Beef and Noodles – Easy Recipe in 30 Minutes

When it comes to weeknight dinners that are quick, delicious, and satisfying, beef and noodles is a standout choice. This dish combines lean ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a savory gravy that’s full of flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that can feed the whole family, making it perfect for busy nights.

Why This Beef and Noodles Recipe Works

This beef and noodles recipe is an absolute winner for several reasons. First, it’s quick and easy, taking just about 30 minutes to prepare. Second, it’s a one-pan dish, which makes cleanup a breeze. Third, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to add extra veggies or seasonings to suit your preferences. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or meal prepping for the week, this dish is bound to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for this comforting beef and noodles recipe:

• Egg Noodles: These soft, chewy noodles are the perfect base for the rich gravy and beef, absorbing all the flavors while maintaining a pleasant texture.
• Lean Ground Beef: Provides the hearty protein for the dish, offering a great balance of flavor without excess fat.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor, complementing the beef and broth.
• Garlic: Brings in a savory, aromatic element that enhances the overall taste.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A tangy addition that elevates the savory flavors of the beef and creates a richer gravy.
• Italian Seasoning: This herb blend adds complexity to the flavor profile without overpowering the dish.
• Flour: Used to thicken the gravy and give it a smooth texture.
• Beef Broth: Forms the foundation of the gravy, providing moisture and depth to the dish.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings to taste, ensuring the dish is well-seasoned.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to customize the beef and noodles recipe, here are some great alternatives:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, swap out the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This will still give you a savory base without the higher fat content.
• Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground beef or lentils for a vegetarian version. These swaps will give you the same hearty texture with a plant-based twist.
• Beef Stock: For a deeper, more robust flavor, try using beef stock instead of beef broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Egg Noodles: Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until they are al dente. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside.
2. Brown the Beef and Onions: In a large skillet, heat the ground beef and chopped onions over medium-high heat. Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spoon, until it is browned and cooked through. This should take about 10 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it, leaving just a couple of tablespoons for flavor.
3. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Allow it to cook for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
4. Create the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to remove any raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to dissolve the flour and lift any browned bits from the pan.
5. Thicken the Gravy: Continue to cook the mixture for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. If the gravy becomes too thick, add more beef broth to loosen it up.
6. Combine with Noodles: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the beef and gravy. Toss everything together until the noodles are well-coated in the gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Tips & Tricks

To make your beef and noodles even better, here are some expert tips:

• Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, you can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. These vegetables complement the beef and add a healthy twist to the dish.
• Boost the Flavor: You can enhance the gravy by adding extra herbs or spices. A splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar can also add depth.
• Creamy Variation: For a richer sauce, consider stirring in some sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking. This will create a creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the beef and noodles.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

While beef and noodles is delicious on its own, it can also be paired with several sides to complete the meal:

• Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a great contrast to the rich, savory beef and noodles.
• Garlic Bread: This classic side complements the dish, perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy.
• Vegetable Sauté: Try sautéing some seasonal vegetables like zucchini or green beans for a light and nutritious side.

If you’re looking to make this dish ahead of time, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.

Seasonal and Health Benefits

This beef and noodles recipe is ideal for the colder months, offering warmth and comfort. It’s also quite adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary preferences. For those on a gluten-free diet, simply swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free noodles. You can also make it a lower-fat meal by using leaner ground beef or ground turkey.

The combination of lean protein, carbohydrates, and savory seasonings makes this a balanced meal. With optional vegetables, you can even boost the fiber content, making it a well-rounded dish for your family.

This beef and noodles recipe is sure to become a family favorite, providing a quick, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to customize for any occasion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this beef and noodles recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s both comforting and quick. With its rich gravy, hearty beef, and tender egg noodles, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Not only is it incredibly simple to make, but it’s also versatile enough to adjust with different ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Whether you keep it classic or add a twist with veggies or creamy variations, this dish will quickly become a staple in your dinner rotation.

So, next time you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, look no further than this easy beef and noodles recipe!

FAQ

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