This hearty dish brings together tender beef, savory broth, and warm noodles for a cozy meal. It’s like a warm hug on a plate that makes you feel right at home!
You’ll love how simple it is to whip this up. I often make it when I want to relive those family dinners. Just remember, the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut gives great flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, you can use beef brisket or even ground beef for a quicker option. Just remember that ground beef will take less time to cook!
Vegetable Oil: I use vegetable oil for browning, but you can also use olive oil or canola oil. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, try using a bit of butter or beef fat.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic boost the dish’s taste. If you’re in a pinch, use onion powder (1 teaspoon) and garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon) instead. But fresh really makes a difference!
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is the best, but store-bought works great if you’re short on time. For a lighter version, try using low-sodium broth, or even chicken broth if necessary.
Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles are classic here, but feel free to swap them out for any pasta you prefer. If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free pasta options available in stores.
How Do I Get My Beef to Be Super Tender?
To achieve tender beef, the key is low and slow cooking. Here are some tips:
- Start by browning the meat in hot oil; this seals in juices and enhances flavor.
- Once you’ve added the liquids, cover the pot. This keeps the moisture in, which helps break down the tough muscle fibers.
- Let it simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Check it occasionally and give it a stir!
Keep in mind, the longer you cook it, the better the flavors will meld, and the beef will become fork-tender!
Grandma’s Classic Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 ½ pounds beef chuck roast or stew meat, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 ½ cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Flavor Base:
For the Broth:
For the Noodles:
For Serving:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and about 1.5 to 2 hours to cook. You’ll spend 5-7 minutes browning the beef, plus a bit of time for chopping onions and garlic. Once the beef is simmering, you can relax until it’s ready. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes. Brown them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes, which helps to seal in the flavors.
2. Sautéing Onions and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. The smell will make the kitchen feel welcoming!
3. Adding Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the beef broth and water. Toss in the bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmering the Beef:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is nice and tender. The longer it cooks, the more flavorful it becomes!
5. Shredding the Beef:
When the beef is tender, remove the bay leaves and use two forks to shred the beef into bite-sized pieces right in the pot. This gives you those delicious, juicy pieces throughout your meal.
6. Cooking the Noodles:
Bring the broth to a gentle boil again and add the wide egg noodles. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-8 minutes, until they’re tender.
7. Finishing Touches:
Stir in the butter, which adds a lovely richness, and taste the broth. Adjust the seasoning with a little more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out the hearty beef and noodles into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your meal warm and cozy, just like Grandma used to make!
This classic recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a chilly evening. Share it with loved ones and enjoy every bite! 🍽️❤️
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, you can substitute it with brisket or even sirloin. Just remember that leaner cuts might cook faster, so adjust the simmering time accordingly for best results.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Simply brown the beef, onion, and garlic as instructed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender and flavorful.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the noodles if necessary.
Can I Freeze the Beef and Noodles?
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
