Comfort Food Beef And Noodles

Name: Comfort Food Beef And Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound of beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 cups of beef broth; 8 ounces of wide egg noodles; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil; 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots mix

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love making Comfort Food Beef and Noodles, especially when the weather turns cold. The rich, savory flavors of the beef combined with tender noodles create a warm embrace on chilly nights. This dish is a perfect way to bring the family together around the table, as everyone enjoys digging into a hearty bowl. With just a few simple ingredients and techniques, I can whip up a comforting meal that warms both the body and soul. Trust me, once you try it, you'll be adding it to your regular rotation.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:43:21.780Z

When I first made this Comfort Food Beef and Noodles, I was surprised by how much flavor could come from such simple ingredients. The key to making it truly special is browning the beef thoroughly before adding the broth. This not only enhances the flavor but also creates a rich base for the sauce. I usually let it simmer longer than the recipe suggests for an even deeper flavor.

Another tip that worked wonders for me is using wide egg noodles rather than regular pasta. They hold the beef and sauce perfectly, ensuring each bite is filled with deliciousness. My family always raves about how hearty and satisfying this dish is, making it an instant favorite!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling comfort food for any occasion
Savory flavors that meld beautifully during cooking
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

Mastering the Art of Browning

Browning the beef is a crucial step that lays the foundation for rich, savory flavors in your Comfort Food Beef and Noodles. It's best to work in batches if your pot isn't large enough; overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming instead of browning. Aim for a nice, deep brown crust on the beef cubes, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat. This caramelization adds complexity to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

When you season the beef with salt and pepper before browning, it helps to amplify the flavors. Use a high-smoke point oil, like vegetable or canola oil, to ensure you get that beautiful golden color without burning the oil. Once browned, don’t rush; let the beef sit undisturbed for those first few minutes to avoid steaming it, leading to moisture loss.

Choosing the Right Noodles

The choice of noodles is integral to the dish's texture. Wide egg noodles are traditional because they hold onto the rich broth and provide a comforting chewiness. If you want to switch things up, try using fresh egg noodles or even whole wheat options for a healthier twist. Just bear in mind that cook times may vary, so keep an eye on your noodles to avoid mushiness during boiling.

Another tip: to ensure your egg noodles don't become clumpy after cooking, toss them with a bit of olive oil or butter after draining. This simple step keeps them separate and allows them to blend beautifully with the beef mixture when combined, creating that satisfying bowl of comfort food everyone loves.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the great things about Comfort Food Beef and Noodles is that it lends itself well to make-ahead preparation. You can prepare the beef and vegetable mixture up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it on the stove, adding a little more broth if needed, and then cook your fresh noodles right before serving to keep that delightful texture.

If you're considering freezing, let the beef and vegetable mixture cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat to avoid overcooking the beef. Adding freshly cooked noodles at the end ensures that they remain perfectly al dente, making this dish a cozy go-to for busy nights.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound of beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups of beef broth
8 ounces of wide egg noodles
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 cup of frozen peas and carrots mix

Instructions

Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in Worcestershire sauce.

Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the beef broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Cook Noodles

In a separate pot, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Combine and Serve

After simmering, add the frozen peas and carrots to the beef mixture. Stir in the cooked noodles. Cook for another 5 minutes, then serve warm.

Pro Tips

For an extra dimension of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine along with the beef broth. It pairs wonderfully with the beef. You can also replace egg noodles with your favorite pasta if needed.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Comfort Food Beef and Noodles, consider a simple garnish of fresh parsley or chives to enhance the visual appeal and add a touch of freshness. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving also adds depth. I often serve this dish alongside crusty bread or homemade biscuits to soak up the savory broth; it makes for a heartwarming meal.

For a side dish, a light salad with a zesty vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. You could pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the meal perfectly. The combination of textures and flavors will impress your family and guests alike.

Flavor Variations

If you're looking to add a unique twist to your Comfort Food Beef and Noodles, consider including different vegetables. Bell peppers, mushrooms, or green beans can be added for extra nutrition and texture. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly; firmer vegetables may need a few extra minutes in the simmering step.

Another option is to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding a bay leaf during the simmering phase can deepen the flavors, or a splash of balsamic vinegar towards the end can add a delightful tang. Feel free to get creative with flavors that inspire you to make this dish your own.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken or pork, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the beef and noodles. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it with a simple garden salad or crusty bread for dipping.