Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles

Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is a classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Tender beef, savory gravy, and egg noodles come together to create a hearty, stick-to-your-ribs meal that everyone will love. The best part? The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with a warm and satisfying dinner with minimal effort. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Beef and Noodles

• 2 pounds beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
• 12 ounces egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Assemble the Slow Cooker

1. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
2. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender.

Step 4: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

1. If you prefer a thicker gravy, whisk together the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

1. About 20 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the beef and gravy over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Browning the Beef: Browning the beef adds a depth of flavor to the dish, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
• Beef Cuts: Chuck roast or stew meat works well for this recipe because they become tender after slow cooking.
• Gravy Consistency: If the gravy is too thin, use a cornstarch slurry to thicken it. For a thinner gravy, omit the slurry.

Variations

• Mushroom Beef and Noodles: Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker for an earthy flavor that complements the beef.
• Spicy Beef and Noodles: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the slow cooker for a bit of heat.
• Vegetable Addition: Add diced carrots or celery to the slow cooker for added texture and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use a Different Type of Noodles?

Yes! You can use any type of pasta you like, such as egg noodles, penne, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. How Should I Store Leftovers?

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

3. Can I Freeze Beef and Noodles?

Yes, you can freeze the beef and gravy (without the noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating and serving with freshly cooked noodles.

4. What Can I Serve with Beef and Noodles?

This dish is hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side of crusty bread, steamed vegetables, or a simple green salad to complete the meal.

Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is the ultimate comfort food, with tender beef, rich gravy, and hearty noodles coming together in one satisfying dish. This easy recipe is perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal without all the fuss. Just set it in the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you go about your day. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a comforting meal that the whole family will love.

Happy cooking!