This hearty dish combines tender beef and soft noodles in a rich sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting family meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: Chuck roast is great for this dish because it gets tender during cooking. If you prefer a leaner cut, you can use sirloin or flank steak. Just note those might not be as flavorful!
Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth if you’re watching your salt intake. Homemade broth adds the best flavor if you have it, but store-bought does the job well too.
Onion & Garlic: Yellow onions work best for their sweetness. You can substitute with shallots or even green onions if you don’t have them on hand. Garlic powder can replace minced garlic in a pinch!
Noodles: Wide egg noodles provide a comforting chew. If you want a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta, which will cook a bit differently so adjust cooking times!
How Do You Ensure the Beef is Tender and Flavorful?
The key to tender beef is cooking it slowly and allowing time for the flavors to develop. This means sealing the meat first to lock in those juices.
- Brown the beef on medium-high heat for a good crust, which adds depth to the final dish.
- Slowly simmer it on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. This low and slow cooking breaks down the tough fibers.
- Don’t rush this step! The longer you cook it, the more tender the beef will become.
After cooking, always check the seasoning. A dash more salt or pepper can elevate the dish to grandma’s level!
Easy Homemade Grandma’s Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef and Broth:
- 1 1/2 pounds beef chuck roast or stew meat, cut into chunks
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 2 teaspoons soy sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
For the Noodles and Thickening:
- 8 ounces wide egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cold water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting dish will take about 2 hours and 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend roughly 30 minutes for prep, including browning the beef and chopping vegetables. The simmering time is 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing the beef to tenderize. Finally, about 10 minutes will be needed for the noodles and assembly. It’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Beef:
Start by heating the vegetable oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chunks of beef generously with salt and pepper. When the oil is hot, add the beef in batches—don’t crowd the pot! Brown the pieces nicely on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
2. Cooking the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step really brings out their flavors!
3. Adding the Broth:
Return the browned beef to the pot with the onions and garlic. Then, pour in the beef broth and stir in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and dried thyme. Give everything a good stir to combine.
4. Simmering:
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
5. Preparing the Noodles:
After the beef is tender, remove it from the pot and set aside. If you like, you can strain the broth for a clearer soup—though it’s not necessary! Now, cook the wide egg noodles right in the remaining broth according to the package directions, usually for about 5-7 minutes.
6. Thickening the Broth:
While the noodles are cooking, shred or chop the cooked beef into bite-sized pieces. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and cold water until smooth to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the pot to thicken the broth slightly, letting it simmer for a minute.
7. Final Assembly:
Return the shredded beef to the pot with the noodles. Stir everything together and heat through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up the beef and noodles while they’re hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley for a splash of color and flavor!
Now enjoy your delicious bowl of homemade Grandma’s Beef and Noodles, a true comfort food treat!
FAQs for Easy Homemade Grandma’s Beef and Noodles
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes, you can! While beef chuck is ideal due to its tenderness when cooked, you can also use sirloin or flank steak. Just be aware that these cuts may cook faster, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.
What Can I Substitute for Egg Noodles?
If you need a substitute, try using gluten-free pasta or rice noodles. Just remember that cooking times may vary; check the package instructions for the best results!
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and broth a day in advance. Just cool and refrigerate them separately. When ready to serve, reheat the broth, cook the noodles, and combine everything!
