Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles: A Midwestern Classic Full of Comfort
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that practically cooks itself, look no further than Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles. This dish is a Midwestern staple — rich, hearty, and soul-soothing. Imagine tender chunks of beef slow-cooked to perfection in a savory broth, mixed with soft egg noodles that soak up all the flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers warmth in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 2.2 pounds (1 kg) chuck roast or stew meat, cut into cubes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for searing)
For the Broth:
- 4 cups beef broth (preferably low-sodium)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of onion soup (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
For the Noodles:
- 12–14 oz egg noodles (wide or medium)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- ½ cup heavy cream (for extra richness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
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Instructions
1. Sear the Beef (Optional but Recommended)
Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Sear the meat until browned on all sides — this adds incredible depth of flavor.
You can skip this step if you’re in a hurry, but it’s worth the extra 10 minutes!
2. Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Place the beef into the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup (if using), soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme. Stir gently to combine.
If you’re using mushrooms or onions, add them now.
3. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fall-apart tender and the flavors are rich and developed.
4. Add the Noodles
About 30–40 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles. If the mixture looks too thick, add an extra cup of broth or water to help the noodles cook properly.
Cover and continue cooking on HIGH until the noodles are tender.
5. Finishing Touches
Once the noodles are done, stir in the heavy cream if using, and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is satisfying on its own, but it pairs perfectly with:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls
- Steamed green beans or roasted carrots
- A fresh garden salad
- Mashed potatoes for extra comfort!
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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze without the noodles (they get mushy). Just freeze the beef mixture and cook fresh noodles when reheating.
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Why Everyone Loves This Recipe
- It’s budget-friendly and uses simple ingredients.
- It’s effortless — just throw it in the slow cooker and go.
- It’s family-approved and picky-eater safe.
- It’s perfect for cold weather, busy weekdays, or meal prep.