Comfort Food Beef And Noodles

Name: Comfort Food Beef And Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into cubes; 2 cups egg noodles; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Cravings

I’ve always believed in the power of comfort food, and this beef and noodles recipe is one of my absolute favorites. Each bowl serves as a warm hug on a cold day, combining tender beef, rich broth, and perfectly cooked noodles. It's a dish that takes me back to my childhood, evoking memories of family dinners and laughter around the table. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do!

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:37:14.947Z

When I first made this beef and noodles recipe, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. The secret lies in simmering the beef until it becomes fork-tender, which not only enhances the flavor but also makes the noodles soak up that delicious broth. I use a combination of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce to add depth to the dish, and I always make sure to sauté the onions and garlic before adding in the beef—this step truly elevates the overall taste!

One of my favorite parts about this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Whether it's peas, carrots, or bell peppers, adding these not only boosts the nutrition but also gives a pop of color to your bowl. I love serving this comforting meal on chilly evenings, as it brings warmth and satisfaction to everyone at the table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy night in
Tender beef cooked to perfection in a flavorful broth
Quick and easy preparation, great for busy weeknights

Understanding the Broth

The broth is the heart of this beef and noodles dish, which is why choosing the right beef broth is essential. A rich, homemade broth will elevate the flavor significantly, but if you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought variant can also do the trick. Look for broth labeled 'low sodium' to better control the saltiness as you season your dish during the cooking process.

When simmering the broth with the beef and other ingredients, allow it to cook until it reduces slightly and the flavors meld together beautifully. If you notice the broth getting too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of water or additional broth to loosen it up. You want a nice, savory liquid that coats the noodles and the beef evenly.

Perfecting the Noodles

Egg noodles are a fantastic choice for this recipe due to their chewy texture and ability to absorb the broth's flavor. To ensure they don’t become mushy, make sure to cook them just until al dente, following the package instructions closely. Remember, they will continue cooking when mixed with the hot broth, so aim for a firmer bite.

If you want to switch things up, you can easily substitute the egg noodles with other shapes like fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as these options may differ. Once cooked, it’s essential to drain them well to prevent excess water from diluting your flavorful broth.

Ingredients

Beef and Noodles Ingredients

1 lb beef stew meat, cut into cubes
2 cups egg noodles
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the cubed beef and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 30 minutes.

Cook the Noodles

In a separate pot, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Combine and Serve

Once the beef is tender, add the cooked noodles to the pot. Mix everything together, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider garnishing with fresh parsley or green onions. You can also add a splash of hot sauce for some heat.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This beef and noodles recipe is a great candidate for meal prep. You can cook the beef and make the broth in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen overnight in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to serve, adding fresh noodles just before enjoying to maintain their texture.

If you find yourself with leftovers, store the dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth to keep it moist. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Be sure to freeze the noodles separately to ensure they don’t become mushy when defrosted.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your beef and noodles, try garnishing each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

For a complete meal, consider serving this dish with a side salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. If you want to add more vegetables, feel free to toss in some frozen peas or sliced carrots during the last few minutes of simmering, which adds both nutrition and color.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of meat?

Yes, chicken or pork can be used as alternatives, though cooking times may vary.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free noodles and check the soy sauce label for a gluten-free version.

→ Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, browning the beef first and then cooking everything in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours works wonderfully.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.