Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, flavorful beef with hearty noodles in a rich, savory sauce. This dish is a perfect set-it-and-forget-it meal that will make your home smell amazing while it cooks. With minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, it’s a cozy, satisfying dinner ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor. The beef cooks low and slow, becoming melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the noodles absorb all the delicious flavors of the broth and seasonings. It’s a hearty, filling dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your slow cooker collection.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into chunks)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier dish)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Place the beef stew meat, chopped onion, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once the beef is cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker.
- Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker and stir to combine. If the broth has reduced too much, add a little more beef broth to ensure the noodles are submerged.
- Cover and cook on low for an additional 30-45 minutes (or until the noodles are tender). If you want a creamier dish, stir in the heavy cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the beef and noodles hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Include carrots, peas, or potatoes to make this a one-pot meal with added nutrition.
- Use Different Meat: Swap the beef stew meat for pork or chicken for a different variation.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat the beef and noodles in the microwave or on the stovetop. If the dish looks too dry, add a little beef broth or water to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen beef, but it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator before adding it to the slow cooker for more even cooking.
Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes, you can use different types of pasta such as penne, rotini, or even wide egg noodles for variety.
How can I thicken the sauce?
To thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I make this recipe in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can make this recipe in the Instant Pot by using the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function. Cook the beef for 30 minutes, then add the noodles and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding extra spices like garlic powder, onion powder, or even a bay leaf. A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can also add depth to the broth.
Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Yes, you can use ground beef in place of stew meat. Just brown it first before adding it to the slow cooker.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to eat, add the noodles and cook on the stovetop or in the slow cooker until everything is heated through.
How do I know when the beef is done?
The beef is done when it’s fork-tender and easily shreds. If you’re using stew meat, it should break apart easily after cooking for the recommended time.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover beef and noodles. Let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container and storing in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
How can I make this dish creamier?
For a richer, creamier dish, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream towards the end of cooking.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is the perfect combination of simplicity and comfort. The beef becomes incredibly tender after hours of slow cooking, and the noodles soak up all the delicious flavors of the broth. With minimal effort required, this dish is ideal for busy days when you want a home-cooked meal waiting for you. It’s hearty, satisfying, and sure to please the whole family!
Print
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Comfort Food, Slow Cooker, Dinner
- Method: : Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is a cozy, comforting dish that combines tender, shredded beef with hearty egg noodles in a savory broth. This set-it-and-forget-it meal is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With minimal prep time, this easy-to-make recipe is bursting with rich flavors, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you cook it low and slow or opt for a faster high-heat method, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into chunks)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any pasta of your choice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier dish)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Place the beef stew meat, chopped onion, garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper into the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once the beef is cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker.
- Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker and stir to combine. If the broth has reduced too much, add a little more beef broth to ensure the noodles are submerged.
- Cover and cook on low for an additional 30-45 minutes (or until the noodles are tender). For a creamier dish, stir in the heavy cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the beef and noodles hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Add Vegetables: Include carrots, peas, or potatoes for a one-pot meal with extra nutrition.
- Use Different Meat: Swap the beef stew meat for pork or chicken for a variation.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
- Storage/Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop, adding more beef broth if needed.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *