Crockpot Beef And Noodles Recipe

There's nothing like coming home to the rich aroma of Crockpot Beef and Noodles filling your kitchen. Tender, slow-cooked beef melts in your mouth, paired with hearty egg noodles that soak up the savory broth. It's a recipe that combines rustic comfort with the convenience of hands-off cooking, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

I first discovered this recipe on a cold winter day when I wanted a meal that felt like a warm hug. Little did I know it would become a family favorite, requested time and time again. Let me show you why this dish deserves a spot in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Beef and Noodles

Get ready to fall in love with this Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe, a dish that's as satisfying as it is easy to make.

First, it's a true set-it-and-forget-it meal. With just 10 minutes of prep, the slow cooker does all the work, leaving you free to tackle your day.

Second, the flavors are incredible. The beef becomes unbelievably tender, simmering in a broth infused with herbs and spices. The noodles absorb all that savory goodness, making each bite a flavor-packed delight.

Not to mention, it's a budget-friendly option. Using a cut like chuck roast or stew meat keeps costs low while delivering maximum flavor.

Lastly, it's a versatile recipe. Whether you want to add vegetables, switch up the seasonings, or make it a freezer-friendly meal, there are endless ways to customize this dish to your liking.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple ingredients, which come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one matters:

• Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking. It breaks down beautifully over time, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.
• Beef Broth: The backbone of the dish, beef broth provides the base for the rich, savory flavor. Use low-sodium broth if you want more control over seasoning.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic staples add depth to the broth, enhancing the overall flavor.
• Egg Noodles: Wide egg noodles are the traditional choice. They hold up well in the broth and provide a hearty texture.
• Seasonings: A combination of thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and black pepper creates a well-rounded, herbaceous flavor profile.
• Cornstarch Slurry: This optional ingredient thickens the broth into a more luxurious sauce if desired.

Special Equipment: A 6-quart slow cooker is perfect for this recipe. If you have a larger model, it’ll work too, but adjust quantities if doubling the recipe.

How To Make This Crockpot Beef and Noodles

Creating this hearty dish is as simple as it gets. Follow these steps, and you’ll have dinner ready without breaking a sweat:

1. Prep the Beef and Aromatics: Start by trimming any excess fat from your beef chuck roast and cutting it into large chunks. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Place the beef in the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with the onion, garlic, and seasonings (thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and black pepper). Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the meat is fully submerged.
3. Set It and Forget It: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
4. Shred the Beef: Remove the beef from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker.
5. Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles directly to the slow cooker. Stir, cover, and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender.
6. Thicken the Broth (Optional): For a thicker sauce, mix a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water) and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Total Time: Prep time is just 10 minutes, with the slow cooker handling the rest. Dinner will be ready to enjoy after 8-9 hours of effortless cooking!

Storage Options

This recipe is perfect for meal prep or leftovers, storing beautifully in the fridge or freezer.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. It keeps well for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. For individual portions, the microwave works well too.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of this recipe means you can make it your own with a few simple tweaks:

• Add Vegetables: Toss in carrots, celery, or peas for added nutrition and texture. Add them in the last 1-2 hours of cooking so they don't overcook.
• Use a Different Protein: If you’re not a fan of beef, try boneless, skinless chicken thighs or pork shoulder. Both work wonderfully in this recipe.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the egg noodles with your favorite gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or parsley for a fresh twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a bit of heat.

Remember, the best recipes are the ones you adapt to suit your tastes. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Final Thoughts

This Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe is everything you want in a comfort food: simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or indulging in a cozy meal for one, this dish delivers on all fronts.

So grab your slow cooker, a good book, and let this recipe work its magic. By the time you sit down to eat, you’ll be reminded of just how wonderful a home-cooked meal can be. Enjoy!

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