If you’re looking for a Beef and Noodles recipe, you’ve come to the right place!
The recipe is easy. Step-by-step instructions to help you make it today!
Why Do We Love Beef and Noodles?
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a steaming bowl of beef and noodles. It’s hearty, homey, and flavorful—a go-to meal that’s as satisfying as simple. But what exactly makes this classic dish so beloved?
First, it’s the rich combination of textures and flavors: tender, juicy beef paired with soft egg noodles, all wrapped in a savory, well-seasoned gravy. It delivers a warm, nostalgic feeling with every bite, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners and lazy weekend meals.
Secondly, customization is key. Whether adding mushrooms for earthiness, tossing peas for color, or stirring in sour cream for a creamy twist, this dish adapts to your taste. The ingredients are pantry staples, meaning you can whip it up without a remarkable grocery run.
At its core, beef and noodles is more than just a meal—a feel-good experience that brings people together. And that’s why we keep coming back to it.
What are Beef and Noodles?
Beef and noodles is a comfort food classic made with tender beef, egg noodles, and a rich, savory gravy. Think of it as the cozy cousin of beef stroganoff or pot roast, with simplified prep and full-on flavor.
The star ingredients—lean ground beef or stew meat, egg noodles, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce—create a flavorful base that’s both easy to cook and satisfying to eat. Whether simmered in a skillet or slow-cooked to perfection, the noodles absorb all that umami-packed gravy, turning each forkful into pure comfort.
Enjoy it as-is, or amp it up with veggies, mushrooms, or cream. From picky eaters to flavor chasers, this dish delivers for everyone. It’s the perfect fusion of versatility, simplicity, and soul-warming goodness.
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- Lean ground beef or stew meat – Quick-cooking and flavorful; stew meat offers more profound richness if slow-cooked.
- Egg noodles – Perfectly absorb the gravy and bring a soft, chewy texture.
- Beef broth – Use homemade for richness or store-bought for convenience.
- Worcestershire sauce – Adds bold, savory depth with a slight tang.
- Onion & garlic – Aromatic foundation for the sauce.
- Salt & pepper – Enhance and balance the flavor.
- Flour or cornstarch – To thicken that velvety gravy.
- Butter and oil – Help brown the beef and add richness.
Optional Add-ins
- Mushrooms – For umami and earthiness.
- Peas, carrots, or green beans – Add texture and nutrition.
- Sour cream or heavy cream – To create a creamy, luscious version.
Why Lean Ground Beef Works Well
- Quick and convenient – No long-simmering needed.
- Lower fat – Reduces grease and keeps the dish light.
- Even texture – Blends smoothly into the sauce.
Using lean ground beef makes this dish a weeknight hero—fast, delicious, and family-friendly.
How to Make Beef and Noodles: Step-by-Step
1. Brown the Meat
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add beef and cook until browned. Drain if needed.
- Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce.
2. Prepare the Sauce
- Add minced onion and garlic to the beef. Sauté until soft.
- Sprinkle in flour and stir to make a roux.
- Slowly pour in beef broth, stirring constantly.
- Simmer until the sauce thickens.
3. Cook the Noodles
- Boil water in a large pot.
- Add egg noodles and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine Everything
- Add cooked noodles to the skillet with beef and gravy.
- Stir and let simmer for a few minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Optional: Add sour cream or more broth for desired consistency.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with parsley or shredded cheese.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
- Store leftovers in the fridge; reheat gently with extra broth.
Tips for the Best Beef and Noodles
Creating the perfect beef and noodle dish balances flavor, texture, and technique. These simple yet effective tips will help you get the best results every time, whether making a quick weekday dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Choosing the Right Beef
- Lean ground beef is ideal for a quick, easy dish version. It cooks fast and blends smoothly with the sauce.
- Stew meat is perfect for a more prosperous, slow-cooked version. When simmered over time, it becomes tender and intensely flavorful.
Tip: Brown the beef properly for maximum flavor. Use medium-high heat and allow the meat to sear before stirring.
Getting the Perfect Gravy
- Use flour for a classic, thicker gravy that feels hearty and traditional.
- Choose cornstarch for a smoother, silkier finish with a slightly lighter consistency.
If the gravy becomes too thick, add a small amount of beef broth and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water if it’s too thin and stir it into the simmering sauce to thicken.
Best Noodles for This Dish
- Egg noodles are the traditional and most effective choice. They absorb the gravy well and hold their texture during cooking.
- For variations, consider homemade noodles, regular pasta, or gluten-free options like rice noodles to fit dietary needs.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- To reheat, add a splash of beef broth to prevent the noodles from drying out. Heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Variations of Beef and Noodles
Once you’ve mastered the classic version, try these flavorful variations to keep things interesting and tailor the dish to different occasions or preferences.
Classic Amish Beef and Noodles
This traditional take uses slow-cooked beef chunks instead of ground beef. The beef is simmered for hours in a rich broth, creating a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
The gravy is typically made thicker and richer, with added butter and Worcestershire sauce. Serve over mashed potatoes for a hearty, satisfying meal.
Creamy Beef and Noodles
This version introduces sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream to create a creamy, stroganoff-style dish. The result is a silky, comforting meal with a slightly tangy and rich flavor.
It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer a cream-based sauce and want something more indulgent.
Check also: Easy Taco Bowl Recipe
Beef and Noodles Casserole
Transform your dish into a baked casserole for added texture and convenience. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish after combining the cooked beef, noodles, and sauce.
Top with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and bubbly. This version works well as a make-ahead dinner and is perfect for feeding a crowd.
Conclusion
Beef and noodles are timeless comfort foods that are easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With tender beef, hearty egg noodles, and savory, flavorful gravy, this dish delivers on taste and convenience—perfect for everything from busy weeknights to relaxed Sunday dinners.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Add vegetables, stir in cream, or choose your favorite beef cut to make it your own. Whether you’re after speed or richness, there’s a variation that suits your schedule and flavor preferences.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy the warmth of a homemade meal. Don’t forget to share your favorite twists or tips in the comments—your version might just become someone else’s new favorite.
Beef and Noodles Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef or stew meat
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 small onion minced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp flour or cornstarch slurry
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the meat in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté onion and garlic, then stir in flour.
- Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; simmer until thickened.
- Boil egg noodles separately until al dente; drain.
- Combine noodles with beef and gravy; stir and simmer.
- Adjust seasoning, then serve hot.
Notes
- Add sour cream for a creamy version.
- Use stew meat for a slow-cooked variation.
FAQs
What is the best cut of beef for beef and noodles?
Lean ground beef is ideal for a quick, easy version. It cooks fast and blends well with the sauce. For a more traditional, slow-cooked dish, use chuck roast or stew meat for deeper flavor and tenderness.
Can I make beef and noodles in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Stew meat works best in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until the beef is tender. Add egg noodles during the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
How do I thicken the gravy?
To thicken the gravy, mix flour or cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the broth while simmering until the desired thickness is reached.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Store the cooked dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to restore the sauce’s smooth consistency.
What are the best side dishes for beef and noodles?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, crusty bread, or a crisp green salad make excellent sides, rounding out the meal with texture and variety.
