Welcome to one of my all-time favorite comfort foods—beef and noodles! There’s something so incredibly cozy about this dish, especially on a chilly evening. It reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, bowls steaming and laughter filling the air. The tender beef, perfectly cooked noodles, and rich broth create a delightful harmony that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without all the fuss. Trust me, once you try this hearty dish, it’ll become a staple in your home too!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious beef and noodles dish. Don’t worry, these ingredients are pretty straightforward and easy to find. Let’s dive in!
- 1 pound beef, sliced (I recommend using a tender cut like sirloin or ribeye for the best results)
- 8 ounces egg noodles (the kind that soak up all that yummy broth)
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade is great if you have it, but store-bought works just fine!)
- 1 onion, chopped (for that sweet, aromatic base)
- 2 carrots, sliced (they add a nice touch of sweetness and color)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (for that lovely crunch and depth of flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for that umami kick)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (to sauté those veggies)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
How to Prepare Instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s easier than you might think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful pot of beef and noodles in no time!
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough that it shimmers but not smoking.
- Next, toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook these beauties for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re softened and fragrant. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
- Now, add the minced garlic and sliced beef to the pot. Cook everything together, stirring frequently, until the beef is nicely browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. You’re building flavor here, so don’t rush it!
- Once the beef is browned, pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Bring this mixture to a boil—it’s about to get delicious!
- When it’s bubbling away, add 8 ounces of egg noodles to the pot. Stir well and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually around 6-8 minutes. You want those noodles to soak up all that savory goodness.
- Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and voilà! Serve hot in bowls, and enjoy every comforting bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just about 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comforting Flavors: It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, with rich beefy broth and tender noodles that make you feel right at home.
- Easy Cleanup: One pot is all you need! Less time cleaning means more time enjoying your meal.
- Versatile: Feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand—zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers work wonderfully!
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this dish, making it a sure hit at the dinner table!
Tips for Success
To make your beef and noodles truly shine, here are a few pro tips! First off, always use tender cuts of beef like sirloin or ribeye; they make all the difference in texture. Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning to your liking—taste as you go! If you want to boost the nutrition and flavor, feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. And remember, if you find the broth a bit too strong, just add more water or broth to mellow it out. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Leftovers are a wonderful perk of this beef and noodles dish, and storing them properly is key to keeping that delicious flavor intact! To store, simply transfer any leftover beef and noodles to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or cozy dinners later in the week.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, just reheat them on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water to prevent sticking and ensure everything heats up evenly. Stir occasionally until it’s warmed through, and you’ll have a comforting meal ready to go in no time!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note before we dive into the numbers! Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these are just estimates. For a hearty serving of beef and noodles, you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 2g
It’s a comforting dish that’s relatively low in calories while still packing a punch in flavor. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ Section
I know you might have some burning questions about making the perfect beef and noodles, and I’m here to help! Let’s dive into some common queries that come up, shall we?
Common Questions
What can I substitute for beef?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or have dietary preferences, you can substitute beef with chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since these proteins cook differently!
Can I use different noodles?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to use any pasta you love—like fettuccine or even rice noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times based on the type of noodle you choose!
How can I make this dish healthier?
To amp up the nutrition, consider adding more veggies like spinach, kale, or broccoli. You can also use whole grain noodles for added fiber, and leaner cuts of beef will help reduce the fat content. Don’t forget to watch the sodium in your broth and soy sauce if you’re keeping an eye on your salt intake!
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the broth and noodles. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours, and you’ll have a deliciously tender meal waiting for you!
Can I freeze beef and noodles?
You sure can! Just let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove!
Serving Suggestions
Beef and noodles is a hearty dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides! I love serving it alongside a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the beef. You could also prepare some steamed broccoli or green beans for a pop of color and crunch. If you’re in the mood for something a little more indulgent, garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up that delicious broth. And don’t forget a warm slice of apple pie for dessert to round off the meal—trust me, it’s the perfect ending!
For more information on the benefits of beef in your diet, you can check out this nutritional guide.
If you’re looking for a delicious dessert to pair with your meal, consider trying this apple pie sandwich cookie recipe.
For a quick and easy side dish, you might enjoy this creamy garlic pasta recipe.
Print
Beef and Noodles: 5 Comforting Secrets You’ll Love
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A hearty dish of beef and noodles cooked in a savory broth.
Ingredients
- 1 pound beef, sliced
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Add minced garlic and sliced beef. Cook until beef is browned.
- Pour in beef broth and soy sauce. Bring to a boil.
- Add egg noodles to the pot. Cook according to package instructions.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use tender cuts of beef for best results.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: beef and noodles, beef noodle soup, comfort food
