This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, slow-cooked beef with rich, flavorful broth and hearty egg noodles. This one-pot meal requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless cooking – The slow cooker does most of the work, making this a stress-free recipe.
- Rich and hearty – Tender beef in a savory broth with thick, comforting noodles.
- One-pot convenience – Minimal cleanup with everything cooked in one pot.
- Family-friendly – A crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will love.
- Versatile – Can be easily customized with different seasonings or added vegetables.
Ingredients
- Beef chuck roast or stew meat
- Onion
- Garlic
- Beef broth
- Worcestershire sauce
- Soy sauce
- Italian seasoning
- Black pepper
- Egg noodles
- Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Butter
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Directions
- Prepare the beef – Trim excess fat from the beef and cut it into chunks if not already pre-cut.
- Sear (optional) – For added flavor, sear the beef in a skillet with a little butter or oil until browned on all sides.
- Load the slow cooker – Add the beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, and black pepper into the slow cooker.
- Slow cook – Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and easily shreddable.
- Shred the beef – Use two forks to pull apart the meat directly in the slow cooker.
- Thicken the broth (optional) – If a thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the broth. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Cook the noodles – Add egg noodles to the slow cooker in the last 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.
- Finish and serve – Stir in butter for added richness. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Variations
- Vegetable Boost – Add mushrooms, carrots, or peas for extra nutrients.
- Creamy Version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream for a richer consistency.
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free noodles or serve over mashed potatoes.
- Different Proteins – Try using chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
- Total Time: 7-8 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat, adding extra broth if needed to loosen the noodles.
FAQs
How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?
Add them during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking and check frequently for doneness.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, but egg noodles are ideal due to their texture. If using other pasta, adjust cooking time accordingly.
What cut of beef is best for this recipe?
Chuck roast is the best choice due to its marbling, which makes it tender after slow cooking.
Can I make this without a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook it on the stovetop over low heat for 3-4 hours, or in an oven at 300°F for the same time.
How can I make it more flavorful?
Try adding a splash of red wine, fresh herbs, or a bay leaf to deepen the flavors.
Can I use frozen beef?
Yes, but for best results, thaw it first to ensure even cooking.
Can I cook this overnight?
Yes, cook on low and set a timer so it doesn’t overcook.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with a side of roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or crusty bread.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Omit the butter and ensure your egg noodles do not contain dairy.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the extra ingredients.
Conclusion
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is the perfect meal for when you need something warm, hearty, and delicious with minimal effort. With simple ingredients and an easy process, this dish delivers deep, comforting flavors that the whole family will love. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or as a make-ahead meal for the week, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Try it today and savor every bite!
Print
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles (Easy One-Pot)
- Total Time: 7-8 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A comforting and easy Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe with tender beef, rich broth, and hearty egg noodles. A one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast or stew meat, trimmed and cut into chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the beef – Trim excess fat from the beef and cut it into chunks if not already pre-cut.
- Sear (optional) – For added flavor, sear the beef in a skillet with a little butter or oil until browned on all sides.
- Load the slow cooker – Add the beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, and black pepper into the slow cooker.
- Slow cook – Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beef is tender and easily shreddable.
- Shred the beef – Use two forks to pull apart the meat directly in the slow cooker.
- Thicken the broth (optional) – If a thicker sauce is desired, mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the broth. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Cook the noodles – Add egg noodles to the slow cooker in the last 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until tender.
- Finish and serve – Stir in butter for added richness. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Vegetable Boost – Add mushrooms, carrots, or peas for extra nutrients.
- Creamy Version – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream for a richer consistency.
- Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free noodles or serve over mashed potatoes.
- Different Proteins – Try using chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles, One-Pot Meal, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Family-Friendly Recipe
){kind=link}
No comment