There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Crockpot Beef and Noodles on a chilly evening. The slow-cooked, tender beef combined with hearty noodles creates a meal that's equal parts satisfying and delicious. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something low-effort yet high in flavor.
I first discovered this dish when looking for an easy meal that could practically cook itself while I managed a packed schedule. Over time, it's become a go-to recipe in my household, thanks to its simplicity and irresistible taste. Let me show you why this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.
Why You'll Love This Crockpot Beef and Noodles
Get ready to meet your new favorite comfort meal. This Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe brings so much to the table—literally and figuratively.
First and foremost, it's incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep work, this recipe lets your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. Perfect for those days when you don’t have time to fuss in the kitchen.
The flavors are deeply satisfying, thanks to the slow cooking process. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the noodles soak up all the savory goodness of the broth, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
This recipe is also wonderfully versatile. You can customize the seasonings, swap out ingredients to suit your preferences, or add vegetables for a complete one-pot meal. It's the kind of dish that fits seamlessly into your lifestyle.
Finally, it's a budget-friendly way to feed a crowd. Using affordable cuts of beef and pantry staples, you can create a hearty meal that stretches to feed the whole family.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this Crockpot Beef and Noodles lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient works together to create layers of flavor that will keep you coming back for seconds.
Beef chuck roast is the star of the show. This cut of meat is perfect for slow cooking, as it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful over time. If you can’t find chuck roast, brisket or stew meat are great alternatives.
Beef broth forms the base of the dish, infusing the beef and noodles with a rich, savory flavor. Opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
Onion and garlic add depth and aroma. These aromatics might seem basic, but they’re essential for building the dish’s hearty flavor profile.
Egg noodles are the perfect choice for this recipe. Their soft texture and ability to soak up the broth make them an ideal pairing for the slow-cooked beef.
A handful of seasonings like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves elevate the dish with subtle herbal notes. Don’t forget a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra umami boost.
You’ll also need a slow cooker, of course. A large one is ideal, especially if you’re cooking for a crowd or hoping for leftovers.
How To Make This Crockpot Beef and Noodles
Creating this comforting dish is as easy as setting it and forgetting it. Here’s how to make it step by step.
Start by prepping your beef. Trim off any excess fat from the chuck roast and season generously with salt, pepper, and any desired spices. Searing the beef in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker isn’t necessary, but it adds a deeper flavor if you have the time.
Place the beef in the slow cooker along with beef broth, diced onion, minced garlic, and your seasonings of choice. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and easily shreds.
Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded beef to the pot and give it a good stir to mix with the broth and aromatics.
Add the egg noodles to the slow cooker. Depending on the type of noodles, they may take 20-30 minutes to cook. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent sticking.
Check the seasoning before serving. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Options
Leftovers? You’re in luck—this dish reheats beautifully. Let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.
Refrigerate the leftovers for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to restore some moisture.
Freeze portions for up to 3 months if you’re planning ahead. Store in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
When reheating, use the stovetop over low heat or the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Variations and Substitutions
This Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe is highly adaptable, making it easy to tweak to your preferences.
For a veggie-packed version, add carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the beef. They’ll add natural sweetness and extra nutrients.
Swap out the egg noodles for rice, mashed potatoes, or even zoodles if you’re cutting carbs. Each option pairs wonderfully with the tender beef and savory broth.
Experiment with different seasonings. Paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning can bring a new twist to the flavor profile.
Short on time? Use pre-cooked shredded beef or rotisserie chicken instead of slow-cooked beef. You’ll have a similar texture with a fraction of the cooking time.
Feeling indulgent? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream just before serving for an ultra-rich, creamy finish.
No matter how you customize it, Crockpot Beef and Noodles is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So grab your slow cooker and get ready to create a dish that feels like a hug in every bite!
PrintCrockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe
Make this easy crockpot beef and noodles recipe for a comforting family meal. Tender beef, flavorful noodles, and a rich broth cooked to perfection in your slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 packet onion soup mix
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 12 oz egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add beef stew meat, onion soup mix, beef broth, and cream of mushroom soup into the crockpot. Stir well.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Add the egg noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, sear the beef before adding it to the crockpot.
- You can substitute egg noodles with any pasta of your choice.
- Add a splash of heavy cream for a creamier texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
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