Hey y’all! If you’re looking for a meal that’s as comforting as your favorite sweater and as easy as Sunday morning, you’ve landed in the right place. Our Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe is perfect for cozy dinners at home, weekend gatherings, or whenever you need a delicious, fuss-free meal. With tender beef, rich broth, and hearty noodles, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- It’s a set-it-and-forget-it meal, perfect for busy days.
- The beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Simple ingredients make it budget-friendly.
- Great for feeding a crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 packet (1 oz) onion soup mix
- 12 oz egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Directions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef chunks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes total.
Step 2: Prepare the Crockpot
Transfer the seared beef to the crockpot. Pour in the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, and onion soup mix. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef
Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
About 20 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and add the noodles to the crockpot. Stir to combine with the beef and sauce.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir into the crockpot during the last hour of cooking. Learn more about thickening sauces here.
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference.
Variations
- Spicy Beef and Noodles: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for some heat.
- Herbed Beef and Noodles: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist.
- Mushroom Lover’s Beef and Noodles: Double the mushrooms for a heartier dish.
Required Equipment
- Crockpot
- Large skillet
- Pot for boiling noodles
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Suggested Pairings
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Pair with a crusty bread for mopping up the delicious sauce.
- Complement with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.
Pro Tips
- Sear the beef well to develop a rich, deep flavor. Discover more about searing techniques here.
- Don’t add the noodles too early as they can become mushy.
- Use low-sodium broth to better control the salt level.
FAQ
- Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use beef stew meat or another cut suitable for slow cooking.
- What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or make your own mushroom sauce.
- Can I cook it on high to save time? Cooking on low is recommended for the best texture, but you can cook it on high for 4-5 hours if needed.