Comfort Food Beef And Noodles

Name: Comfort Food Beef And Noodles
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 cups egg noodles; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics

I absolutely love whipping up this Comfort Food Beef and Noodles dish on chilly nights. The warm, hearty flavors instantly take me back to my childhood. With tender beef simmered in a rich gravy and served over egg noodles, it’s the ultimate cozy meal. The best part is how easy it is to make; it comes together in about an hour, which means I can enjoy this favorite without spending all day in the kitchen. I can't wait for you to try it!

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:58:14.281Z

When I first tried making beef and noodles, I was looking for a recipe that was both comforting and satisfying. After several attempts, I finally perfected this dish, entailing slow-cooked beef that becomes incredibly tender while soaking up all those wonderful flavors of garlic, onion, and beef broth. It's a game changer!

To elevate the dish, I recommend adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs—this little tip truly enhances the comfort vibe. Plus, using egg noodles instead of any other pasta makes all the difference, as they hold the sauce beautifully!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a family dinner
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables
Rich flavor from slow-cooked beef and gravy

Choosing the Right Beef

For this Comfort Food Beef and Noodles recipe, using beef chuck roast is crucial. The cut comes from the shoulder, which is well-marbled and rich in collagen. When slow-cooked, this collagen breaks down, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Look for a roast with a good amount of fat and marbling, which will enhance the taste and texture of your dish. Avoid lean cuts, as they may dry out and lack the rich flavor you want.

If you're looking for a quicker cooking method, consider using beef stew meat, which is often pre-cut and can save you time. However, the flavor might not compare to a well-seared chuck roast. If you opt for a different cut, keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so adjust according to the tenderness of the meat and ensure it's adequately seasoned.

Perfectly Cooked Noodles

Cooking the egg noodles properly is vital for a satisfying textural contrast. Start boiling water in a large pot and add a generous amount of salt; this will ensure your noodles are flavorful. Cook them until they are al dente, usually 2 minutes less than the package instructions, since they will continue to cook when combined with the simmering beef. If you overcook them, you'll end up with mushy noodles that won't hold up in the dish.

After draining the noodles, consider tossing them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, especially if you're not combining them with the beef immediately. This small step not only keeps the noodles from clumping but also adds a touch of richness to the final dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This beef and noodles dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. To store, let the mixture cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider cooking the noodles separately and storing them in a different container. This will help prevent them from soaking up too much gravy and becoming overly soft when reheated.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the mixture appears too thick. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and check that the beef is warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat, as this can lead to a dry texture.

Ingredients

For the Beef and Noodles

2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 cups egg noodles
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Sear the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef chunks with salt and pepper, then sear them in the pot until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

Add Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are translucent and fragrant.

Simmer

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the beef is tender.

Cook Noodles

While the beef is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Combine and Serve

Once the beef is tender, mix in the cooked noodles. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, add mixed vegetables such as carrots or peas to the pot during the last 10 minutes of simmering.

Enhancing Flavor Profiles

To elevate the flavor of your Comfort Food Beef and Noodles, consider adding a splash of red wine to the pot after browning the beef. This will deglaze the pot, incorporating any flavorful bits that might have stuck to the bottom, enhancing the gravy's depth. Allow the wine to cook down for a few minutes before adding the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.

You can also try experimenting with herbs. Adding a bay leaf or a few sprigs of fresh thyme while the beef simmers will infuse the dish with extra aroma and flavor. Just remember to remove the herbs before serving!

Dietary Variations

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions specific to the gluten-free variety you choose, as cooking times may differ. The overall flavor and comforting nature of the dish remain while accommodating dietary needs.

For a lighter version, you can swap out half the noodles for vegetables. Carrots, zucchini, or even mushrooms can add both nutrition and a lovely texture. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the pot when you add the onions. This not only bulks up the dish but also adds color and flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use brisket or round roast, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! It reheats well in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of beef broth to loosen it up.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, you can use gluten-free noodles and ensure the beef broth is certified gluten-free.

→ What can I serve with beef and noodles?

It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.