There’s just something about a warm bowl of beef and noodles stew that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening, isn’t there? I’ll never forget the times I’d come home from school, and the rich aroma of this hearty stew wafting through the house would instantly lift my spirits. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug, perfect for family gatherings or just a quiet night in. Trust me, once you take that first satisfying spoonful, you’ll feel all your worries melt away. The tender beef, the flavorful broth, and those comforting egg noodles come together to create a dish that’s not only filling but also oh-so-delicious. So, let’s dive into this beef and noodles stew recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home too!

Ingredients for Beef and Noodles Stew

2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into cubes
4 cups beef broth
1 cup egg noodles
2 carrots, sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 potatoes, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste

How to Prepare Beef and Noodles Stew

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making this delicious beef and noodles stew! I promise, it’s easier than it looks, and the end result is totally worth it. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready to enjoy in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot to get that beef browned perfectly.
Add in your 2 lbs of beef stew meat, cut into cubes, and let it sizzle. Brown the beef on all sides—this should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; it adds so much flavor!
Once the beef is beautifully browned, toss in 1 chopped onion and 3 minced cloves of garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Next, pour in 4 cups of beef broth, and throw in those lovely 2 sliced carrots and 2 diced potatoes. Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, salt to taste, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Bring this mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1 hour. This is where the magic happens—let those flavors meld together!
After an hour, it’s time to add the star of the show—1 cup of egg noodles. Stir them in and cook for an additional 10 minutes, until the noodles are tender and the stew is thick and comforting.
And voila! Serve your beef and noodles stew hot, and don’t forget to savor each spoonful. You’ve earned it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ultimate Comfort Food: This beef and noodles stew is like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights or when you just need a little pick-me-up.
Hearty & Filling: Packed with tender beef, veggies, and noodles, it’s a satisfying meal that sticks to your ribs and keeps you full for hours.
Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, even beginner cooks can whip this up without a hitch!
One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Less fuss means more time to enjoy your tasty creation.
Customizable: Feel free to throw in any veggies you have on hand or adjust the spices to suit your taste. It’s a dish that welcomes creativity!
Leftovers for Days: If you have any leftovers (which is rare!), they store well in the fridge and taste even better the next day.

Tips for Success

To really nail this beef and noodles stew, I’ve got a few handy tips that’ll elevate your dish to the next level! Trust me, these little tricks make a big difference.

Brown the Beef Well: Don’t skip on browning the beef! This step adds depth of flavor to your stew. Make sure to give each piece some space in the pot so they sear nicely.
Adjust Your Seasoning: Taste as you go! Feel free to add more herbs or spices based on your preference. If you like a bit more heat, throw in some red pepper flakes!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a world of difference in flavor. Try to use fresh garlic and herbs if you can; they really enhance the dish!
Let It Simmer: Be patient! The longer you let it simmer (up to 1.5 hours if you have time), the more the flavors will develop and meld together.
Thicken If Needed: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Be careful with the noodles; they can get mushy if cooked too long. Add them towards the end and keep an eye on them for that perfect al dente texture!

With these tips, your beef and noodles stew will be a hit every time. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Variations of Beef and Noodles Stew

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this beef and noodles stew! Here are some ideas to spark your creativity:

Vegetable Delight: Swap out the potatoes or carrots for other vegetables like peas, corn, or green beans. They’ll add a pop of color and extra nutrients to your stew!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Instead of thyme, try rosemary or oregano for a twist in flavor. Fresh herbs can really elevate the taste!
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. It will give your stew a delightful kick that’s sure to warm you up!
Asian Twist: For an exciting fusion, substitute the egg noodles with ramen noodles and add soy sauce or ginger for a delicious Asian flair.
Red Wine Addition: Pour in a splash of red wine along with the broth for a rich, deep flavor. Just remember to let it simmer a little longer to cook off the alcohol.
Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer a hands-off approach, throw all the ingredients into a slow cooker and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours on low. It’s a great way to prepare a meal while you’re busy with other things!

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect beef and noodles stew. After all, cooking is all about having fun and finding what works best for your taste buds!

Nutritional Information for Beef and Noodles Stew

This beef and noodles stew is not only delicious but also offers a satisfying nutritional profile that you can feel good about! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving, keeping in mind that these are estimates:

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 25g

With a hearty serving of protein and a good balance of carbs, this stew really hits the spot while keeping you nourished and satisfied. Enjoy every bite knowing it’s not just comforting, but also a wholesome choice!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After enjoying your delicious beef and noodles stew, you might be wondering how to store the leftovers to keep them just as tasty for later. Don’t worry, it’s super simple!

First, let your stew cool to room temperature—this helps prevent condensation in the storage container. Once cooled, transfer the stew to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you can keep track!

If you want to store it for even longer, you can freeze it! Portion the stew into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion. It’ll last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Now, for reheating, you have a couple of options. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop it in the microwave. Just reheat in short bursts, stirring in between, until it’s hot all the way through. If you prefer the stovetop, transfer it to a pot and heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You might need to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up since it can thicken in the fridge or freezer.

And there you have it! Enjoy your beef and noodles stew as a cozy meal any day of the week! It really does taste even better the next day, so dig in!

FAQ about Beef and Noodles Stew

Can I use other cuts of beef for this stew?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat works great, you can also use chuck roast or brisket. Just make sure to cut it into cubes for even cooking.

Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, making beef and noodles stew ahead of time is a fantastic idea! The flavors deepen and improve overnight. Just store it in the fridge, and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it.

What vegetables can I add?
You can get creative! Feel free to add peas, corn, or even bell peppers. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly for any veggies that cook faster.

Can I use frozen vegetables?
Of course! If you’re in a pinch, frozen vegetables work just fine. Just toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they don’t get mushy.

How do I thicken the stew if it’s too thin?
If you find your stew a bit too thin, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the stew during the last few minutes of cooking. This will help thicken it right up!

Is this stew suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This beef and noodles stew stores well, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Just portion it out into containers and store in the fridge or freezer for easy meals throughout the week.

What are some good side dishes to serve with this stew?
This stew is hearty enough on its own, but if you want a side, consider crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even some garlic bread to soak up that delicious broth!

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just add all your ingredients to the slow cooker and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours. It’s a great way to have a warm meal waiting for you when you get home!

Beef and Noodles Stew: 7 Reasons to Love this Comfort Food

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Total Time: 85 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty beef and noodles stew perfect for a comforting meal.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add beef and brown on all sides.
Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
Pour in beef broth and add carrots, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
Add egg noodles and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
You can use other vegetables like peas or corn.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: beef and noodles stew

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