Hearty Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles
“My husband’s absolute favorite—he’s already reaching for seconds before I’ve even sat down.”
There’s something comforting about a warm, savory bowl of beef and noodles. This dish is a staple in our home, especially on busy weekdays or chilly evenings. The slow-cooked beef becomes fall-apart tender, while the noodles soak up every bit of the flavorful gravy. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of nostalgic Midwestern charm.
Pair it with:
A crusty loaf of fresh bread—perfect for mopping up the sauce—and a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to lighten the meal. For that extra touch of home, serve it alongside buttered sweet corn or steamed green beans. And if you’re feeling indulgent, a slice of homemade pie makes the perfect finish.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 cups egg noodles
- ¼ cup flour
- ¼ cup water
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Brown the Beef (Optional but Recommended):
In a large skillet over medium heat, sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor and adds richness to the final dish. - Load the Slow Cooker:
Transfer the seared beef to your slow cooker. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, salt, pepper, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf. - Let It Simmer:
Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easy to shred with a fork. - Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before serving, remove the bay leaf and stir in the egg noodles. Make sure they’re submerged in the broth. - Thicken the Gravy:
In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and water until smooth. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker along with the Worcestershire sauce. Mix well. - Final Simmer:
Continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are soft and the sauce has thickened to a rich, comforting gravy. - Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon generous portions into bowls and serve hot with your favorite sides. Leftovers (if any!) taste even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love It
- Minimal prep and hands-off cooking
- Great for meal planning and leftovers
- Comfort food at its finest
This is the kind of meal that brings people to the table—and keeps them coming back for more.