Beef and Noodles Crockpot Family Favorite
Comfort food at its best, this Beef and Noodles Crockpot recipe is not only easy to prepare but also a hit with the entire family. Imagine coming home to the delightful aroma of tender beef and savory noodles, all ready to serve from your trusty slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines simple ingredients with minimal effort, making it a go-to choice for a hearty meal.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
8 hours
Total Time:
8 hours 15 minutes
Servings:
6 servings
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups egg noodles
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the beef chunks, diced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the crockpot and cover. Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 8 hours or until the beef is tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles and frozen vegetables (if using) to the crockpot. Stir to combine.
- Cover and continue to cook on low until the noodles are tender, about 30 minutes.
- Once done, give everything a good stir and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite
This Beef and Noodles Crockpot recipe is loved by families for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly convenient: simply toss the ingredients into the crockpot in the morning, and let it cook while you go about your day. By dinner time, you’ll have a delicious one-pot meal that requires minimal cleanup.
Second, the flavor is unbeatable. The slow cooking process allows the beef to become incredibly tender and absorb all the delicious spices and broth, creating a rich and savory sauce that pairs perfectly with the noodles. Kids and adults alike will find it hard to resist seconds!
Tips for the Best Beef and Noodles
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
For the best results, use a cut of beef that benefits from slow cooking, such as chuck roast or brisket. These cuts become tender and flavorful after several hours in the crockpot.
Adding Your Favorite Vegetables
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Carrots, peas, or mushrooms work great, and they add extra nutrition and flavor to the dish.
Thickening the Sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the crockpot about 30 minutes before serving. This will help thicken the broth to a gravy-like consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a fresh vegetable side like steamed broccoli or green beans. The creamy and rich flavor of the beef and noodles will complement the freshness of the vegetables beautifully.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen up the sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Noodles Crockpot recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. With its ease of preparation, comforting flavors, and adaptability, it’s no wonder it’s a family favorite. Try it out for your next family dinner, and enjoy the compliments that come your way!
Happy cooking!
