Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles

My family adores a hearty, comforting meal, and this Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is a new favorite. It’s incredibly simple to make, which is perfect for busy weeknights. The aroma that fills the house while it simmers is pure heaven, promising a warm and satisfying dinner.

Tender beef, perfectly cooked noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth—what’s not to love? This recipe is a classic for a reason, and my version adds a few simple touches to make it extra special. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful dish!

Why You’ll Love It

This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is a winner for so many reasons:

• Flavorful and comforting: The slow cooking process creates incredibly tender beef and a deeply flavorful broth. Every bite is pure comfort food goodness.
• Easy to make: This recipe is practically foolproof! With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dinner simmering away in your slow cooker.
• Perfect for busy weeknights: Simply toss the ingredients in your slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a warm, ready-to-eat meal.
• Budget-friendly: This recipe uses affordable ingredients, making it a great option for families on a budget.

What You’ll Need

Here’s the lineup of ingredients you’ll need to create this comforting Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Kinder’s Woodfire Blend seasoning
• 1/2 tsp seasoned meat tenderizer
• 1/2 yellow onion, minced
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 32 oz beef broth
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 12 oz egg noodles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season and Brown the Beef

In a large bowl, season the beef stew meat generously with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, Kinder’s Woodfire Blend, and seasoned meat tenderizer. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This step helps develop a rich, deep flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned beef (and any accumulated juices) to your slow cooker. Add the minced onion, minced garlic, and enough beef broth to cover the meat completely. I typically use about 30 ounces, leaving a bit of room in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in some additional Kinder’s Woodfire Blend, salt, and pepper to taste. Add a splash or two of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor. Give everything a good stir, then cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 4: Add the Noodles

About 30 minutes before serving, add the egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine and ensure the noodles are submerged in the broth. Continue cooking until the noodles are tender, about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and savor the comforting goodness.

Smart Tips & Tricks

• Sear the beef: Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds a depth of flavor you won’t want to miss.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: Add the noodles towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy. Start checking for doneness around 20 minutes. You can learn more in our handy guide to slow cooker recipes on our Dinner page.
• Adjust the broth: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of beef broth slightly. Alternatively, for a thinner broth, add a bit more.
• Make it ahead: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Switch-Ups & Swaps

• Mushrooms: Add a cup of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the beef for an earthy flavor boost.
• Vegetables: For extra heartiness, add chopped carrots, celery, or potatoes along with the beef. Be sure to adjust the amount of beef broth accordingly.
• Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves can elevate the flavor profile.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Creamy version: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese just before serving for a richer, creamier sauce. For some inspiration, check out our creamy soups on the Lunch recipes page.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic sides: This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.
• A touch of freshness: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice adds brightness.
• Family style: Serve this comforting dish family-style in a large bowl, encouraging everyone to help themselves.
• Make it a complete meal: For a full and satisfying dinner, pair with some steamed vegetables and roasted potatoes. Find some inspiration on our Desserts page for afters.

Final Thoughts

This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is a true comfort food classic, made easy and delicious. It’s a perfect weeknight meal for busy families and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Don’t forget to check out more family-friendly meals on the Breakfast page. Now, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a warm and satisfying dinner! Share your culinary creations with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest!