Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe: Effortless Comfort Food for Busy Nights

Nothing beats a warm, hearty meal after a long day, and this Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe is the perfect comfort food. With minimal preparation and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal with little effort. Tender beef, flavorful broth, and perfectly cooked noodles combine to create a satisfying dish the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply add the ingredients to the crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day.
• Rich and Flavorful: The slow cooking process enhances the beef’s flavor and creates a deliciously savory broth.
• Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different seasonings or vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for creaminess)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Trim excess fat from the beef chuck roast and cut it into large chunks.

Step 2: Slow Cook the Beef

• Place the beef chunks into the crockpot.
• Add the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, garlic powder, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Stir gently to combine the ingredients.
• Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and easily shredded.

Step 3: Shred the Beef

• Remove the cooked beef from the crockpot and shred it using two forks.
• Return the shredded beef to the crockpot and stir to mix with the broth.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

• About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles to the crockpot.
• Stir and ensure the noodles are submerged in the broth.
• Cover and cook on high for 25-30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

• If using sour cream, stir it in just before serving for a creamier texture.
• Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Mix in peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Thicker Sauce: Mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 1 tablespoon water) before adding the noodles.
• Cheesy Option: Stir in shredded cheese at the end for a richer flavor.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
• Total Time: About 8 hours

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, adding extra broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, chuck roast is ideal, but you can also use stew meat, brisket, or round roast.

Can I use frozen beef?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw it first for even cooking and better seasoning absorption.

What if I don’t have egg noodles?

You can substitute with any pasta, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Pressure cook the beef for 45 minutes on high, then manually release pressure, shred the beef, and cook the noodles on the sauté setting.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Omit the cream of mushroom soup or use a dairy-free alternative, and skip the sour cream.

How do I prevent the noodles from becoming mushy?

Add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking and check for doneness frequently.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.

Can I use homemade broth?

Absolutely! Homemade beef broth adds even more depth to the flavor.

How do I thicken the broth?

A cornstarch slurry or extra cream of mushroom soup can help thicken the sauce.

Can I prepare this in advance?

Yes! Cook the beef in advance and store it in the fridge, then reheat and add the noodles before serving.

Conclusion

This Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe is the ultimate comfort food that requires minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a delicious and hearty choice. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal with ease!

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