Crockpot Beef and Noodles

Crockpot Beef and Noodles is the ultimate comfort food—tender, slow-cooked beef in a rich, savory broth served over egg noodles for a satisfying and hearty meal. This dish brings the warmth of home-cooked flavors with minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Using a slow cooker allows the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender while infusing the broth with deep, meaty flavors. The simplicity of this recipe, combined with its delicious outcome, makes it a staple in many households. Whether you’re looking for an easy family dinner, a meal-prep option, or a dish that can feed a crowd, Crockpot Beef and Noodles checks all the boxes.

This recipe uses simple ingredients like beef chuck roast, beef broth, seasonings, and egg noodles, yet the result is a dish bursting with rich, comforting flavors. It pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that can be stored and reheated for later. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort with this easy and flavorful Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does most of the work, making this a hands-off recipe perfect for busy schedules.
• Incredibly Tender Beef: The low and slow cooking method ensures the beef becomes fork-tender and packed with flavor.
• Rich and Savory Broth: A combination of beef broth, herbs, and seasonings creates a deep, comforting taste that coats the noodles beautifully.
• Crowd-Pleasing Meal: This dish is loved by kids and adults alike, making it a great choice for family dinners.
• Versatile: Serve it over mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal or add vegetables for a complete one-pot dinner.
• Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making the leftovers even more delicious the next day.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck roast (cut into large chunks)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 2 cups wide egg noodles
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons water (if using cornstarch)
• 1 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamy version)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by cutting the beef chuck roast into large chunks, removing any excess fat. This allows the meat to cook evenly and become more tender as it simmers. Season the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the Crockpot

Place the seasoned beef chunks into the crockpot. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and parsley. Pour the beef broth over the ingredients, ensuring the beef is fully submerged. This will create a rich, flavorful base for the dish.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef

Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The beef should be fork-tender and easy to shred by the end of the cooking time.

Step 4: Shred the Beef

Once the beef is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces directly in the crockpot. This helps it absorb more flavor from the broth.

Step 5: Cook the Noodles

About 20 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles to the crockpot. Stir well to ensure they are fully submerged in the broth. Let them cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry and stir it into the crockpot.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once the noodles are soft and the broth has thickened slightly, your Crockpot Beef and Noodles is ready to serve! If you want a creamier texture, stir in the heavy cream just before serving. Enjoy hot with your favorite side dishes.

Ingredient Background

• Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling and connective tissue, which break down over time, resulting in ultra-tender meat.
• Egg Noodles: These noodles soak up the rich broth beautifully and provide a soft, satisfying texture.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the savory depth of the dish while keeping the beef moist during cooking.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a hint of umami and a touch of tangy richness to the broth.
• Garlic & Onion: Essential aromatics that build layers of flavor in the slow cooker.

Technique Tips

• Searing the beef before adding it to the crockpot enhances its flavor.
• Adding the noodles in the last 20 minutes prevents them from overcooking and becoming mushy.
• For a thicker sauce, use cornstarch or allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Serve over mashed potatoes for an extra-hearty meal.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for a gourmet touch.
• Pair with roasted vegetables or crusty bread for a well-balanced meal.

Additional Tips for Success

• If using frozen beef, thaw it completely before slow cooking to ensure even cooking.
• Use low-sodium beef broth if you prefer to control the saltiness of the dish.
• For extra richness, a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream can be added at the end.

Recipe Variations

• Creamy Version: Stir in heavy cream or cream cheese for a luscious texture.
• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Vegetable-Loaded: Toss in mushrooms, peas, or carrots for added nutrition.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a bit of broth if needed.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Swap egg noodles for whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
• Use lean cuts of beef or turkey for a lighter version.
• Add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or bell peppers for a nutrient boost.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Serve in individual bowls for an elegant dinner party presentation.
• Make it part of a buffet with other comfort foods like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
• Pair with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Special Equipment

• Crockpot/Slow Cooker: Essential for achieving the perfect slow-cooked beef texture.
• Sharp Knife: For cutting the beef into manageable pieces.
• Mixing Spoon: To stir ingredients and evenly distribute flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Beef chuck roast is ideal, but brisket or stewing beef can work as well.

2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?

Yes! Simmer the ingredients in a large pot on low heat for about 3 hours.

3. Can I use frozen beef?

It’s best to thaw the beef first to ensure even cooking.

4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta or rice instead of egg noodles.

5. Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors develop even more when reheated the next day.

6. What side dishes pair well with this meal?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad are great choices.

7. How do I prevent the noodles from getting mushy?

Add them in the last 20 minutes of cooking and serve immediately.

8. Can I add mushrooms to this recipe?

Yes! Mushrooms add extra umami and blend well with the beefy flavors.

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef and Noodles is a simple yet satisfying dish that delivers incredible comfort with minimal effort. Whether you’re preparing it for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this slow-cooked meal will surely become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of rich, hearty goodness!

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