute it with other types of meat. Ground turkey or ground chicken are lighter alternatives that still provide a savory base. For a richer, more flavorful option, consider using stew meat or cubed beef chuck. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is tender. If using stew meat, you might want to sear it before adding the other ingredients and simmer it for a longer period, perhaps 1.5 to 2 hours, until it’s fork-tender.
Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef as instructed in the recipe, then transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the onions, garlic, beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles and cook until they are tender. Keep an eye on the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in an even more flavorful dish.
Q: Can I freeze beef and noodles?
Yes, beef and noodles freeze well, making it a great option for meal prepping or saving leftovers. Allow the beef and noodles to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container or freezer bag. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the beef and noodles in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Keep in mind that the noodles may become a bit softer after freezing and thawing, but the overall taste and texture will still be delicious.
Q: How can I make this recipe healthier?
There are several ways to make this recipe healthier without sacrificing flavor. First, use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce the fat content. You can also substitute the cream of mushroom soup with a lighter version or make your own healthier cream sauce using milk or broth thickened with cornstarch. Adding extra vegetables, such as diced carrots, celery, or peas, will also boost the nutritional value of the dish. Finally, consider using whole-wheat egg noodles for added fiber.
Q: What can I add to make the flavor more robust?
To enhance the flavor of your easy beef and noodles, consider adding a few extra ingredients. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can add depth and umami. You can also sauté some mushrooms along with the onions and garlic for an earthier flavor. A bay leaf added during simmering can infuse the dish with a subtle aroma. Finally, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a touch of heat. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, ensuring that all the flavors are balanced. If you want to explore other seasoning options, you can explore whether you can you use taco seasoning on chicken instead of beef.
Q: How do I ensure the noodles don’t become mushy?
To prevent your noodles from becoming mushy, it’s crucial to avoid overcooking them. Add the noodles to the pot only when the sauce is simmering gently, and cook them just until they are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If you’re using a slow cooker, add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking time and keep a close eye on them.
Also, be aware that the noodles will continue to absorb liquid even after cooking, so it’s best to serve the beef and noodles soon after they’re ready. If you’re planning to freeze the dish, slightly undercook the noodles to prevent them from becoming too soft after thawing. Always make sure that your food preparation is in accordance with the Food Safety Guidelines.
Conclusion
Easy beef and noodles are a timeless classic for a reason: they’re comforting, satisfying, and incredibly simple to make. This streamlined version brings all the flavor you crave without the all-day cooking commitment. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love. You can serve this with difference between chicken taco seasoning and beef taco seasoning.
Pro Tips:
- For extra flavor, try adding a tablespoon of tomato paste along with the onions and garlic. It adds a touch of richness and depth.
- A splash of red wine during the sautéing process can also elevate the flavor profile.
Variations:
- Cheesy Beef and Noodles: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese or a mix of your favorite cheeses at the end for a cheesy twist.
- Spicy Beef and Noodles: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat. You can even use a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for added flavor and spice.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this easy beef and noodles recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking and enjoyed any time of year. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and make it your own!
PrintEasy Beef and Noodles Recipe
This recipe provides 10 amazing tips for making delicious and easy beef noodles at home. Follow these simple steps for a flavorful and satisfying meal!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp ginger, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate beef in soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil for 15 minutes.
- Cook noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, stir-fry beef until browned.
- Add ginger and garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with green onions before serving.
- Enjoy your delicious beef noodles!
- These tips will help you improve the flavor and save some time
Notes
For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also add other vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, or mushrooms.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: beef, noodles, stir-fry, Asian cuisine