If you’re in search of the ultimate comfort food to cozy up your evenings, this Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Tender beef simmered slowly to perfection mingles effortlessly with rich, savory gravy, all generously poured over pillowy wide egg noodles that soak up every bit of flavor. It’s straightforward to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers hearty satisfaction that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe proves slow cooking can lead to fast favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun, especially when each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture in your Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe. From the tender beef to the savory gravy mixes and comforting egg noodles, every component is thoughtfully chosen for maximum taste and ease.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into cubes): Provides tender, juicy bites after slow cooking that melt in your mouth.
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) brown gravy mix: Delivers that deep, rich gravy flavor that coats the beef beautifully.
- 1 packet (1 oz) au jus mix: Adds an extra dimension of savory beefy goodness to enhance the sauce.
- 3 cups water: The cooking base that transforms dry mixes into a luscious gravy.
- 12 oz wide egg noodles: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful gravy and providing a satisfying, tender bite.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Mixture
Place your beef stew meat in a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle the brown gravy mix and au jus mix evenly over the meat, then pour in the water. Give everything a good stir to ensure the beef is thoroughly coated with those flavorful mixes. This step sets the stage for that rich, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Low and Slow
Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6 to 8 hours, or if you’re short on time, choose high for 4 to 5 hours. The slow cooking breaks down the beef fibers, making the meat incredibly tender and allowing all those savory flavors to fully develop. Resist the temptation to peek too often – patience guarantees perfection here.
Step 3: Prepare the Noodles
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to eat, cook the wide egg noodles according to package instructions until tender but still firm to the bite (al dente). Properly drained noodles are crucial so they don’t get mushy when combined with the slow-cooked beef and gravy.
Step 4: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If your gravy feels a little thin after cooking, don’t worry—there’s a simple fix. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker. Turn the heat to high for about 20 minutes to let the sauce thicken up nicely. This step takes your gravy from good to absolutely luscious.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Once everything is ready, serve the tender slow-cooked beef and rich gravy generously over the warm egg noodles. The noodles soak up the sauce beautifully, making each bite a perfect balance of savory meat and comforting carbs. Get ready to dig into a plate that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
While this dish stands wonderfully on its own, fresh garnishes can elevate it with bursts of color and subtle freshness. Try a sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives for a hint of green that brightens the plate and adds a gentle herbal note. For a little extra richness, a dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded cheddar cheese can be delightful.
Side Dishes
Complement the Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe with simple but vibrant sides. Steamed green beans or roasted carrots add a bit of crunch and sweetness that balances the hearty noodles. A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette can also bring a refreshing contrast, rounding out the meal without overwhelming the main star.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the beef and noodles in elegant ramekins or shallow bowls to highlight the rich gravy and tender beef pieces. You could also layer the beef over the noodles in a clear casserole dish and sprinkle with breadcrumbs and cheese, then broil for a golden, crispy top for a comforting baked twist. Presentation is about making the meal feel as special as the flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. Store the beef and gravy separately from the noodles if possible to prevent the noodles from becoming overly soft. Use airtight containers to maintain freshness and make reheating a breeze.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked beef and gravy to enjoy later. Allow the mixture to cool completely, then transfer it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Keep the noodles separate if you can, as freezing them might change their texture. Frozen portions will stay good for up to 3 months, perfect for preparing meals in advance.
Reheating
When it’s time to eat, thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight. Reheat the beef and gravy gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Warm the egg noodles separately in boiling water for just a minute if they’ve become a bit firm, then combine and serve for a meal that tastes freshly made all over again.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef for this Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe?
Absolutely! Chuck roast or beef brisket are excellent alternatives because they become tender when slow-cooked. Just ensure the meat is cut into bite-sized cubes for even cooking.
Do I have to use the gravy and au jus mix packets?
While the packets make the recipe incredibly easy and flavorful, you can substitute with homemade gravy and beef broth for a more personalized touch. Just make sure to adjust seasonings to taste.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Yes, adding root vegetables like carrots and potatoes can be delicious but add them about halfway through the cooking time to prevent overcooking. Keep in mind it may slightly change the cooking time and liquid amount.
Is it necessary to thicken the gravy?
Not always. The gravy mix usually thickens during cooking, but if you prefer a richer, thicker sauce, the cornstarch slurry is an easy way to achieve that perfect consistency.
What if I don’t have egg noodles on hand?
Feel free to swap wide egg noodles with any of your favorite pasta shapes, such as fettuccine, pappardelle, or even thick spaghetti. Just adjust cook times accordingly for your pasta choice.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about gathering around a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe after a busy day. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights yet satisfying and flavorful enough to impress your loved ones. Give this recipe a try—you just might find it becomes a proudly repeated classic in your kitchen!
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Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes to 8 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and hearty Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe featuring tender beef stew meat cooked low and slow with savory gravy and served over wide egg noodles. Perfect for an easy, flavorful weeknight dinner with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Beef and Gravy
- 2 lbs beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into cubes)
- 1 packet (0.87 oz) brown gravy mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) au jus mix
- 3 cups water
Noodles
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
Optional Thickening
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker Mixture: In a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker, combine beef stew meat, brown gravy mix, au jus mix, and water. Stir until the beef is well coated to evenly distribute the seasoning and flavor.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef becomes tender and flavorful.
- Prepare the Noodles: About 20 minutes before the beef is done, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles well to prevent sogginess.
- Thicken the Gravy (Optional): If the gravy is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, turn the heat to high, and cook for an additional 20 minutes until the gravy thickens to your preference.
- Combine & Serve: Serve the tender slow-cooked beef and rich gravy over the cooked egg noodles. Enjoy this warm and satisfying meal right away.
Notes
- You can use chuck roast instead of stew meat for a more economical option.
- Adjust gravy thickness by adding more or less cornstarch slurry as needed.
- For a lower sodium version, use reduced-sodium gravy and au jus mixes or homemade alternatives.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Adding vegetables like mushrooms or carrots at the start of cooking can enhance flavor and nutrition.
