Introduction
Who doesn’t love a warm, hearty meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor? Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is one of those comforting dishes that make you feel right at home. It’s a perfect recipe for busy families, cold days, or whenever you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen.
The best part? You just toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do all the work. The beef becomes super tender, and the noodles soak up all that tasty flavor. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro in the kitchen, this recipe is simple, delicious, and a total crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into how to make it!
Ingredients – Beef and Noodles
Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need for this yummy dish. These are easy to find and budget-friendly.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into cubes)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet of onion soup mix (about 1 oz)
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 package (12 oz) egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (for thickening, optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Grated cheese or sour cream (for extra richness)
Step by Step Process – Beef and Noodles
Making this dish is super easy! Follow these steps:
Step 1: Prep the Slow Cooker
Spray the inside of your slow cooker with a little cooking spray to prevent sticking. If you don’t have spray, brushing with a bit of oil also works.
Step 2: Add the Beef
Place the stew meat or cut-up chuck roast into the slow cooker.
Step 3: Mix the Sauces and Seasoning
In a bowl, mix the cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, garlic powder, pepper, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well so everything blends.
Step 4: Pour and Cook
Pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker. Cover it with the lid.
- Cook on LOW for 8 hours or
- HIGH for 4 to 5 hours
The beef should be very tender when done.
Step 5: Add Noodles
About 30-40 minutes before serving, stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Push them down so they are covered by the broth. If needed, add a little more beef broth or water.
Cover and continue cooking on HIGH for another 30-40 minutes, or until the noodles are soft.
Step 6: Thicken (Optional)
If you like your sauce thicker, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker after the noodles are cooked. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes until thickened.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Scoop the beef and noodles into bowls. Add some chopped parsley or grated cheese if you like. That’s it—easy, tasty, and comforting!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 430 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 38g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 890mg |
| Iron | 4mg |
| Calcium | 50mg |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Chuck roast, stew meat, or even leftover roast beef works well. Just make sure it’s a tender cut after slow cooking.
Q2: Can I use other noodles instead of egg noodles?
Sure! You can try rotini, penne, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different noodles cook at different speeds.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
Let the food cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for about 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a little broth.
Q4: Can I freeze it?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze before adding the noodles. Noodles can get mushy when thawed. Freeze the beef and sauce, and add fresh noodles when reheating.
Q5: Is it okay to add vegetables?
Absolutely! You can toss in carrots, mushrooms, or peas. Add them in the beginning so they cook along with the beef.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is the kind of meal that brings comfort and joy with every bite. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor. Plus, it saves you time in the kitchen. You can set it in the morning and come home to a hot and ready dinner.
Whether it’s a family meal, a potluck dish, or just something cozy for yourself, this recipe is a winner. Try it out, make it your own with little twists, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your home. Happy cooking!
