Craving a warm, hearty, and incredibly flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? Look no further than this crock pot beef and noodles recipe! This easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying dinner without the fuss. It’s a true testament to the power of slow cooking, delivering tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef in a rich, savory gravy. This homemade classic is sure to become a staple in your healthy meal rotation. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that’s both incredibly satisfying and easy on the cleanup!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups egg noodles
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
For a richer flavor, start by browning the beef cubes in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds depth to the final dish. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Set the browned beef aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Crock Pot Assembly
Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the browned beef, beef broth, water, cream of mushroom soup, thyme, rosemary, pepper, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
Step 4: Slow Cooking
Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes.
Step 5: Adding Noodles
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles. Allow them to cook in the flavorful broth until tender. If the liquid seems too thick, add a little more water or broth.
Step 6: Serving
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the delicious beef and noodles into bowls and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker gravy: Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Add vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, celery, and green beans are all great additions to this recipe. Add them along with the beef.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different noodles: Wide egg noodles are traditional, but you can also use other types of pasta, such as ditalini or rotini.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This crock pot beef and noodles recipe is a simple, delicious, and healthy meal that's perfect for any occasion. It's a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. Enjoy the incredible aroma and comforting taste of this homemade dish – a true celebration of delicious dishes and best recipes!