Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef: Using ground beef gives a great texture. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, you can use mushrooms or textured vegetable protein (TVP).

Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional for this dish, but feel free to swap them for any pasta you have on hand, like fettuccine or even gluten-free noodles.

Beef Broth: This ingredient adds depth to the dish. You can use chicken broth in a pinch, or for extra flavor, homemade broth is fantastic if you have it. Stock can also work well.

Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy texture. If you’re dairy-free, almond or oat milk can be a good alternative. Just go for unsweetened varieties.

How Do I Get Perfectly Browned Beef?

Getting the beef just right is essential for flavor. Here’s how to do it:

• Ensure your skillet is hot before adding the beef. This helps create a nice sear.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan. If needed, cook in batches for even browning.
• Let the beef cook without stirring for a minute to build that great brown color.

These steps will help you achieve flavorful and perfectly browned beef in your dish!

Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or thinly sliced beef sirloin
• 8 oz (225 g) egg noodles
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup milk
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delightful beef and noodle recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of around just 30 minutes. It’s a quick meal perfect for busy weekdays or when you’re craving something hearty!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

Start by boiling water in a pot. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them in a colander and set aside while you work on the beef.

2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and cook them until they are softened and slightly translucent, about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its wonderful aroma.

3. Brown the Beef:

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart into smaller pieces. Cook the beef until it’s browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s too much fat in the pan, you can drain a bit off.

4. Add Flour and Make the Sauce:

Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. This step will help thicken the sauce. Cook it for 1-2 minutes so the raw taste of the flour disappears. Then, gradually pour in the beef broth and milk, mixing thoroughly to avoid any lumps. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sauce thickens up, about 5 minutes.

5. Combine and Season:

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce (if you’re using it), and season with salt and pepper to taste. This will add extra flavor to your dish.

6. Mix in the Noodles:

Now it’s time to add the drained noodles to your skillet. Carefully toss them in the beef sauce until they’re well coated.

7. Finish with Butter:

Remove the skillet from the heat, and stir in the butter until it melts and combines into the sauce, giving a rich, creamy finish.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Garnish your beef and noodles with freshly chopped parsley or chives, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal!

This recipe is not just quick but also delicious and satisfying, perfect for any occasion! Enjoy your hearty beef and noodles made in just 30 minutes!

FAQ for Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles

Can I Use Different Types of Meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even thinly sliced pork. For a vegetarian option, try using mushrooms or textured vegetable protein (TVP) to achieve a similar texture.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes! To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free noodles. Check the label on the beef broth to ensure it’s gluten-free as well.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Definitely! You can enhance this dish by adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or broccoli. Just sauté them along with the onions for a few minutes before adding the beef, or stir them in with the noodles for added nutrition and flavor!