Beef and Noodles Recipe

Indulge in the ultimate Beef and Noodles Recipe—a creamy, cheesy, and hearty dish that combines tender ground beef, savory egg noodles, and a rich homemade sauce. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this family-friendly recipe is ready in under 45 minutes and uses simple ingredients like cheddar cheese, cream of mushroom soup, and flavorful seasonings. Learn tips, substitutions, and serving ideas to customize this comforting meal. Whether you’re craving easy comfort food or a satisfying pasta dish, this beef and noodles recipe is sure to please!

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 2 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce (or Worcestershire sauce)
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon EACH: garlic powder, mustard powder, dried thyme
• ½ cup heavy cream (can substitute half and half or milk)

For the Pasta:

• 1 lb. ground beef
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ lb. egg noodles, uncooked (see notes)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 (10.5 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup
• 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce:

1. Combine all sauce ingredients in a large measuring cup with a spout and set aside.
2. Measure out the remaining ingredients before starting to ensure smooth preparation.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

1. Lightly season the ground beef with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a deep 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef and diced onion.
3. Cook for 7-10 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until evenly browned and cooked through.
4. Drain the grease and transfer the beef to a plate.

3. Boil the Noodles:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil while preparing the sauce.

4. Make the Sauce:

1. In the same skillet used for the beef, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, until the raw flour smell dissipates and it begins to brown.
4. Gradually add the prepared sauce mixture in small splashes, stirring continuously to combine.
5. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
6. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and let the mixture simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.

5. Cook the Noodles:

1. Cook the egg noodles to al dente according to package instructions.
2. Drain the noodles once cooked.

6. Combine and Serve:

1. Reduce the sauce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
2. Add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet.
3. Stir in the cooked noodles, mixing everything together until coated in the creamy sauce.
4. Let the dish stand for a few minutes to thicken further, then serve warm.

---

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and hearty, this dish is the ultimate comfort meal.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes with simple, accessible ingredients.
• Family-Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Tips

• Noodles: Egg noodles work best, but any short pasta like rotini or penne can be used.
• Cheese: For a smoother sauce, shred your own cheddar cheese instead of using pre-shredded.
• Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed after combining the beef with the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even diced steak instead of ground beef.
• Vegetarian: Swap the beef for mushrooms or plant-based meat and use vegetable broth.
• Extra Veggies: Add peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrients.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this dish? It’s best to freeze the sauce and beef mixture without the noodles. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.

What if I don’t have cream of mushroom soup? You can substitute with cream of chicken soup or make a homemade version using flour, butter, and milk.

Serving and Suggestions

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic knots for a complete meal.
• Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Top with fresh parsley or additional shredded cheese for extra flavor.

Enjoy your hearty and comforting beef and noodles!