Old Fashioned Beef and Noodles Recipe | Easy Comfort Food

Ever wondered why some recipes last forever? The old fashioned beef and noodles recipe is a great example. It’s a classic comfort food that combines tender beef with hearty noodles in a rich broth.

This dish comes from the Midwest and is a favorite in many American homes. It’s easy to make and can feed a lot of people. You’ll need just a few ingredients and some time to make a dish that tastes like grandma’s.

This recipe makes 6 to 8 servings, great for family meals or parties. It takes about 5 hours and 25 minutes to cook, with 10 minutes of prep. Each serving has 749 calories, so everyone will be full.

Key Takeaways

• The recipe uses 2 pounds of beef chuck roast and 12 ounces of wide egg noodles
• Slow-cooking options include 2.5 hours on the stovetop or 4-5 hours in a Crock-Pot
• The dish can be customized with additional vegetables or herbs
• Leftovers can be stored for 3-4 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 6 months
• The recipe has a high rating of 4.91 out of 5 based on 21 votes

Introduction to Comfort Food Classics

Comfort food classics like grandma’s beef and noodles hold a special spot in our hearts. They bring warmth and nostalgia with every bite. The classic beef and egg noodles recipe shows how simple ingredients can make a magical meal.

This vintage beef noodle recipe has been loved for years, becoming a staple in many Midwestern homes. It’s often passed down through generations, with each family adding its own twist.

The dish’s charm comes from its simplicity and rich flavors. With just lean ground beef, egg noodles, and common pantry items, you can make a hearty meal that nourishes the soul.

This classic beef and egg noodles recipe is not just tasty but also healthy. Each serving has 30g of protein and important nutrients, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or a quick dinner option? This vintage beef noodle recipe is perfect. It’s affordable, kid-friendly, and brings the comfort of home-cooked meals.

The Nostalgic Appeal of Old Fashioned Beef and Noodles

Old fashioned beef and noodles are a big part of American food culture. This dish brings back memories of family meals and home cooking. It’s a comfort food that many people love.

A Taste of Grandma’s Kitchen

The smell of baked beef and homemade noodles reminds us of grandma’s kitchen. This dish is more than food; it’s a trip back to happy childhood times. A survey showed that chicken and homemade noodles are still favorites from childhood, proving the lasting love for these comfort foods.

Why This Dish Has Stood the Test of Time

This dish has lasted because it’s simple and versatile. While some 1950s dishes are no longer popular, beef noodle casserole is still a family favorite. It’s great for feeding a crowd and is easy to make, making it perfect for family dinners and potlucks.

The Perfect Meal for Cold Weather

When it gets cold, beef noodle bake is the perfect comfort food. It’s great for cold nights. The mix of tender beef and soft noodles in a rich broth is both filling and satisfying. This is why it’s been a family favorite for over 30 years.

Whether you’re making grandma’s recipe or adding your own twist, old fashioned beef and noodles still bring joy and comfort. Its lasting popularity shows how much people love simple, hearty meals made at home.

Essential Ingredients for Old Fashioned Beef and Noodles Recipe

Creating the perfect old fashioned beef and noodles recipe begins with choosing top-quality ingredients. The main ingredient is 3 pounds of beef top sirloin, cut into thin strips. This ensures the meat is tender and full of flavor, soaking up the rich broth.

For the broth, you’ll need 32 ounces of beef stock. This ingredient is key to your homemade beef noodle casserole. To boost the taste, add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce and a bit of garlic powder.

Wide egg noodles are a must for this dish. You can use 1 pound of them for that classic feel. Or, if you’re up for it, try making your own noodles with flour, eggs, and milk.

For added flavor, include 1 medium onion and 3 cloves of garlic. These will deepen the taste of your dish. Also, add 16 ounces of baby Bella mushrooms for a touch of earthiness.

• 3 pounds beef top sirloin
• 32 ounces beef broth
• 1 pound egg noodles
• 1 medium onion
• 3 cloves garlic
• 16 ounces baby Bella mushrooms

To thicken the sauce, use cornstarch and water. A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess to your homemade beef noodle casserole. With these ingredients, you’re set to make a satisfying meal for 8 people, with each serving around 564 calories.

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

Finding the perfect cut of beef is key for a delicious beef noodle bake. Chuck roast or top sirloin steak are great choices. They have fine marbling and a tender texture when slow-cooked.

Best Cuts for Slow Cooking

Chuck or rump roast is perfect for baked beef and homemade noodles. These cuts have the best flavor and become tender and easy to chew. Top sirloin, also known as the “weeknight steak,” is another good choice. It’s affordable and tastes great.

How to Select Quality Beef

Choose beef with a bright red color and visible marbling. This fat inside the meat makes it juicy and flavorful. Don’t pick pre-cut stew meat, as it can have different cuts that cook differently.

Preparing the Beef for Cooking

Cut the beef into 2-inch pieces. Season with salt and pepper, then coat with flour. This makes the beef taste better and feel softer in your beef noodle bake. Before slow cooking, sear the beef in a Dutch oven for the best flavor.

For a tasty baked beef and homemade noodles dish, focus on beef quality and slow cooking. With the right cut and slow cooking, you’ll make a comforting meal for 8 people in about 4 hours.

The Art of Making Homemade Egg Noodles

Making your own egg noodles adds a special touch to your classic beef and egg noodles. While store-bought noodles are fine, homemade noodles make your dish stand out. It’s easier than you think and tastes amazing.

To start, you need flour, eggs, salt, and water. Mix these to form a dough. Then, roll it out thinly and cut into strips. You now have fresh noodles for your casserole.

Homemade noodles add a richer flavor and a heartier texture. They soak up the beef broth perfectly, making each bite a delight. Use 1 pound of homemade noodles for the best flavor.

“Homemade egg noodles are the secret to taking your beef noodle casserole from good to great. The extra effort is worth it!”

If you’re short on time, store-bought noodles are still tasty. But for special occasions or to impress, homemade noodles are unbeatable. They make your classic beef and egg noodles recipe truly special.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making the perfect old fashioned beef and noodles is simple. You can use an Instant Pot, slow cooker, or stovetop. Let’s go through the steps together.

Browning the Beef

Begin by browning 1 pound of beef stew meat in a pan with olive oil. This step is key for rich flavors.

Creating the Flavorful Broth

Next, mix 22 ounces of cream of mushroom soup, 2 tablespoons of onion dip mix, and 1 cup of beef broth. Pour this over the browned beef for a tasty base.

Slow Cooking for Tenderness

Choose how to cook based on your time and tools:

• Instant Pot: Cook under high pressure for 15 minutes
• Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours
• Stovetop: Simmer for at least one hour

Adding and Cooking the Noodles

After the beef is tender, add 8 ounces of egg noodles. Cook until they’re al dente and soak up the broth.

This recipe makes a hearty meal with 568 calories per serving. It has 47g of protein and 50g of carbs. It’s a great comfort food dish for any event.

Slow Cooker vs. Stovetop: Which Method is Best?

When making a vintage beef noodle recipe, you have two main cooking methods: slow cooker and stovetop. Both can make a hearty beef noodle casserole. Each method has its own benefits.

The slow cooker is great for busy days. You can set it and forget it for 4 to 8 hours. This way, the flavors blend together perfectly. On high, the beef gets tender in about 4 hours.

Stovetop cooking lets you control the cooking process better. It takes 2.5 to 3 hours. You can adjust seasonings and consistency as you go. This method is perfect if you like being more involved in cooking.

If you’re short on time, an Instant Pot can cook the beef in about an hour. This modern way of making the vintage beef noodle recipe is great for quick meals.

The best method depends on your schedule and what you prefer. No matter which one you pick, you’ll get a delicious, comforting meal. It serves 8 people and can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Texture and Flavor

Mastering the old fashioned beef and noodles recipe takes focus. This comfort food dish can shine with a few simple tips. Let’s dive into some key ways to boost your dish.

Seasoning Secrets

Salt and pepper are key, but there’s more to add. A splash of Worcestershire sauce brings depth. It matches the beef’s flavor, making the dish more complex.

Adjusting Consistency

The right texture is key: not too dry, not too soupy. If it’s dry, add beef broth bit by bit. For a thicker version, simmer it longer to reduce the liquid.

Enhancing the Gravy

A rich gravy is vital for this dish. To thicken, mix in a cornstarch slurry. For extra richness, add sour cream just before serving.

This recipe makes 6-8 servings. Slow cooking, 7-8 hours on LOW or 4-5 hours on HIGH, makes the meat tender and gravy flavorful. With these tips, your dish will be a hit with your family.

Variations on the Classic Recipe

Love the classic beef noodle bake but want to mix it up? Try these tasty twists on the traditional recipe. Each variation adds a unique flavor while keeping the comfort food essence intact.

For a richer taste, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream during the last 15 minutes of cooking. This simple addition transforms your baked beef and homemade noodles into a creamy delight. Want more veggies? Toss in carrots, celery, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.

Pressed for time? Swap the chuck roast for ground beef. This cuts down cooking time significantly while still delivering a hearty meal. Spice lovers can experiment with rosemary or paprika for an extra kick.

Craving a casserole? Turn your beef noodle bake into an oven-baked dish. Layer the ingredients in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake until golden and bubbly.

These variations keep your beef noodle bake exciting and new. Experiment with different ingredients to find your family’s favorite twist on this classic comfort food.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Make your classic beef and egg noodles even better with these serving tips. This dish goes great with many sides and drinks, making it even tastier and more filling.

Complementary Side Dishes

Balance the rich taste of beef noodles with fresh sides. A crisp garden salad or steamed green veggies like broccoli or green beans are perfect. For those who love gravy, don’t forget the crusty bread.

Beverage Pairings

Find drinks that match the bold taste of your beef noodle dish. A full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot is a great choice. Beer lovers can try a dark lager or stout, which suits the dish’s hearty flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Put your beef noodle dish in deep, warm bowls to keep it hot. Add some fresh parsley or chives on top for color and freshness. For a cozy feel, serve it from a cast-iron skillet or Dutch oven at the table.

This classic beef and egg noodles recipe makes 6 servings, ideal for family meals or small parties. It’s packed with 572 kcal and 40g of protein per serving, making it a fulfilling meal for everyone.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Learning how to store and reheat your homemade beef noodle casserole lets you enjoy it for more days. After eating, put any leftovers in airtight containers. This way, your beef noodle casserole will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great choice. Take the beef and gravy apart from the noodles before freezing. This keeps the texture right. You can store your casserole for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge the night before you want to eat it again.

Reheating is easy. Warm it up on the stovetop, adding a bit of beef broth to make the sauce rich. Or, use the microwave if you’re in a hurry. Just stir it a few times to heat it evenly.

If you have leftover roast beef, turn it into a quick beef and noodles meal. Cut the meat into small pieces, simmer in beef broth, and thicken with cornstarch. Then, mix it with cooked egg noodles. This is like grandma’s chicken noodle soup, using leftovers wisely.

• Store in airtight containers
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days
• Freeze for up to 2 months
• Reheat gently, adding broth if needed
• Use leftover roast for quick meals

For the best taste, use fresh noodles. When reheating frozen leftovers, consider making new noodles to mix with your thawed beef and gravy. This ensures the perfect texture in every bite.

Health Benefits of Old Fashioned Beef and Noodles

Old fashioned beef and noodles is more than just comfort food. It’s a meal full of important nutrients. It combines protein, carbs, and veggies in one dish. Beef is a key source of nutrition.

Beef is high in protein, which is good for muscles and fixing them. It also has iron, which fights anemia. The broth in baked beef and noodles has collagen, which is good for your joints and bones. Herbs like thyme and rosemary have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Here’s what you get in each serving:

• Calories: 547
• Carbohydrates: 57g
• Protein: 26g
• Fat: 24g
• Iron: 3mg
• Potassium: 502mg

This dish isn’t low in calories, but it can fit into a balanced diet if eaten in moderation. To make it healthier, use lean beef, whole grain noodles, and add more veggies. Remember, controlling how much you eat is important to enjoy the benefits without eating too much.

Why This Old Fashioned Beef and Noodles Recipe is a Family Favorite

Grandma’s beef and noodles recipe has been loved for generations. It brings comfort and nostalgia to family dinners. It’s perfect for cold evenings and gatherings.

This dish is hearty and full of flavor. It has 1-1/2 pounds of prime stew meat, giving you 52g of protein per serving. The slow-cooking makes the beef tender and delicious.

What makes this recipe great is how versatile it is. You can use ground turkey, lean ground beef, or beef tips instead. The creamy mushroom soup and flour-thickened gravy add a luxurious touch.

“This old-fashioned beef and noodles recipe reminds me of Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house. It’s pure comfort in a bowl.”

This recipe is also practical. You can store it in the fridge for up to five days or freeze it for two months. It’s perfect for meal prepping. Plus, it has 761 calories and 68g of carbs per serving, making it a filling meal.

This recipe keeps families together, creating new memories and honoring traditions. Its simplicity, flavor, and ability to feed many make it a beloved family dish for years to come.

Conclusion

The old fashioned beef and noodles recipe is a classic comfort food. It combines tender beef with satisfying noodles, making a meal that warms the heart. This dish is loved across generations for its rich flavors and easy preparation.

This recipe is also good for you. Each serving has 626 calories, 63g of carbs, 46g of protein, and 20g of fat. It’s packed with minerals like potassium (1061mg) and iron (6mg). But, it does have a lot of sodium (2230mg), which you can adjust to fit your diet.

This recipe is very versatile. You can make it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. You can also customize it by choosing the beef cut and type of noodles. This makes it fun to make and enjoy with your family. It brings people together, offering a taste of nostalgia and the warmth of home-cooked meals.