French Onion Beef Noodles combine the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup with hearty beef and tender noodles, all cooked in a savory, creamy sauce. This one-pot dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and is sure to become a comfort food favorite. With just a few simple steps, you can have a warm, satisfying meal that’s ready in no time. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese or Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Caramelize Onions: Add the sliced onions to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and caramelized. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Broth
- Season and Add Liquid: Stir in the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and balsamic vinegar. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 3: Cook the Noodles
- Add Noodles: Stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are tender and the broth has reduced.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
- Add Sour Cream and Cheese: Stir in the sour cream until the sauce is creamy. Sprinkle the shredded Gruyère cheese over the top, allowing it to melt into the dish.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Onion Caramelization: Be patient when caramelizing the onions. The key to rich flavor is to let them cook slowly until they turn golden brown and sweet.
- Cheese Substitute: If you can’t find Gruyère, you can use Swiss cheese or even mozzarella for a similar melty texture.
- Broth Amount: Depending on your preference, you can add a bit more broth if you like a saucier consistency.
Variations
- Mushroom Addition: Add sliced mushrooms to the onions for an extra layer of earthy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Herb Twist: Add fresh thyme or rosemary to enhance the herbaceous flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or crusty baguette slices to soak up the savory sauce.
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Vegetables: Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts make a great side dish to round out the meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Another Type of Pasta?
Yes, you can use any short pasta you like, such as rotini or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. It reheats well, but you may need to add a bit of extra broth or water when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?
You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a slightly tangier flavor that’s still creamy.
French Onion Beef Noodles is a comforting, one-pot meal that combines the best of French onion soup with hearty noodles and beef. With its savory flavors, creamy sauce, and cheesy topping, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Gather your ingredients, cook with love, and enjoy a bowl of this rich and satisfying comfort food!
Happy Cooking!
