This Easy Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is all about comfort! Tender beef and chewy noodles soak up a yummy sauce while cooking low and slow. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner!
I love how simple this meal is – just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic! It’s like having a warm hug on a plate, and the smells are amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is ideal for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful. If you can’t find chuck roast, you could use brisket or round roast for a similar result.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish. If you prefer, shallots or even leeks could be good alternatives.
Egg Noodles: They cook quickly and soak up the sauce beautifully. If you have a gluten-free diet, substitute with gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles for a lighter option.
Beef Broth: Using beef broth adds richness. If you want a lighter flavor, chicken broth or vegetable broth can work as suitable substitutes.
Worcestershire Sauce: This adds umami flavor. If you’re avoiding it, soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free) can mimic that depth quite well.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Shredded Beef?
Getting that melt-in-your-mouth beef is all about cooking it long enough. Make sure not to rush this recipe! Here’s how to ensure perfect shredding:
- Cut the beef into large chunks for even cooking.
- Cook it on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Check if it’s fork-tender before removing it.
- Use two forks to shred the beef. It should easily pull apart.
Letting it soak back in the sauce after shredding allows the beef to absorb even more flavor!
Easy Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into large chunks
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces egg noodles
Optional Thickening:
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and then needs to cook for 7-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. Just a little waiting, and then you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Ingredients:
Start by placing the beef chunks right into your slow cooker. It’s the star of the dish! Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the beef. These will bring great flavor to the meat during cooking.
2. Add the Liquid and Seasonings:
Next, pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary, and season everything with salt and pepper. Give it a little stir to combine all the ingredients nicely.
3. Slow Cook the Beef:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 7-8 hours or on high for around 4-5 hours. The beef should become super tender – check it near the end to see if it shreds easily with a fork!
4. Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is ready, carefully remove it from the slow cooker and set it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This part is satisfying! After shredding, return the beef back into the slow cooker. Don’t forget to mix it with the remaining sauce!
5. Cook the Noodles:
About 20-30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, add the egg noodles directly into the slow cooker. Stir well to ensure they get coated with the tasty sauce. Cover and allow it to cook until the noodles are tender, which will take about 20-30 minutes.
6. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you’d like a thicker sauce, mix the cornstarch and cold water together in a small bowl to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and let it cook for another 10 minutes to thicken up the sauce.
7. Serve It Up:
Taste the beef and noodles and adjust any seasonings if necessary. Ladle the hearty beef and noodles into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if you like. Dig in and enjoy this comforting meal!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just ensure the cut has some marbling for tenderness.
What If I Don’t Have Egg Noodles?
No problem! You can substitute with any pasta you have on hand, such as wide noodles or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare everything the night before, refrigerate it overnight, and then cook it the next day. Just remember to add the noodles about 30 minutes before serving after cooking the beef.
