Crockpot Beef with Noodles Recipe
Introduction What’s Beef with Noodles Recipe
There’s something undeniably comforting about a slow-cooked meal that fills your home with enticing aromas and delivers tender, flavorful results. Crockpot Beef with Noodles is one such recipe—a hearty and satisfying dish that combines succulent beef, rich gravy, and perfectly cooked noodles. Whether you’re planning a weeknight dinner or a meal that can simmer while you handle a busy schedule, this dish will exceed expectations.
This recipe is as simple as it is delicious. Using basic pantry staples like Lipton onion soup mix, brown gravy, and cream of mushroom soup, you can create a luxurious sauce that coats every piece of tender beef and noodles. The slow cooker does most of the work, allowing the flavors to develop over time. What you get is a dish that tastes like it’s been simmering on a stovetop for hours but requires minimal effort.
For those who want to take it to the next level, you can customize this recipe with advanced techniques, such as searing the meat for a deeper flavor or adding fresh herbs for a gourmet twist. The result is a versatile meal that appeals to both beginner and seasoned cooks. Looking for more slow-cooker recipes? This list of crockpot recipes is a fantastic resource for finding inspiration.
Dive into this classic comfort food, perfect for feeding a crowd or savoring leftovers. Let’s explore the simple steps and creative techniques to master this dish!
Ingredients for Crockpot Beef with Noodles
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Crockpot Beef with Noodles Recipe
- Total Time: 3-4 hours
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A simple and savory slow-cooker meal featuring tender beef, a creamy sauce, and egg noodles—perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb stew meat – Ensure the pieces are even for consistent cooking.
- 1 pack Lipton onion soup mix – Adds bold, savory depth.
- 1 pack brown gravy mix – Enhances the sauce’s richness and thickness.
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup (10.5 oz) – The creamy base for the sauce.
- 1 small can mushrooms – Provides a subtle earthy note.
- 1 can beef broth – Use the empty cream of mushroom can for measuring.
- Egg noodles – Cooked and added just before serving for the perfect texture.
Instructions
- Place the stew meat in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix and brown gravy mix over the beef.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup, canned mushrooms (with liquid), and beef broth. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the sauce is thick and flavorful.
- About 20 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and add them to the crockpot, stirring to coat them in the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Substitute fresh mushrooms for canned if you prefer a fresher taste.
- For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Crockpot Beef with Noodles Recipe
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Ingredients
Before starting, gather all your ingredients. Proper preparation makes the process smoother and ensures you don’t miss anything.
- Browning the Meat (Optional): Heat a skillet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Brown the stew meat on all sides for 2–3 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and adds a deeper flavor to the dish.
2. Layering the Crockpot
- Place the browned stew meat at the bottom of your crockpot.
- Sprinkle the Lipton onion soup mix and brown gravy mix evenly over the meat.
- Add the cream of mushroom soup and mushrooms, including their liquid.
- Pour the beef broth on top. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
3. Cooking Process
- Cover the crockpot with the lid.
- Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
4. Cooking the Noodles
- About 20 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions.
- Drain and set the noodles aside.
5. Combining and Serving
- Add the cooked noodles to the crockpot and stir until they’re fully coated in the sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or Parmesan for added flavor.
Looking for more slow-cooker inspiration? Explore these crockpot recipes to discover new favorites.
Tips for Perfect Crockpot Beef with Noodles
Selecting Quality Ingredients
- Stew Meat: Choose well-marbled cuts for the best flavor. Chuck roast or sirloin tips work wonderfully.
- Egg Noodles: Opt for wide egg noodles for better sauce absorption.
Thickening the Sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Add the slurry to the crockpot in the final hour of cooking.
Layering for Better Flavor
Always layer the ingredients strategically, starting with the beef at the bottom. This allows the meat to absorb maximum flavor during cooking.
Advanced Techniques for Enhancing Flavor
1. Searing the Meat
While optional, searing the stew meat before adding it to the crockpot creates a caramelized crust that enhances the beef’s flavor. Use a hot skillet, a little oil, and cook the meat in batches to avoid overcrowding.
2. Homemade Gravy Base
For a gourmet twist, replace the brown gravy mix with a homemade roux. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter, whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour, and cook until golden. Gradually add 1 cup of beef broth and whisk until thickened.
3. Fresh Herbs and Aromatics
- Add fresh rosemary or thyme sprigs to the crockpot for an earthy aroma.
- Sauté minced garlic with the stew meat for a deeper flavor profile.
4. Layering Textures
To create a contrasting texture, toast breadcrumbs or crushed crackers and sprinkle them over the finished dish.
5. Alternative Proteins
Want to switch things up? Use shredded chicken or turkey instead of beef for a lighter version.
See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.
Dietary Adaptations
Gluten-Free Version
- Replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta.
- Use gluten-free gravy mix and onion soup mix.
- Ensure the cream of mushroom soup is labeled gluten-free.
Low-Sodium Option
- Opt for low-sodium beef broth, soup mix, and gravy mix.
- Adjust salt levels to taste, as some pre-packaged mixes can be salty.
Dairy-Free Variation
- Substitute cream of mushroom soup with a dairy-free alternative made from coconut or almond milk.
FAQs about Crockpot Beef with Noodles
1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the beef and sauce in the crockpot, store it in the fridge, and reheat. Add freshly cooked noodles before serving.
2. How do I prevent the noodles from becoming soggy?
Add the noodles to the crockpot just before serving. Alternatively, serve the noodles on the side and ladle the beef mixture on top.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, but freeze the beef and sauce separately from the noodles. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat, then prepare fresh noodles.
4. Can I add vegetables?
Definitely! Carrots, peas, or green beans make excellent additions to this dish. Add them during the last hour of cooking.
5. What can I serve with this dish?
Pair it with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts
Crockpot Beef with Noodles is a classic comfort dish that delivers rich, savory flavors with minimal effort. The slow cooker works its magic, tenderizing the beef and creating a velvety sauce that perfectly coats the noodles.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe offers versatility and unbeatable flavor. Advanced techniques like searing the meat or adding fresh herbs can elevate the dish, while dietary adaptations make it accessible for everyone.
Serve this dish with your favorite sides, and don’t forget to garnish it with fresh parsley or Parmesan for an added touch.
This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and comfort. Give it a try, and enjoy the magic of a home-cooked meal that feels like a warm hug!