French Onion Beef and Noodles

This French Onion Beef and Noodles is a comforting, one-pot dish that brings all the delicious flavors of French onion soup together with tender beef and hearty egg noodles. The savory beef is simmered with caramelized onions and a rich broth, then combined with noodles for a cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknights. With a hint of melted cheese on top, this dish has all the elements of a classic French onion dish but in a more substantial, filling form. Let’s dive into this comforting recipe!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for French Onion Beef and Noodles
2. Instructions for French Onion Beef and Noodles
3. Tips & Notes
4. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients for French Onion Beef and Noodles

• 1 lb beef stew meat or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions for French Onion Beef and Noodles

Step 1: Caramelize the Onions

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
• Cook, stirring frequently, for 20-25 minutes or until the onions are deep golden brown and caramelized. If needed, add a splash of water to prevent the onions from burning.
• Once caramelized, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the onions from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

• In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and season with the remaining salt and black pepper.
• Cook for 5-7 minutes or until browned on all sides. Sprinkle the flour over the beef and stir to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

• Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine and scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
• Add the caramelized onions back into the skillet along with the dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the beef is tender.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

• While the beef is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

• Once the beef is tender, stir in the cooked egg noodles until everything is well combined.
• Sprinkle the top with the shredded Gruyere or Swiss cheese and cover until the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot for a comforting, delicious meal.

Tips & Notes

• Caramelizing Onions: Be patient when caramelizing the onions; this step is key to developing the rich, sweet flavor that makes this dish so delicious.
• Beef Cuts: Use beef stew meat for a more economical option, or sirloin for a quicker, more tender version.
• Cheese Option: Gruyere or Swiss cheese is traditional for French onion flavor, but mozzarella can be used if you prefer a milder taste.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Mushroom Addition: Add 8 oz of sliced mushrooms when caramelizing the onions for an extra layer of flavor.
• Slow Cooker Version: After caramelizing the onions and browning the beef, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add cooked noodles and cheese before serving.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a meatless alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make French Onion Beef and Noodles ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef and onion mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the mixture, cook the noodles, and combine.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the beef and onion mixture (without the noodles) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, reheat, and add freshly cooked noodles before serving.

This French Onion Beef and Noodles is the perfect comfort food, combining all the deep flavors of French onion soup with hearty beef and tender egg noodles. It’s a one-pot dish that’s rich, flavorful, and satisfying—ideal for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Serve it with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete, comforting dinner that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Happy cooking, and enjoy this delicious, comforting meal!