Beef and Noodles
Beef and Noodles is a comforting dish that brings together tender beef and creamy noodles in a rich gravy. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this easy recipe showcases the delicious flavors of ground beef or beef tips, enhanced by the creaminess of mushroom soup. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight meal or something special for guests, Beef and Noodles has got you covered with its satisfying taste and straightforward preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This Beef and Noodles dish can be made in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef, creamy mushroom soup, and cheddar cheese creates a savory experience that will delight your taste buds.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute ingredients based on what you have at home, like using half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its hearty texture and comforting flavors, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
- One-Pot Meal: The simplicity of cooking everything in one skillet minimizes cleanup time, leaving you more time to enjoy your meal.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delightful recipe, gather your essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large measuring cup
- Deep 12-inch skillet
- Spatula
- Large pot
- Colander
Importance of Each Tool
- Deep 12-inch skillet: This allows for even cooking of the beef while providing enough space to combine all ingredients seamlessly.
- Large pot: Needed for boiling the egg noodles to perfection without overcrowding.
Ingredients
Beef and Noodles is an easy recipe that can be made with ground beef or beef tips in a creamy brown gravy with cream of mushroom soup and egg noodles.
For the Sauce:
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (can sub Worcestershire sauce)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon EACH: garlic powder, mustard powder, dried thyme
- ½ cup heavy cream (can sub half and half or milk)
For the Meat:
- 1 lb. ground beef
- Salt/Pepper
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
For the Noodles:
- 1/2 lb. egg noodles (uncooked. See notes.)
For Thickening:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
Final Touch:
- 1 (10.5 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
How to Make Beef and Noodles
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
Combine sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside. Measure out remaining ingredients before beginning.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Lightly season the ground beef with salt and pepper. Heat a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and onions. Cook for approximately 7 to 10 minutes until browned thoroughly. Use a spatula to break up the meat as it cooks. Drain excess grease and transfer to a plate.
Step 3: Boil the Noodles
As you continue with other steps, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Step 4: Make the Gravy Base
Melt butter over medium heat in the same skillet used for cooking the meat. Add garlic and cook for about 1 minute. Stir in flour; cook for another minute until it begins to brown.
Step 5: Combine Sauce Ingredients
Add sauce mixture gradually while stirring continuously. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer. Stir in cream of mushroom soup; let it simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes.
Step 6: Cook Noodles
Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain well.
Step 7: Finish the Dish
Reduce heat to low; stir in cheese until melted completely, then add cooked beef back into skillet.
Step 8: Mix Everything Together
Add cooked noodles into the mixture, stirring well to combine. The sauce will thicken as it stands. Serve hot!
How to Serve Beef and Noodles
Beef and Noodles is a comforting dish that pairs well with various sides and garnishes. Here are some creative ways to serve this delicious meal.
Classic Garnishes
- Chopped Parsley: Adds a fresh touch to your plate, enhancing the flavor profile.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of cheese can elevate the creaminess of the dish.
Accompaniments
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy gravy, making each bite even tastier.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans add color and nutrition to your meal.
Serving Style
- In a Bowl: Serve Beef and Noodles in deep bowls for a cozy dining experience.
- On a Platter: For gatherings, present it on a large platter for guests to serve themselves.
How to Perfect Beef and Noodles
To make the best Beef and Noodles, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
- Brown the Meat Well: Ensuring that the beef is browned adequately adds depth to the flavor.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cooking them al dente keeps them firm and prevents mushiness in the dish.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Always taste your sauce before serving; feel free to add more spices if needed.
- Let it Rest Before Serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together.
- Experiment with Cheese Varieties: While cheddar is classic, adding different cheeses can give unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Beef and Noodles
Pairing side dishes with Beef and Noodles can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing complements the richness of Beef and Noodles.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The earthy flavor of Brussels sprouts pairs beautifully with beef dishes.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a comforting side that goes well with gravy.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings a nice contrast in texture and flavor.
- Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances out the heaviness of the main dish.
- Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans complements savory flavors nicely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Beef and Noodles, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the noodles: This can lead to mushy pasta. Always cook your egg noodles al dente, as they will continue to soften in the sauce.
- Not seasoning properly: A lack of seasoning can make your dish bland. Ensure you season the beef and the sauce adequately with salt, pepper, and other spices.
- Skipping the cream of mushroom soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. Don’t skip this key ingredient; it is essential for achieving the right consistency in Beef and Noodles.
- Using low-quality beef: Poor quality meat can result in tough textures. Opt for fresh ground beef or tender beef tips for better flavor and tenderness.
- Neglecting to drain excess grease: Leaving grease can make your dish oily. Always drain any excess fat after cooking the meat for a cleaner taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Beef and Noodles can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Beef and Noodles
- Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Beef and Noodles
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a covered dish and heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently until hot. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes depending on your microwave power.
- Stovetop: Use medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, stir until heated thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about preparing Beef and Noodles:
Can I use different types of beef?
Yes! You can substitute ground beef with beef tips or even cubed steak based on your preference.
How do I make Beef and Noodles gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free egg noodles and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I enhance the flavor of Beef and Noodles?
Consider adding additional spices like paprika or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor without overpowering it.
What side dishes pair well with Beef and Noodles?
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you could serve it with a simple salad or steamed vegetables for balance.
Final Thoughts
Beef and Noodles is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like peas or carrots or using different cheese types. Its creamy texture combined with tender beef makes it irresistible, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Beef and Noodles
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Beef and Noodles is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table. This creamy, savory dish combines tender beef with egg noodles in a rich mushroom gravy, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its straightforward preparation and delightful flavors, Beef and Noodles can quickly become your family’s favorite meal. In just 40 minutes, you can create a hearty dish that will please even the pickiest eaters. Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese and a side of garlic bread for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- ½ lb egg noodles (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large measuring cup, combine beef broth, chicken bouillon, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, mustard powder, dried thyme, and heavy cream. Set aside.
- In a deep skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions for about 7-10 minutes; drain excess grease.
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook egg noodles until al dente; drain.
- In the same skillet used for the beef, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and flour; cook for one minute.
- Gradually pour in the sauce mixture while stirring continuously until boiling; reduce heat to simmer and stir in cream of mushroom soup.
- Stir in cooked noodles and cheddar cheese until melted; combine well with the beef mixture.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 471
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 82mg
