Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe

Crockpot beef and noodles is a cozy, comforting meal perfect for busy days or family gatherings. This dish features tender beef slow-cooked in a rich broth, combined with hearty egg noodles that soak up all the flavors. It’s the ultimate comfort food that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply add your ingredients to the crockpot and let it work its magic while you attend to other tasks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of au jus, brown gravy, and onion soup mix creates a deep, satisfying taste that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion—be it a comforting weeknight dinner or a hearty meal for guests.
• Family-Friendly: Kids will love the tender beef and noodles, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks together in the crockpot.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Crockpot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups
• Large spoon for stirring

Why These Tools Matter

• Crockpot: Slow cooks your ingredients evenly, allowing flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for prepping vegetables quickly and safely.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate portions of liquids for perfect results every time.

Ingredients

Crockpot beef and noodles is a cozy, comforting meal made with tender beef slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful broth and tossed with hearty noodles for a meal the whole family will love.

For the Beef:

• 1.5-2 Pounds Stew Meat

For the Flavor:

• 1 Oz Packet Au Jus
• 1 Oz Packet Brown Gravy
• 1 Oz Packet Onion Soup Mix
• 1 Medium Onion, diced

For Cooking:

• 1 Cup Water
• 1 Cup Beef Broth

For Serving:

• 12 Oz Egg Noodles, cooked

How to Make Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Add the stew meat to the crockpot. Sprinkle the onion soup mix, au jus, and brown gravy packets on top of the meat. Then add the diced onion evenly over everything.

Step 2: Add Liquid Ingredients

Pour in both the water and beef broth into the crockpot. Give everything a nice big stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 3: Set Up Your Crockpot

Place the lid on your crockpot securely. Set it on low heat for 6 hours so that all flavors can blend perfectly while cooking.

Step 4: Stir and Break Up Beef

After six hours of cooking, remove the lid. Stir everything together gently while breaking up any larger chunks of beef to ensure even distribution throughout.

Step 5: Final Touches

Finally, stir in the cooked egg noodles until they are well-incorporated into the mixture. Serve warm and enjoy this delightful dish!

How to Serve Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe

Crockpot beef and noodles is a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme: A few sprigs of thyme add an aromatic touch that complements the beef.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping into the rich broth.
• Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls can be perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.

Add Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant side adds nutrition and a nice crunch.
• Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots offer a delightful contrast to the savory beef.

Create a Salad Bar

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Caesar Salad: For a classic option, serve a Caesar salad with crunchy croutons.

How to Perfect Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe

To ensure your crockpot beef and noodles come out perfectly every time, consider these simple tips.

• Bold seasoning: Use herbs like rosemary or bay leaves for deeper flavor in your broth.
• Quality meat: Choose good quality stew meat for tenderness; grass-fed options are often more flavorful.
• Don’t rush it: Cooking on low for 6 hours allows flavors to meld beautifully; avoid cooking on high.
• Add veggies: Toss in carrots or peas during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition and taste.
• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix cornstarch with water and stir it in 30 minutes before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe

Complementing your crockpot beef and noodles with great side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options!

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with the savory beef.
2. Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds add a crunchy texture.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw offers a crisp contrast to the warm noodles.
4. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is great for soaking up the delicious broth.
5. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be loaded with toppings to add variety.
6. Seasoned Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs makes for an easy and tasty side.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your crockpot beef and noodles, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the beef can lead to less flavor. Take a moment to brown the beef in a pan before adding it to the crockpot for richer taste.
• Ignoring Cook Times: Cooking on high instead of low can result in tougher meat. Always use low for recommended times to ensure tenderness.
• Overloading with Ingredients: Adding too many vegetables can dilute the flavor. Stick to the recipe and add veggies like carrots or peas only if you want extra.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Insufficient liquid can lead to burnt edges. Ensure there’s enough broth and water; it should cover the beef entirely.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Different brands of seasoning packets may vary in saltiness. Taste and adjust seasonings at the end of cooking for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best freshness.

Freezing Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
• It’s best enjoyed within 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring midway.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cut of beef for this Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe?

The best cuts are chuck roast or stew meat as they become tender when cooked slowly.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes! You can substitute egg noodles with wide pasta or even gluten-free varieties as desired.

How do I customize my Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe?

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare everything in advance and store it in your crockpot until you’re ready to cook.

Conclusion

Crockpot beef and noodles is a delightful meal that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various vegetables or noodle types, making it perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a deliciously cozy dinner!