Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles

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Introduction

Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles is a cozy, homestyle dish that delivers tender shredded beef and perfectly cooked noodles in a rich, savory gravy. It’s the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with warmth and makes dinnertime feel comforting and effortless. With simple ingredients and hands-off cooking, this classic slow cooker favorite is perfect for busy days, cold weather, and family gatherings.

Ingredients & Quantities

For the Beef:

  • 2–2.5 lb (900 g–1.1 kg) beef chuck roast
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth

For the Noodles:

  • 12 oz (340 g) egg noodles (frozen or dry)
  • 1 cup additional broth or water (added later if needed)

Optional Enhancements:

  • ½ cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 bay leaf
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • ¼ cup heavy cream (for a creamier texture)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

  1. Add sliced onions and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
  2. Place the chuck roast on top.

2. Season and Cook

  1. Sprinkle salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder over the beef.
  2. Add Worcestershire sauce and pour in 4 cups of beef broth.
  3. Cover and cook on LOW for 8–9 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.

3. Shred the Beef

  1. Remove the beef and shred it using two forks.
  2. Return shredded beef to the slow cooker.

4. Add the Noodles

  1. Stir in egg noodles.
  2. Cover and cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes until the noodles are soft.
  3. Add extra broth or water if thicker than desired.

5. Final Touch

  • Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.

Origin & Cultural Significance

Beef & Noodles is a Midwestern comfort staple rooted in simple farmhouse cooking. With origins in rural kitchens, it was a practical way to stretch beef into a hearty, filling meal for large families. Slow cookers later made this traditional dish even more accessible, turning it into a beloved modern classic across American homes.

Description

This dish features tender, slow-cooked beef enveloped in a silky beef gravy, with noodles that soak up every drop of flavor. The texture is rich and comforting, delivering a warm, satisfying bite that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Optional Additions

  • Mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
  • A splash of soy sauce for depth
  • Fresh parsley for brightness
  • Cream of mushroom soup for a thicker, creamier sauce
  • Chili flakes for mild heat

Tips for Success

  • Chuck roast gives the most tender, flavorful results.
  • Don’t add noodles too early—they will overcook.
  • If the gravy is too thin, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water and stir it in.
  • If the beef seems tough, give it more time. It becomes tender only once the collagen breaks down.

Nutritional Information

 (Approx. per serving, 6 servings)

  • Calories: 420–480
  • Protein: 32–38 g
  • Carbs: 35–40 g
  • Fat: 15–20 g
  • Sodium: 700–900 mg
  • Fiber: 1–2 g

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles is a simple-to-make, deeply comforting dinner that feels nostalgic and satisfying. It turns inexpensive ingredients into a meal that tastes like it simmered on the stove all day.

Recommendation

Serve with mashed potatoes, buttered corn, green beans, or a crisp side salad to complete the plate.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter variation, use whole-wheat noodles, low-sodium broth, or leaner cuts like top round roast. Add vegetables for extra nutrition without losing the cozy, comforting flavor.

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