Easy Beef and Noodles

This easy beef and noodles recipe is a throwback to cozy weeknights at my grandmother’s kitchen table. It brings together simple ingredients for maximum comfort and satisfaction in only thirty minutes flat which is perfect for busy nights or when you just want a hug in a bowl.

I remember making this on chilly evenings after work and watching everyone go back for seconds – it is pure kitchen magic

Ingredients

• Egg noodles: bring a tender heartiness and soak up the sauce beautifully look for wide or homestyle noodles for best results
• Lean ground beef: delivers flavor without weighing things down choose fresh beef that is bright red for best quality
• Onion: sweet and aromatic a classic flavor builder pick firm onions with papery skin
• Garlic: heightens the dish with warmth use fresh cloves for the boldest punch
• Worcestershire sauce: adds depth and a touch of tang check for a well-sealed bottle to keep flavors strong
• Italian seasoning: brings a subtle herby edge you can use dried or mix your own from basil oregano and thyme
• Flour: helps the gravy reach that perfect thickness sift if lumpy
• Beef broth: creates the rich savory sauce use low sodium for control over saltiness
• Salt and pepper: pulls everything together season to taste with freshly cracked black pepper for lift

Step-by-Step Instructions

Boil the Noodles:

Fill a large pot with water and salt it generously then bring to a boil Cook the egg noodles until just tender according to the package timing Drain as soon as they are ready and set aside

Brown the Beef and Onions:

Set a large skillet over medium high heat and add the ground beef and chopped onion Break the meat up with a spoon as it cooks Stir often until the beef is well browned and the onion is soft this should take about ten minutes If the beef is fatty spoon off excess but keep a few spoonfuls for richness

Add Flavor:

Lower the heat to medium Add the minced garlic Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning Stir constantly for about one minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned

Build the Gravy:

Sprinkle flour evenly over everything and stir well to coat Cook this mixture for one to two minutes stirring so it does not burn This step cooks out the raw flour taste

Add Broth and Simmer:

Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan to release any tasty bits Keep stirring until the flour fully dissolves Let this simmer for five to ten minutes stirring occasionally until you have a rich thick sauce If it becomes too thick add a splash more broth

Combine and Serve:

Add the drained egg noodles right to the skillet Toss everything together so the noodles drink up the gravy Taste and finish with salt and pepper Serve immediately while piping hot

Pin

My favorite part about this recipe is swirling the noodles through the glossy beef gravy and remembering how my uncle always asked for extra gravy Whenever beef and noodles hit the table laughter was never far behind

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep nicely in the refrigerator for up to three days Make sure to let the dish cool completely before storing in an airtight container Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to loosen the sauce Noodles will soak up liquid overnight but extra sauce brings them back to life

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter meal Any type of short pasta works in a pinch though egg noodles offer the best texture Fresh herbs elevate the flavors but dried seasonings still deliver If you are out of Worcestershire try a few drops of soy sauce for a similar savory kick

Serving Suggestions

A side of buttery green beans or peas adds color and freshness If you want to stretch the meal feel free to toss in sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers at the start I often serve this with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a full and balanced dinner

Cultural Context

Beef and noodles is classic American comfort food with roots in farmhouse and community potluck cooking Egg noodles brought over by European immigrants became a staple in rural home kitchens Pairing beef and noodles in a creamy gravy shows how resourceful cooks made every ingredient count

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef. Adjust seasonings to taste for best results.

→ What noodles work best for this dish?

Wide egg noodles are traditional, but other short-cut pastas such as rotini or bowties can also be used.

→ How can I make the gravy thicker?

If a thicker gravy is desired, let it simmer a bit longer or add an extra tablespoon of flour before the broth.

→ Which vegetables pair well with beef and noodles?

Mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or peas are great additions. Simply sauté with the onions and beef before adding liquid.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Store in an airtight container, then reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth.

→ How can I add more flavor?

Try incorporating fresh herbs, a dash of hot sauce, or stirring in a spoonful of sour cream before serving.