This Easy Homemade Beef and Noodles dish is all about comfort and flavor! Tender beef is simmered to perfection with chewy noodles, making it a cozy meal that’s perfect for any night.
I love how simple this recipe is! You just throw everything in one pot and let it cook. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day—if you can resist eating it all in one sitting! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for a healthier option. If you prefer, turkey or even plant-based ground meat works as a great substitute!
Beef Broth: The broth adds depth to the flavor. You can use low-sodium beef broth or a homemade version. Vegetable broth is also an excellent alternative if you want a lighter taste.
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional, but feel free to experiment with whole-wheat noodles, or gluten-free pasta if you have dietary restrictions. Cooking times may vary!
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient gives a nice umami flavor. If you’re out, soy sauce can work in a pinch, though it will add a different taste.
How Do I Make Sure the Beef is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the beef properly is key to this dish. Start by using medium heat and break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. This promotes even cooking and helps it brown nicely.
- Drain excess fat after browning if needed to avoid greasy noodles.
- Cook until no longer pink—this usually takes about 6-8 minutes.
- Always taste your beef after cooking and adjust seasonings if necessary!
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Noodles?
To get perfect noodles, wait until the broth is boiling before adding them. If you add them too early, they can become mushy.
- Reduce heat to medium-low once you add the noodles to prevent them from overcooking.
- Cover the pot to help maintain a steady temperature, and stir occasionally.
- Check for doneness around the 10-minute mark—taste a noodle to see if it’s to your liking!
Easy Homemade Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be ready to eat in about 35 minutes! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until they’re soft and fragrant. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish!
2. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s a lot of excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
3. Add Vegetables:
Once the beef is ready, stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook for another 3 minutes until they start to soften. This adds yummy crunch and flavor to the dish!
4. Create the Broth:
Pour in the beef broth and water. Then add the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, which allows all those flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Noodles:
Once it’s boiling, add the egg noodles to the pot. Lower the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes. This should cook the noodles perfectly—just stir occasionally to avoid clumping!
6. Taste and Adjust:
After cooking, give your dish a taste. You might want to add a pinch more salt or pepper to suit your taste. Every kitchen is different!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is cooked and seasoned to your liking, serve it hot. Enjoy your comforting homemade beef and noodles with some crusty bread or a fresh salad on the side!
This recipe is straightforward and perfect for a hearty family meal! Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ About Easy Homemade Beef and Noodles
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed, especially for leaner meats.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, add the broth and noodles, and cook as directed. Just be mindful that the noodles may absorb some liquid, so you may need to add a little extra broth when reheating.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to retain moisture and prevent the noodles from becoming too dry.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or green beans. Just be sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them during the vegetable cooking step to ensure they get tender.
