Health meal, low carbs meals, keto meal

French Onion Beef and Noodles

French Onion Beef and Noodles is a comforting and savory dish that combines tender beef, caramelized onions, and egg noodles in a rich, flavorful sauce. Inspired by the classic flavors of French onion soup, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner. The deep flavors of caramelized onions and the hearty beef make it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. Let’s get started!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 lb beef sirloin or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed French onion soup
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 8 oz egg noodles, uncooked
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Caramelize the Onions

  1. Heat Butter and Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted.
  2. Cook Onions: Add the sliced onions and sprinkle with granulated sugar. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes, or until the onions are golden brown and caramelized. If the onions start to stick, add a splash of water to deglaze the pan.

Cook the Beef

  1. Season Beef: While the onions are caramelizing, season the beef pieces with salt, black pepper, and flour, tossing to coat evenly.
  2. Add Beef to Onions: Push the onions to one side of the skillet. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the beef to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the beef is browned on all sides.

Combine and Simmer

  1. Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix everything together until well combined.
  2. Add Soup and Broth: Pour in the condensed French onion soup and beef broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Cook the Noodles

  1. Add Noodles: Stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Add Cheese (Optional)

  1. Add Cheese: If using, sprinkle the shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese over the top of the beef and noodles. Cover and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
  2. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Cook’s Notes and Tips

  • Caramelizing Onions: Caramelizing the onions slowly is key to developing deep flavor. Be patient and cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  • Beef Options: Sirloin, stew meat, or even ground beef can be used in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different cuts.
  • Broth Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the mixture simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce it to your desired consistency.

Variations

  • Mushroom Beef and Noodles: Add 8 oz of sliced mushrooms when caramelizing the onions for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Creamy French Onion Beef: Stir in 1/2 cup of sour cream or heavy cream at the end for a creamy twist.
  • Slow Cooker Option: Cook the caramelized onions and sear the beef on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the egg noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

  • Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
  • Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed green beans or broccoli for added color and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.

Can I Freeze French Onion Beef and Noodles?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Absolutely! Gruyère or Swiss cheese works best for the classic French onion flavor, but you can also use mozzarella or cheddar if you prefer.

How Do I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour to coat the beef, and substitute the egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta of your choice.

French Onion Beef and Noodles is a comforting, savory dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With tender beef, caramelized onions, and a rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is sure to be a hit with your family. The cheesy topping adds an extra layer of indulgence that makes it even more irresistible. Gather your ingredients, cook, and enjoy this hearty and satisfying meal!

Happy Cooking!

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