Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles is a heartwarming dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, from weeknight meals to special gatherings. With tender beef, rich broth, and hearty egg noodles, it embodies comfort food at its finest. The standout feature of this dish is its simplicity—effortless to prepare yet packed with flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: This dish is a warm hug on a plate, combining savory beef and noodles in a delicious broth.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can whip up this meal quickly.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy every bite, making it a hit at family dinners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or pair it with sides like steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for batch cooking; simply reheat leftovers for busy nights.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some essential kitchen tools that will help you along the way.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle
• Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking the beef until it’s tender and flavorful.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for consistent results.

Ingredients

This Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles recipe is just like Grandma used to make – talk about comfort food at its best!

For the Beef Stew

• 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 3-4 pound beef chuck roast
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 Tbsp onion soup mix
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Noodles

• 16 oz. egg noodles

For Thickening

• fresh parsley (for garnishing)
• 3 Tbsp corn starch
• 2 Tbsp water
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups reserved cooking liquid
• 2 Tbsp ketchup
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

How to Make Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

Step 1: Sear the Beef

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef chuck roast and sear on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side).
3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add diced onion and minced garlic.
2. Sauté until the onions are translucent (about 3-5 minutes).

Step 3: Build Flavor

1. Stir in onion soup mix, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and black pepper.
2. Return the seared beef to the pot.
3. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low.

Step 4: Cook Slowly

1. Let the beef cook slowly for about 6-8 hours or until tender.
2. Check occasionally to ensure there’s enough liquid; add water if needed.

Step 5: Prepare Noodles

1. Once ready, remove the beef from the pot and shred it using two forks.
2. In another pot, cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain when done.

Step 6: Thicken Sauce

1. Combine corn starch with water in a small bowl; mix well.
2. Add it to the reserved cooking liquid in your large pot along with butter and flour; stir until thickened.

Step 7: Combine Everything

1. Return shredded beef into the sauce mixture.
2. Add cooked egg noodles; stir until everything is well combined.

Step 8: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.

Enjoy your delightful bowl of Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

Serving Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles is all about enhancing the comfort and warmth of this classic dish. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy your meal.

Classic Serving Suggestions

• With Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
• On a Bed of Noodles: Serve the beef mixture over a generous portion of egg noodles for the traditional experience.
• In a Deep Bowl: Use deep bowls to keep the broth warm, making it perfect for those chilly evenings.

Accompaniments to Consider

• Crusty Bread: Add slices of crusty bread on the side for dipping into the rich broth.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the beef beautifully and add extra comfort.
• Steamed Vegetables: A side of steamed green beans or carrots balances the meal with some lightness.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

To ensure your Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select a well-marbled beef chuck roast for maximum flavor and tenderness.
• Sear the Meat Well: Browning the beef before slow cooking enhances its flavor significantly.
• Use Homemade Broth: If possible, opt for homemade beef broth to deepen the taste of your dish.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to adjust salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to suit your preference.
• Thicken Wisely: Mix cornstarch with water before adding it to avoid clumps when thickening your sauce.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest after cooking; this helps meld flavors and improves texture.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

Pairing sides with Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this hearty dish.

1. Garlic Bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious broth.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts add depth and balance to your plate.
4. Crispy Salad: A simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly can refresh your palate between bites.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic choice that pairs well with the savory beef flavors.
6. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes offer another comforting starch option that’s easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many people make simple mistakes when preparing Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles that can affect the flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid.

• Using low-quality beef: Choosing a tough cut of meat can lead to a chewy dish. Opt for a good quality beef chuck roast for tenderness.
• Skipping browning the meat: Not browning the beef before cooking can result in less flavor. Always sear the meat to enhance its richness.
• Neglecting seasoning: Under-seasoning can make your dish bland. Don’t be afraid to add salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for depth.
• Not using enough broth: Reducing liquid too much can dry out the dish. Ensure you have sufficient broth for the noodles to soak up flavor.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions and check for al dente texture before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can last up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warm throughout.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles?

Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles is a hearty American dish featuring tender beef cooked with egg noodles in a flavorful broth. It’s comfort food at its finest.

How can I customize Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles?

You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and color. Additionally, try different herbs for varied flavors.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Yes, using chicken thighs or breasts will yield a delicious variation of Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I thicken my sauce in Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles?

To thicken the sauce, mix corn starch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the simmering liquid until it thickens.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and comfort. With its rich flavors and tender noodles, it’s perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or vegetables!