Comfort Food Beef And Noodles

Name: Comfort Food Beef And Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces; 8 oz egg noodles; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Magic

I absolutely love making Comfort Food Beef and Noodles because it warms my heart and fills my home with fantastic aromas. The tender beef paired with perfectly cooked noodles creates a delightful harmony of flavors that evokes memories of family dinners. I enjoy using fresh vegetables, which add a pop of color and nutrition to the dish. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a hearty dish that everyone will enjoy.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:16:07.200Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could yield such bold flavors. The secret lies in letting the beef simmer long enough to absorb all the savory goodness from the broth and spices. I remember the first time I served it to friends; they couldn’t believe I made it at home!

Another tip I’ve found incredibly useful is to add a splash of soy sauce just before serving. It elevates the dish, bringing a deep umami flavor that balances out the richness of the beef. Each time I make this recipe, it feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Tender and juicy beef that melts in your mouth
Hearty noodles soaking up rich, savory broth
Comforting, home-cooked feel that reminds you of family gatherings

The Role of Beef in This Dish

Choosing the right cut of beef is crucial for this recipe. I recommend using beef chuck because it has a good balance of fat and meat, which becomes beautifully tender when simmered. The fat renders during cooking, enriching the broth and creating a velvety texture that clings to the noodles. If you can't find chuck, you could substitute with brisket or round, but be mindful that cooking times may vary.

To ensure your beef is thoroughly brown, make sure not to overcrowd the pot. If you add too much beef at once, it steams instead of browning, resulting in a less flavorful dish. Instead, brown the beef in batches if necessary, allowing each piece to develop a rich, golden crust which adds depth to the final flavors.

Perfectly Cooked Noodles

Cooking the egg noodles to the right texture is just as important as the beef. I like to boil them until they are al dente because they will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot broth. Aim for a bite that’s firm but not crunchy; typically, 6-8 minutes should do the trick. Be sure to drain them well, as any residual water can dilute the rich broth you’ve created.

If you want a gluten-free option, consider using rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Just be careful with the cooking time, as these alternatives may require different preparation. Always check the package recommendations and adjust your timing accordingly. Adding the noodles straight into the pot at the end ensures they absorb all the savory goodness.

Making the Dish Your Own

There’s plenty of room for creativity with this beef and noodles recipe. Feel free to experiment with vegetables; adding bell peppers or even peas can enhance the color and nutrition. You can include them during the simmering step for softer veggies or stir them in at the end for added crunch and freshness. This dish is versatile enough to adjust according to seasonal produce.

If you want to prep ahead of time, you can brown the beef and chop the vegetables the day before. Store them in the fridge separately, and on the cooking day, simply follow the recipe steps from the simmering stage. This can save you valuable time during busy weekdays!

Ingredients

Beef and Noodles Ingredients

1 lb beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 oz egg noodles
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Gather all the ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking process.

Directions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and season with salt and pepper. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.

Add Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and sliced carrots. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

Simmer

Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, garlic powder, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Cook Noodles

Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Combine

After the beef has simmered, add the cooked noodles to the pot. Stir gently to combine and let it heat through for about 2-3 minutes.

Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine during the simmering process. Additionally, using a variety of vegetables can enhance the nutritional value and add color to your dish.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheating is easy; just warm it in a pot over low heat until steaming, or for quicker reheating, use the microwave in short intervals. Be cautious not to overheat, as this can make the beef tough.

You can also freeze this dish for longer storage. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container, making sure to leave room for expansion. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stove slowly to retain the tenderness of the beef.

Serving Suggestions

This beef and noodles dish is a meal in itself, but serving it with a side of crusty bread can enhance the experience, allowing you to soak up the delicious broth. I often add a simple green salad on the side to lighten the meal and add a touch of freshness.

For an extra flavor kick, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also add a nice heat if you prefer a spicy twist. It’s all about personal preference, so feel free to make it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, chicken or pork can be substituted for beef, although cooking times may vary depending on the meat.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This dish freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Just store it in airtight containers.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or spiralized vegetables.

→ What side dishes go well with this meal?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables complement the dish nicely.