There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of crockpot beef and noodles, isn’t there? This dish has a way of wrapping you in a cozy hug after a long day. I love how simple it is to throw everything into the crockpot and let it work its magic while I tackle other tasks. The rich aroma fills the house, promising a hearty meal that’s ready when you are. With just a few everyday ingredients, you can create a satisfying dinner that pleases the whole family. It’s truly a lifesaver on busy weeknights, ensuring you can enjoy a delicious, homemade meal without the fuss!
Ingredients for Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
How to Prepare Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe
This crockpot beef and noodles recipe is so easy to prepare, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner! Let’s walk through it step by step, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without any stress.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by placing the 2 pounds of beef chuck roast right in the bottom of your crockpot. No need to fuss about cutting it up just yet!
- Next, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. The flavors will meld beautifully as they cook.
- Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, then sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. This is where the magic begins!
- Throw in 1 cup of sliced carrots and 1 cup of chopped celery for some nice texture and color.
- Now, cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours. Trust me, you’ll want that time to let the flavors develop.
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the beef. It should be tender and shreddable! Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded beef to the crockpot, and then add in 8 ounces of egg noodles. Give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
- Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until the noodles are cooked through and delightful.
- Finally, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl, then stir it into the crockpot to thicken the broth. This step is key for that luscious, comforting sauce!
And there you have it! A simple, yet oh-so-satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just a few minutes of chopping and tossing ingredients into the crockpot, you’re free to go about your day while dinner cooks itself.
- Hearty Meal: This dish is the epitome of comfort food! The tender beef, savory broth, and satisfying noodles come together to create a meal that warms the soul.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking in a crockpot means fewer dishes to wash! Just one pot does it all, making cleanup a breeze.
- Perfect for Family Dinners: It’s a crowd-pleaser! The whole family will love it, and you can easily double the recipe for gatherings.
- Leftovers are Great: Trust me, this dish tastes even better the next day. It’s perfect for meal prep and makes for delicious lunches!
Tips for Success with Your Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe
To make your crockpot beef and noodles truly shine, I’ve got some pro tips that’ll help you enhance the flavors and texture of this dish. Trust me, these little adjustments can make a big difference!
- Use Quality Beef: Choose a good quality beef chuck roast. The better the meat, the more flavorful your dish will be! Look for marbling, as it adds richness and tenderness.
- Season to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasonings based on your preference! If you love garlic, add an extra clove or two. And don’t be shy with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant kick!
- Don’t Skip the Broth: Using homemade or quality store-bought beef broth can elevate the dish immensely. It’s the base of the flavor, so go for the good stuff! Learn more about making beef broth.
- Watch the Noodles: Make sure to check the noodles as they cook! Different brands can vary in cooking times, so keep an eye on them during that last 30 minutes to ensure they’re perfectly tender.
- Thickening the Broth: If you want a thicker sauce, you can always add a bit more cornstarch mixture. Just remember to mix it well before stirring it in to avoid clumps.
- Let It Rest: If you can, let the dish sit for about 10 minutes after cooking before serving. It allows the flavors to meld even more, making each bite even more delicious!
With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making the best crockpot beef and noodles ever! Enjoy the cozy vibes and the satisfied smiles at your dinner table.
Variations on Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to mix up this crockpot beef and noodles recipe! Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Vegetable Medley: Swap out the carrots and celery for other veggies like bell peppers, peas, or green beans. You can even toss in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor!
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a little heat. It gives the dish a nice kick without overpowering the comfort of the meal.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a bay leaf can add a lovely aroma and flavor. Just remember to remove the bay leaf before serving!
- Alternative Noodles: If you want to switch it up, try using wide egg noodles, fettuccine, or even whole wheat pasta. Just adjust the cooking time as needed for the noodles you choose!
- Asian Twist: For a different flavor profile, consider adding some soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. You could even switch the beef for chicken or tofu and serve it over rice instead of noodles!
With these variations, you can keep your crockpot beef and noodles exciting and tailored to your taste buds. Enjoy the delicious journey of flavor exploration!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
It’s important to note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. While I strive to provide accurate estimates, precise nutritional values aren’t guaranteed. Generally speaking, this crockpot beef and noodles recipe is considered low-calorie, making it a great choice for a satisfying meal without an overload of calories. For reference, each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
Feel free to adjust the ingredients as needed, but keep in mind that these adjustments will also change the nutritional content. Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious crockpot beef and noodles properly is key to enjoying those cozy leftovers! Once you’ve savored your meal, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. This helps maintain the flavors and prevents any unwanted sogginess. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days, so don’t worry if you can’t finish it all in one sitting!
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Just pour the leftovers into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. This helps keep the noodles from getting mushy, and you can add a splash of broth or water if it seems a bit thick. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave, but be sure to heat it in short intervals and stir in between to ensure even warming.
If you’d like to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the beef and noodles! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag, and it’ll last for about 2–3 months. To reheat from frozen, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the stovetop or microwave reheating instructions. Trust me, you’ll love having this comforting meal ready to go whenever you need it!
FAQ about Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe
Got questions about making this delicious crockpot beef and noodles? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I’ve encountered that can help you nail this recipe.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While I recommend beef chuck roast for its tenderness and flavor, you can also try brisket or even stew meat. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the cut you choose.
What if I don’t have egg noodles?
No problem! You can substitute with wide pasta, fettuccine, or even gluten-free noodles. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to the type of noodles you use, as some may cook faster than others.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and then pop it in the crockpot the next day. Just make sure to add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep them from getting too soft.
How do I add more flavor?
I love adding fresh herbs or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to give it a flavor boost! You can also throw in some bay leaves or a bit of red wine for depth. Just remember to remove any whole herbs before serving!
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can! Just let the beef and noodles cool down, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. It’ll keep well for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier.
What if I want to make it a bit healthier?
You can absolutely lighten this dish up! Consider using leaner cuts of meat or adding extra veggies to the mix. You can also opt for whole wheat noodles for more fiber. Small changes can make a big difference!
I hope these answers help you feel more confident in making this cozy meal! Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any other questions or need further assistance. Happy cooking!
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Crockpot Beef and Noodles Recipe: 7 Steps to Comforting Bliss
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and hearty crockpot beef and noodles recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Place the beef chuck roast in the crockpot.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, salt, and pepper.
- Add carrots and celery.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- Remove the beef and shred it.
- Return the shredded beef to the crockpot.
- Add egg noodles and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high.
- Mix cornstarch and water, stir into the crockpot to thicken.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve with crusty bread.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: crockpot beef and noodles recipe