The aroma of Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles wafts through the air, filling your home with a warm, inviting scent that beckons everyone to the dinner table. Imagine tender beef that practically melts in your mouth, lovingly enveloped by rich, savory noodles that dance in a luscious sauce. Just thinking about it makes my stomach growl like a bear after hibernation.
This dish is not just food; itβs comfort wrapped in a cozy blanket of flavor. Picture yourself on a chilly evening, coming home to this delightful creation bubbling away in your slow cooker. Itβs the kind of meal that transforms an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion, with each bite bringing back fond memories of family dinners and laughter around the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe offers incredible flavor while being super easy to prepare
- The ingredients blend together beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Visually appealing with its rich colors, itβs sure to impress anyone who sees it
- Plus, you can easily customize it based on whatβs in your pantry!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
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Beef Chuck Roast: A well-marbled cut works best for maximum tenderness when cooked low and slow.
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Egg Noodles: These noodles soak up the delicious sauce perfectly and add a comforting texture.
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Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while still delivering rich flavor.
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Onion: A sweet onion adds depth; sautΓ©ing it first can enhance its sweetness even more.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic punch that elevates the entire experience.
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Carrots: Sliced carrots provide a hint of sweetness and vibrant color, making this dish visually appealing.
For the Seasoning:
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Worcestershire Sauce: This adds complexity and umami flavors that make every bite irresistible.
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Dried Thyme: A little sprinkle enhances the earthy notes without overpowering the other flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Beef
Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef chuck roast. Cut it into large chunks for even cooking and season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add some oil and sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavors like your grandma locking her cookie jarβessential!
Step 3: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker
Place the browned beef into your slow cooker along with chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and beef broth. Stir everything together like youβre mixing up some magical potion.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about six to eight hours or until your house smells like heaven (and the beef becomes fork-tender).
Step 5: Prepare Your Noodles
About thirty minutes before serving time, cook your egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them well but donβt forget to reserve some pasta waterβitβs liquid gold for this dish!
Step 6: Combine It All Together
Once everything is ready, gently fold the cooked noodles into the slow cooker with the beef mixture. If it looks too thick (like trying to squeeze into last yearβs jeans), add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Now you have an irresistible bowl of Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles ready to share! Enjoy every bite as you reminisce about your childhood dinners or plan new memories around this hearty meal.
You Must Know
- This comforting slow cooker beef and noodles dish is a game-changer for busy weeknights
- Itβs rich, hearty, and packed with flavor while being incredibly easy to prepare
- You can adjust the ingredients based on your familyβs tastes, making it a versatile favorite in any home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, start by searing the beef in a hot skillet. This enhances the flavor. Next, combine everything in your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you sip on something refreshing.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out egg noodles for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You might also experiment with seasonings like garlic powder or Italian herbs to give the dish a unique twist that suits your palate.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it from drying out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender beef, choose chuck roast and sear it well before cooking
- Avoid lifting the lid of your slow cooker too often; steam is your friend!
- Finally, donβt rush the cooking time; let those flavors develop beautifully
One time, I made this dish for a family gathering, and my aunt declared it βthe best thing since sliced bread.β She even asked for secondsβnow thatβs what I call a win!
FAQs :
What is the cooking time for Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles?
The cooking time for Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles generally ranges from 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat. This slow cooking method allows the beef to become tender and flavorful, absorbing all the delicious seasonings. Adjusting the time based on your slow cooker model is essential, as some cook faster or slower than others. Always check that the beef reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 145Β°F before serving. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.
Can I use different types of noodles in this recipe?
Yes, you can use various types of noodles in your Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe. While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to try alternatives like wide rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Just ensure that you add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking. Adjust the liquid levels accordingly since different noodles absorb varying amounts of moisture during cooking.
How do I store leftovers from Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles?
To store leftovers from your Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles safely, let the dish cool down to room temperature first. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When reheating, make sure the beef reaches a safe temperature of 165Β°F before enjoying it again.
Can I add vegetables to my Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables to your Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles enhances both flavor and nutrition. Carrots, peas, bell peppers, or green beans work wonderfully in this dish. Chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them during the last hour of cooking if using low heat or within the last 30 minutes on high heat to ensure they remain tender but not mushy.
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles :
In conclusion, preparing Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is a simple yet satisfying meal option that brings comfort to any table. With minimal prep time and ingredients like tender beef, flavorful broth, and hearty noodles, this dish delivers great taste effortlessly. Remember to adjust cooking times based on your slow cookerβs performance and feel free to personalize it with your favorite vegetables. Enjoy this cozy dish with family or friends for a delightful experience!
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles
- Total Time: 36 minute
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights. This hearty dish features tender beef chuck roast simmered in savory beef broth, paired with egg noodles and vibrant carrots. With minimal prep, just set your slow cooker and let it work its magic, filling your home with an inviting aroma and creating a meal that will bring everyone to the table. Enjoy each satisfying bite, making this recipe a new family favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the beef and cut into large chunks. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides.
- Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker and add chopped onions, minced garlic, sliced carrots, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente; drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Gently fold cooked noodles into the slow cooker with the beef mixture. Add reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 875mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Substitute egg noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for variations. For added nutrition, include vegetables like peas or bell peppers during the last hour of cooking.