“`html
If you are craving something comforting, hearty, and downright delicious, this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe is definitely the answer. With tender egg noodles enveloped in a rich, savory beef gravy bursting with garlic and Worcestershire sauce, every bite feels like a warm hug. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly but tastes like you’ve been simmering it for hours. I love how simple ingredients turn into such an irresistible dish everyone at the table will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe lies not only in its incredible taste but in its straightforward ingredients that create a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each one brings something special to the table, from the rich beef broth to the subtle Italian seasoning that adds depth without overpowering.
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles: These offer a tender, silky bite that soaks up the beefy gravy beautifully.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides hearty, flavorful protein without too much fat, keeping the dish light yet satisfying.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness when sautéed, complementing the robustness of the meat.
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses the dish with a warm, aromatic punch.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami richness and a touch of tang to deepen the flavor profile.
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: A hint of herbs rounds out the dish with Mediterranean flair.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the gravy to that perfect, luscious consistency.
- 2 cups beef broth: The liquid base that ties all elements together into a savory sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the other flavors.
How to Make Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Begin by boiling a pot of salted water for the egg noodles, cooking them just until al dente according to the package instructions. Draining them promptly prevents overcooking and ensures they hold their shape and texture when mixed with the saucy beef later.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onions
While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and chopped onions, cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft and translucent. Drain any excess fat if needed—this keeps the dish from being greasy while maintaining flavor.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Next, stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Allow the mixture to cook for about one minute to release the aromatic oils from the garlic and let the Worcestershire sauce meld perfectly with the beef.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef mixture and continuously stir it for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the gravy simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes, thickening into that silky sauce you’ll love. You can add a little more broth if you prefer it thinner.
Step 5: Combine Noodles and Beef Gravy
Finally, toss the drained egg noodles directly into the skillet with the beef mixture. Stir well until every noodle is coated in the rich gravy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking, then serve the dish hot and fresh for maximum comfort.
How to Serve Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes make this dish shine. Try a sprinkle of finely chopped fresh parsley or chives to add a lively pop of color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or roasted carrots. These add a refreshing crunch and brighten the meal without stealing the spotlight from the main attraction.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese. You can also plate it over a bed of sautéed greens for an extra layer of texture and flavor that impresses both family and guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover beef and noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for an even tastier lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well especially if you keep the noodles and beef gravy separate before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently to return it to its comforting glory.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking, and add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the gravy if it thickens too much. The dish is just as satisfying warmed up as freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use other types of noodles for this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic, you can substitute with wide pasta like pappardelle, fettuccine, or even small shells. Just adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.
Is ground beef the only meat option?
Not at all. You can try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version, though the flavor will be milder. For a richer taste, mixing in some ground pork or even diced beef stew meat can also work well.
What can I do if my gravy is too thick or too thin?
If the gravy is too thick, simply stir in a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, continue simmering it uncovered until it reduces and thickens.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you add toppings like sour cream or cheese. Just double-check that your beef broth is dairy-free to keep it safe for sensitive eaters.
Is this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! Because it stores and reheats well, it’s an ideal candidate for meal prepping. Cooking in batches means you’ll have quick, satisfying meals ready to go throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe a try—it’s a comforting, fuss-free meal that feels special every single time. Whether you’re feeding family or just treating yourself after a long day, it hits all the right notes and reminds us how simple ingredients can create something truly delightful.
“`
Print
Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Beef and Noodles recipe is a comforting and hearty meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender egg noodles are combined with flavorful ground beef cooked with onions, garlic, and a rich gravy made from beef broth and a touch of Worcestershire sauce. The dish is thickened with a simple flour-based gravy and seasoned with Italian herbs, making it both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package directions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles well and set them aside.
- Brown Beef and Onions: While the noodles cook, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and chopped onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain off any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burned.
- Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps and create a smooth gravy. Let the mixture simmer for 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken. If the gravy becomes too thick, add a splash more beef broth to achieve your desired consistency.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked egg noodles directly to the skillet and gently toss them with the beef and gravy mixture until well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the dish hot, immediately after combining.
Notes
- Be sure to drain the fat from the cooked ground beef to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Adjust the thickness of the gravy by varying the amount of beef broth as needed.
- You can add some shredded cheese on top for extra richness if desired.
- Fresh herbs like parsley can be sprinkled over the dish before serving for added color and freshness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
