This Easy Beef and Noodles dish is a warm, comforting meal perfect for busy nights. With tender beef and soft noodles, it’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Honestly, I can whip this up in no time, and it’s a hit every time. Plus, my family goes back for seconds—just don’t tell them how simple it really is! 🍜
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. I use lean ground beef for less grease. If you want a leaner option, turkey or chicken can work too. For a vegetarian twist, try using lentils or a meat substitute.
Egg Noodles: They’re classic for this recipe and cook quickly. However, whole wheat noodles or gluten-free pasta can be great options. Just adjust cooking times as per their package instructions.
Onion and Garlic: Essential for flavor, they bring the dish to life! If you’re short on time, you could use onion powder and garlic powder instead. Fresh is definitely best, though!
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the dish. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or use low-sodium broth to keep it healthier.
Cheese and Sour Cream: These are totally optional but add creaminess. Cream cheese or Greek yogurt are good alternatives if you want something different but creamy!
How Do You Get the Beef Just Right?
Cooking ground beef may seem straightforward, but getting it perfect is key! Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your skillet on medium-high. Always make sure it’s hot to keep the meat from steaming.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if needed, cook in batches.
- Cook until it’s a rich brown and no pink is visible, usually 5-7 minutes. Draining excess fat helps keep it from being greasy.
- For a flavor boost, don’t forget to season with salt and pepper as it cooks!
With these tips, your beef will be flavorful and ready to mix with the noodles in no time!
Easy Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
For Optional Additions:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
Other Essentials:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-25 minutes total, with around 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once they are tender, drain them and set them aside. This is the perfect time to check on your other ingredients!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they are translucent and fragrant. This step really brings a lovely flavor!
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want it nicely browned with no pink remaining. Drain any excess fat for a leaner dish!
4. Add the Broth and Seasoning:
Now, stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and any optional seasoning you like (thyme or Italian seasoning). Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes. This is where the flavors come together!
5. Combine with Noodles:
Add the cooked noodles to the beef mixture, stirring well to combine. Lower the heat to keep it warm; the noodles will soak up some delicious flavor.
6. Creaminess and Cheese:
If you like, stir in the sour cream to add creamy goodness. Then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for a few minutes.
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, taste your dish and season with salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious, comforting Easy Beef and Noodles!
Bon appétit! This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, and leftovers (if there are any!) are fantastic for lunch the next day!
FAQ for Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times and seasonings accordingly to suit your choice!
What If I Don’t Have Egg Noodles?
No problem! You can use any type of pasta you have on hand, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and cook the noodles in advance. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove and combine, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the beef and noodle mixture for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
