Sarah Mitchell
There’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of a hearty, slow-cooked meal filling your home. This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender shredded beef and hearty egg noodles in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for busy weekdays or a lazy Sunday dinner, this one-pot meal will satisfy the whole family with minimal effort.
Ingredients
1. Chuck Roast (2-3 pounds)
The star of the dish! Chuck roast becomes fall-apart tender after hours in the slow cooker. Look for a well-marbled cut for extra flavor.
Prep Tip: Trim excess fat to keep the broth from becoming greasy.
2. Beef Broth (6 cups)
Provides the rich, savory base for the noodles and beef. Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
Prep Tip: Use homemade beef stock if you have it for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Egg Noodles (12 ounces)
Thick, hearty egg noodles are the perfect complement to the tender beef. They soak up all the delicious flavors.
Prep Tip: Add them at the end to avoid overcooking.
4. Onion (1 medium, diced)
Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
Prep Tip: Dice it finely so it melts into the dish during cooking.
5. Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
Enhances the savory profile with a hint of earthiness.
Prep Tip: Use a garlic press to speed up the prep.
6. Worcestershire Sauce (2 tablespoons)
A must-have for that bold, umami kick.
Prep Tip: Measure carefully—it’s potent!
7. Seasonings
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Simple but essential.
Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, herbaceous note.
Bay Leaves (2): Infuse the broth with subtle aromatic flavors.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Place the chuck roast in the bottom of your slow cooker. Season generously with salt, pepper, and dried thyme.
Step 2: Build the Base
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves around the roast. Pour in the beef broth until it fully covers the meat.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Beef
Set your slow cooker on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours. The roast should be fork-tender and easily shreddable when done.
Step 4: Shred the Beef
Remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Discard any excess fat. Return the shredded beef to the broth.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles directly to the slow cooker. Stir well and cook on high for 20-30 minutes until the noodles are tender.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaves, taste for seasoning, and adjust with salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Equipment Needed
- Slow Cooker
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
- Garlic Press (optional)
- Two Forks (for shredding)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! While chuck roast is ideal for its marbling, brisket or bottom round roast are great alternatives. Just make sure the cut is suitable for slow cooking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the slow cooker and add the noodles right before serving.
What if I don’t have egg noodles?
No problem! You can substitute with other pasta types, such as fettuccine or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Simply swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta and ensure your beef broth is labeled gluten-free.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this recipe freezes beautifully. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad are all fantastic accompaniments to this hearty meal.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?
Of course! Carrots, celery, or mushrooms would blend perfectly with the flavors. Add them at the beginning to ensure they cook through.
Conclusion
I hope you’re as excited to make this Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe as I was to share it with you! It’s a simple, hearty dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to share this recipe on Facebook using the buttons below or save it to Pinterest so you can make it again. Happy cooking!
