Easy Homemade Beef and Noodles Recipe

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this easy homemade Beef and Noodles recipe. Perfectly cooked beef, savory mushrooms, onions, and garlic come together in a rich gravy, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Best of all, this no-canned-soup recipe is ready in less than 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 ¼ lbs. beef steak, cut into bite-sized pieces (see notes for recommended cuts)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 16 ounces white button mushrooms, halved
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon marjoram
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 2 ½ cups low sodium beef broth
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 ½ tablespoons cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Heat Oil:
   Heat the vegetable oil in a heavy skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Brown the Beef:
   Add the beef to the skillet and brown on both sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and place it on a plate. Cover to keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

3. Melt Butter:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
4. Cook Onions and Mushrooms:
   Add the chopped onions and halved mushrooms, cooking until the onions are soft and the mushrooms are golden brown, approximately 7-8 minutes.
5. Add Garlic and Herbs:
   Reduce the heat to low. Add the minced garlic, marjoram, and thyme, cooking for 1 minute while stirring. Remove the mushroom mixture from the skillet and place it on a plate. Cover to keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Noodles

6. Boil Noodles:
   Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package directions and drain well.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

7. Prepare Gravy Base:
   Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Bring to a low boil while scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate the brown bits.
8. Thicken Gravy:
   Mix the cornstarch with 1/4 cup cold water and whisk into the skillet. Simmer until thickened, whisking frequently.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

9. Combine Ingredients:
   Add the browned beef and mushroom mixture back to the skillet, warming for 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve:
    Serve the beef and mushroom mixture over the cooked egg noodles. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips for the Perfect Beef and Noodles

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

• Tender Cuts: Use a lean, tender cut of beef like tenderloin, petite shoulder, ribeye, or strip for the best results.
• Budget-Friendly Options: For a more economical choice, consider using ground beef or ground turkey.

Perfecting the Gravy

• Consistency: If the gravy becomes too thick, whisk in a little more beef broth until you reach the desired consistency. Remember to add the broth a little at a time.
• Flavor: Make sure to scrape up all the delicious brown bits from the bottom of the skillet when making the gravy. These bits add a rich flavor to the sauce.

Additional Tips

• Mushrooms: Use white button or cremini mushrooms for the best texture and flavor.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish can be served over egg noodles, rice, mashed potatoes, or even toast for a comforting meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave at reduced power or on the stovetop on low heat.
• Freezing: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the mushrooms changes after being frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the beef with ground beef, ground turkey, or even chicken. Adjust the cooking times as necessary to ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or a combination of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar for a similar flavor profile.

How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Use a tender cut of beef and avoid overcooking it. Browning the beef quickly and then letting it finish cooking in the gravy will help keep it tender.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, peas, or green beans for additional flavor and nutrition.

What can I use instead of egg noodles?

You can use any type of pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes as a base for this dish. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and a gluten-free thickener, such as arrowroot or a gluten-free flour blend, instead of cornstarch.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef and mushroom mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat and combine with freshly cooked noodles.

How can I enhance the flavor of the dish?

Adding a splash of red wine to the gravy or using beef bouillon cubes in the broth can enhance the depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can also be added for an extra aromatic touch.

What should I serve with Beef and Noodles?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine or a cold beer also complements the flavors nicely.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients (except the noodles) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add the cooked noodles just before serving.

Enjoy this comforting and hearty Beef and Noodles recipe, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner any night of the week!