If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting dish that comes together in a flash, this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It combines tender egg noodles with rich, savory ground beef simmered in a luscious gravy, creating that soul-satisfying flavor we all crave after a busy day. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—fresh ingredients, straightforward steps, and a finish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures in this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s building the savory base, adding aromatic warmth, or ensuring that silky gravy coats every noodle strand.
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles: Their tender yet slightly chewy texture is perfect for soaking up the beefy gravy.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides the hearty backbone and rich flavor without being too greasy.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the savory mix.
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Imparts a fragrant warmth that enhances the beef’s natural taste.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Brings a tangy, umami punch that elevates the overall profile.
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning: Subtle herb notes that tie all the ingredients together.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the gravy to a perfect consistency.
- 2 cups beef broth: Builds the rich gravy base, providing moisture and depth.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings that balance and highlight every flavor in the dish.
How to Make Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they’re just al dente. This ensures the noodles hold up wonderfully when tossed with the rich beef mixture. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside so they’re ready to combine later.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté Onions
While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef along with the chopped onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is nicely browned and the onions have softened. This step creates the flavorful foundation that makes this Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe shine. Drain any excess fat if needed, but leaving a bit can help enrich the gravy’s flavor.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Worcestershire Sauce, and Italian Seasoning
To the beef and onions, stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about a minute, letting those amazing aromas develop. This step layers in tanginess and herbaceous hints that bring excitement to every bite.
Step 4: Make the Gravy
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the beef mixture and stir well. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes while stirring constantly to eliminate any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring all the while to keep the sauce smooth and lump-free. Let the gravy simmer gently for 5 to 10 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency. If it gets too thick, add a bit more broth to loosen it up. This luscious sauce is what perfectly coats the noodles for that irresistible finish.
Step 5: Combine Noodles and Beef Mixture
Add the drained egg noodles directly into the skillet and give everything a good toss. Coat the noodles thoroughly with the savory gravy and beef mixture. Finish off with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preference. Serve this piping hot for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Serve Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a little grated Parmesan can add a lovely fresh contrast to the rich beef and noodles. You can also try a light dusting of cracked black pepper or even a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick. These small touches not only brighten the dish visually but also enhance the flavor harmony.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with crisp green vegetables such as steamed broccoli, green beans, or a simple side salad. The freshness and crunch balance the creamy texture and deep flavors of the beef and noodles. For a more indulgent meal, creamy mashed potatoes or buttery dinner rolls make fantastic accompaniments too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a sprinkle of cheese and broiled until golden and bubbly. Alternatively, layer it into a casserole dish topped with breadcrumbs and bake for a crowd-pleasing baked beef and noodle dish. Presentation can add another layer of enjoyment to this classic meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld nicely overnight, making for even better leftovers. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and freshness.
Freezing
This Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes meal planning on busy days a breeze!
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking or drying out. You can add a splash of beef broth or water to refresh the gravy. Microwaving works too—just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring between to ensure even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are classic for this recipe because of their texture, you can substitute with wide pasta ribbons, pappardelle, or even broader lasagna noodles broken into pieces. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep them tender but not mushy.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the gravy. Just remember to mix cornstarch with cold water before adding and simmer until thickened. Also, ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Adding mushrooms, peas, or diced carrots along with the onions can increase the nutritional value and add wonderful texture contrasts. Just sauté them with the onions until tender before adding the beef.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can substitute to bring a similar umami boost. Just adjust to taste since these alternatives may differ in saltiness and acidity.
How do I make the gravy richer?
For an extra rich gravy, you can add a tablespoon of butter or a splash of heavy cream once the gravy has thickened. This adds a silky finish and depth that’s utterly delicious with the beef and noodles.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe is the perfect blend of simple ingredients and heartwarming flavors that make any mealtime special. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering, it’s bound to become a beloved staple in your recipe box. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Easy Beef and Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic and comforting Easy Beef and Noodles recipe that combines tender egg noodles with savory ground beef cooked in a flavorful gravy. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty dish is perfect for a quick family dinner.
Ingredients
For the Noodles
- 2 cups uncooked egg noodles
For the Beef and Gravy
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Boil salted water and cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Brown Beef and Sauté Onions: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onions until the beef is browned and the onions are soft. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Cook together for about 1 minute to release the flavors.
- Make Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and cook for 1-2 minutes while stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually add the beef broth while stirring to ensure the mixture remains smooth. Let it simmer for 5-10 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. Add a splash more broth if the gravy is too thick.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked egg noodles into the skillet with the beef gravy mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce greasiness and excess fat.
- For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or cream to the gravy.
- Feel free to add vegetables like peas or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- To make gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
