Slow cooker beef & noodles is a true Midwestern comfort dish that embodies the heart and soul of rural living.
Passed down through generations, this rich and hearty meal graced many farm tables after a long day’s work.
The slow cooking brings out the full flavors of the beef, melding beautifully with tender noodles.
It’s the type of recipe that not only fills your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma but also fills your heart with memories of family gatherings and Sunday suppers.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a freshly baked loaf of crusty bread to soak up the savory gravy.
Consider serving it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.
For a true Midwestern touch, add a side of sweet corn or steamed green beans with a pat of butter.
And don’t forget a slice of homemade pie for dessert to complete the meal. It creates a welcoming, uncomplicated dinner that everyone will love.
Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles
Servings: 6-8 servings
Ingredients
2 lbs of beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 onion, finely chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
3 cups egg noodles
1/4 cup flour
1/4 cup water
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Directions
1. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the beef pieces until well-seared on all sides. This step is optional but adds a rich depth of flavor.
2. Transfer the beef to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf.
3. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender and you’re able to shred it with a fork.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, remove the bay leaf and add the egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir to combine with the beef and cooking liquid.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the flour and water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
6. Add the Worcestershire sauce, stir well, and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy the warm, nostalgic flavors.
How to Store
Refrigerator:
Let the dish cool to room temperature (within 2 hours of cooking).
Transfer to an airtight container.
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid.
Freezer:
For best texture, it’s ideal to freeze the beef and sauce without the noodles (they can become mushy).
Allow the beef mixture to cool completely.
Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space for expansion.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
To serve from frozen:
Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat in a pot on the stove or in a slow cooker on low until warmed through.
Boil fresh egg noodles separately and stir them in just before serving for the best texture.
Variations
1. Creamy Version
Stir in ½ cup of sour cream or cream cheese at the end for a rich, creamy twist.
2. Mushroom Lover’s
Add 8 oz of sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy depth.
Substitute 1 cup of the beef broth with mushroom broth or red wine for extra savoriness.
3. Veggie Boost
Add diced carrots or celery at the beginning for more texture and nutrition.
Stir in frozen peas or green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Shortcut Noodles
Instead of dry egg noodles, use frozen Reames-style egg noodles for an extra tender, homemade-style texture.
Add them 1–2 hours before serving and keep an eye on the consistency.
5. Extra Hearty
For a stew-like meal, toss in cubed potatoes along with the beef—skip the noodles altogether for a rustic twist.
6. Southern-Style Twist
Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne for some warmth.
Serve over mashed potatoes or buttermilk biscuits instead of noodles.
Tips for Success
Brown the beef: It’s optional, but searing the meat first builds a deep, caramelized flavor that really pays off.
Don’t overcook the noodles: Add them only during the last 30 minutes to prevent them from turning mushy.
Flour slurry tip: Mix flour and cold water thoroughly to avoid lumps—shake it in a small jar with a lid for no fuss.
Keep it warm: Once done, your slow cooker can keep the dish warm on the “warm” setting for about 1–2 hours—just give it a stir now and then.
Make it ahead: Cook the beef and sauce the day before, refrigerate, and then reheat with fresh noodles the next day for best texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: ~420
Protein: ~32g
Carbohydrates: ~30g
Sugars: ~2g
Fiber: ~2g
Fat: ~20g
Saturated Fat: ~7g
Cholesterol: ~90mg
Sodium: ~850mg
Iron: ~3mg
Calcium: ~40mg
Health Notes
This dish is high in protein and great for a hearty, filling meal.
To lighten it up, consider using lean stew meat or trimming fat from chuck roast.
For a lower-sodium version, opt for low-sodium beef broth and adjust added salt.
Add extra vegetables for more fiber and micronutrients.