Description
If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and packed with rich flavor, this Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe will hit the spot. Tender chunks of beef are slow-cooked to perfection, then mixed with hearty egg noodles in a savory, creamy sauce. It’s the kind of meal that warms your soul—perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or chilly days when you just want something satisfying and fuss-free.
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Ingredients
For the Beef & Broth:
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2 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into chunks
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1 tbsp vegetable oil
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1 small onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp dried thyme
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3 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp soy sauce
For the Noodles & Sauce:
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12 oz egg noodles (wide or extra wide)
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1 cup water (or as needed)
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1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
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½ cup sour cream (optional, for creamier texture)
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2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
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Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add beef chunks in batches, searing on all sides until browned. This adds flavor and locks in moisture.
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Transfer browned beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
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In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
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Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
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Transfer onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
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Season everything in the slow cooker with salt, pepper, onion powder, paprika, and thyme.
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Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Stir to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef
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Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and shreds easily.
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Once done, gently shred or break apart larger chunks of beef using a fork.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles Separately
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About 20 minutes before serving, boil egg noodles according to package directions.
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Drain well and set aside.
Step 5: Create the Sauce & Combine
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Stir cream of mushroom soup into the slow cooker.
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Add sour cream if using, and mix until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
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Fold in the cooked noodles. If the mixture is too thick, add up to 1 cup of water or extra broth to loosen it.
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Let everything warm together on Low for 10–15 minutes.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
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Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.
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Serve hot in bowls with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Notes
Brown the Beef – Searing adds deeper flavor to the finished dish.
Use Low-Sodium Broth – Helps control salt levels with the sauces.
Cook Noodles Separately – Prevents them from becoming mushy in the slow cooker.
Make It Creamier – Add sour cream, cream cheese, or a splash of heavy cream.
Reheat Gently – To maintain texture, warm on low heat or in the microwave with a splash of water.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours (on low)
- Cuisine: American