Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles is a delightful dish that brings back memories of cozy family dinners and hearty meals. This recipe captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food, perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. With tender beef, savory broth, and comforting egg noodles, it satisfies cravings and warms the soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Classic: This dish reminds you of Grandma’s kitchen, providing warmth and nostalgia with every bite.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of beef and rich broth creates a deeply satisfying flavor profile that will leave your taste buds happy.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe makes cooking enjoyable without a lot of fuss.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to potlucks, this dish can be easily scaled up or down.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and carbohydrates, Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles will keep you energized and satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To make Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother. Here are some essential kitchen tools you’ll need.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Ladle

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for braising the beef and creating a flavorful broth all in one pot.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient amounts for balanced flavors.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping vegetables like onions and garlic efficiently.

Ingredients

This Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles recipe is just like Grandma used to make – talk about comfort food at its best!

For the Beef Dish

• 2 Tbsp vegetable oil
• 3-4 pound beef chuck roast
• 2 tsp minced garlic
• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 Tbsp onion soup mix
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Noodles

• 16 oz. egg noodles
• fresh parsley (for garnishing)

For the Thickening Sauce

• 3 Tbsp corn starch
• 2 Tbsp water
• 4 Tbsp unsalted butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups reserved cooking liquid
• 2 Tbsp ketchup
• 1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

How to Make Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Start by heating vegetable oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
1. Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels.
2. Season it lightly with kosher salt and black pepper.
3. Sear the roast on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side).

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the beef is seared, remove it from the pot temporarily.
1. In the same pot, add diced onions and minced garlic.
2. Sauté until fragrant (about 2-3 minutes).

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the seared beef to the pot with onions and garlic.
1. Sprinkle onion soup mix over the beef.
2. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring gently.

Step 4: Cook the Beef

Cover the pot with a lid.
1. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low heat.
2. Simmer for about 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.

Step 5: Prepare Egg Noodles

During the last hour of cooking:
1. Bring another pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

After removing the tender beef from the pot:
1. Mix corn starch with water in a small bowl until smooth.
2. Stir this mixture into your reserved cooking liquid in the pot.
3. Cook on medium heat until thickened.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Slice or shred your cooked beef as desired.
1. Return it to the thickened sauce in your pot.
2. Serve over cooked egg noodles garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your homemade Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles!

How to Serve Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

Serving Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles is all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This classic dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Here are some suggestions for serving this hearty meal.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with parsley: Adding fresh parsley on top not only brightens the dish but also adds a touch of flavor.
• Chives or green onions: Chopped chives or green onions can provide a slight oniony kick that complements the beef well.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Garlic bread: This adds a deliciously aromatic element to your meal, enhancing the overall experience.

With Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli: This adds a pop of color and nutrients to your plate while balancing out the richness of the beef and noodles.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet, roasted carrots can bring a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of the dish.

How to Perfect Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

To ensure that your Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the right cut of beef: Opting for a chuck roast ensures tenderness and rich flavor after slow cooking.
• Sear before braising: Browning the beef before adding liquids enhances depth of flavor through caramelization.
• Let it simmer: Allowing the dish to simmer for several hours helps develop richer flavors as the ingredients meld together.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper levels according to your preference.
• Thicken wisely: Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce without affecting its flavor. Mix cornstarch with water before adding it to avoid clumps.
• Rest before serving: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to settle and improves texture.

Best Side Dishes for Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

Pairing side dishes with Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles can elevate your meal experience. Here are some wonderful options that complement this classic dish.

1. Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base and pair beautifully with rich beef gravy.
2. Green salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty noodles.
3. Corn on the cob: Sweet corn balances out savory flavors and adds a nice crunch when served fresh.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crispness and acidity, cutting through the richness of beef and noodles.
5. Baked beans: These add sweetness and protein, making them an excellent side for this filling main course.
6. Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their slight bitterness complements the savory elements of Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles, small errors can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the searing step: Searing the beef before cooking enhances flavor. Make sure to brown the meat well on all sides.
• Using low-quality broth: Good broth is key for rich flavor. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought beef broth.
• Not allowing enough cook time: Tender beef takes time to cook. Ensure you give it enough time in the pot to become tender and flavorful.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for a balanced flavor.
• Overcooking the noodles: Follow package instructions for cooking noodles separately. Overcooked noodles can become mushy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Bake until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish with a lid. Heat in intervals, stirring occasionally, until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles?

Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I make my beef more tender?

For tender beef, ensure you simmer it low and slow. This method breaks down tough fibers effectively.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Carrots, peas, or mushrooms would enhance both flavor and nutrition. Just add them during cooking.

How long does it take to prepare Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles?

The total time is around 325 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned Beef & Noodles is a heartwarming dish that brings nostalgia and comfort to any table. With its rich flavors and tender beef, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it your own!

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