Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about coming home to the smell of Crockpot Beef and Noodles simmering away in your kitchen. Tender, slow-cooked beef combined with hearty egg noodles and a rich, savory broth creates the ultimate cozy meal.

I first discovered this recipe on a chilly evening when I needed something warm and satisfying after a long day. Since then, it’s become a staple in my home – the perfect mix of convenience and flavor. Let me show you how to make this delicious dish that’s sure to be a hit with your family!

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef and Noodles

Get ready to make your new go-to comfort meal. Crockpot Beef and Noodles is everything you love about homemade cooking, with none of the stress.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, your slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. Toss everything in, set it, and let the magic happen.

The flavors are unmatched. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender as it slowly cooks, while the broth absorbs all the rich, beefy goodness. Add the noodles at just the right time, and they soak up all those amazing flavors.

This recipe is also perfect for busy schedules. Whether you’re juggling work, school, or family life, it’s a lifesaver. Just a few minutes of prep in the morning, and dinner is ready by the evening – no last-minute scrambling.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The hearty, filling nature of this dish makes it ideal for feeding a family or serving at potlucks. Plus, it’s picky-eater approved – kids and adults alike will ask for seconds!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect flavor and texture. Here's what you’ll need:

• Beef Chuck Roast: This cut of beef is ideal for slow cooking. It becomes incredibly tender and shreds easily after hours in the Crockpot. You can also use stewing beef if you prefer pre-cut pieces.
• Beef Broth: The base of the broth should be rich and flavorful. For an extra depth of flavor, consider using low-sodium beef stock and adjusting the seasoning to taste.
• Egg Noodles: These wide, ribbon-like noodles are the perfect match for the rich, beefy broth. They cook up quickly and add the right amount of heartiness to the dish.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are key to building flavor in the broth. A finely diced onion and a couple of minced garlic cloves do the trick.
• Seasonings: A mix of salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf brings a subtle yet aromatic depth to the dish. You can also add a pinch of paprika for a hint of smokiness.
• Cornstarch (optional): If you prefer a thicker broth, a quick slurry of cornstarch and water can be stirred in before serving.

No special equipment is needed – just your trusty slow cooker and a large spoon for serving.

How to Make This Crockpot Beef and Noodles

Making this dish is as easy as it gets. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a flavorful, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

1. Prep the Ingredients: Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. If desired, sear the beef in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side for extra flavor.
2. Load the Crockpot: Place the roast in your slow cooker and add the beef broth, diced onion, minced garlic, and seasonings (thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper). Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
3. Shred the Beef: Once the beef is done, remove it from the Crockpot and shred it using two forks. Discard any excess fat. Return the shredded beef to the pot, stirring it back into the broth.
4. Add the Noodles: About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles directly into the Crockpot. Stir to ensure they’re submerged in the broth, then cover and let them cook until tender, about 20-30 minutes.
5. Thicken the Broth (Optional): If you like a thicker consistency, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water, then stir it into the broth during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the beef and noodles into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Storage Options

This dish is just as delicious the next day, making it great for leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

• Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The noodles will continue to absorb some of the broth, so add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
• Freeze: If you plan to freeze this dish, it’s best to do so before adding the noodles. The beef and broth freeze well in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat in a slow cooker, and add fresh noodles.
• Reheat: Warm leftovers on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization. Here are a few ideas to try:

• Swap the Protein: While beef is traditional, you can use chicken thighs or even pork shoulder for a different twist. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Vegetable Additions: Add carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the Crockpot for extra texture and flavor. These can be added at the start to cook alongside the beef.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to change up the flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free noodles or rice instead of egg noodles to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier dish, stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving.

Don’t be afraid to get creative – this recipe is incredibly forgiving and adapts well to different ingredients!

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