Homemade Stovetop Beef and Noodles is a simple and comforting dish that brings together tender pieces of beef with soft, wide egg noodles all cooked together in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for chilly evenings or when you want something hearty without too much fuss. The combination of meat and noodles is classic and always hits the spot.
I love making this dish because it comes together quickly on the stovetop, making it an easy go-to when I’m short on time but still craving something satisfying. Using basic ingredients like beef, broth, and noodles means you probably have everything you need in your kitchen right now. I like to add a little garlic and onion for extra flavor, and sometimes a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top to brighten it up.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy homemade beef and noodles is with a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad. It’s also great for leftovers because the flavors really soak in overnight. Whenever I make it, it reminds me of cozy family dinners where everyone gathers around the table, sharing stories and enjoying a home-cooked meal together.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Using ground beef gives the dish great flavor and a tender texture. If you prefer leaner meat, try ground turkey or chicken. For a richer taste, you can also use ground chuck.
Wide Egg Noodles: Wide noodles hold the sauce well and offer a nice chew. If you can’t find them, pappardelle or flat fettuccine work fine too. Gluten-free options are great for those avoiding gluten.
Beef Broth: This adds depth and moisture. Low sodium broth lets you control the salt better. You can substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or use stock cubes dissolved in water.
Flour: Flour helps thicken the sauce and make it silky. If you want a gluten-free version, try cornstarch or arrowroot powder (mix in cold water first) instead.
Butter: Butter adds richness and smoothness. You can swap with olive oil for a lighter touch or dairy-free margarine if avoiding dairy.
How Do I Make Sure The Noodles Cook Perfectly Without Getting Mushy?
Cooking the noodles right is key to this dish’s success. Here are a few tips:
- Add the noodles only after the broth is boiling to start them cooking immediately.
- Stir occasionally to stop them from sticking to the bottom or clumping together.
- Keep the heat at medium-low and covered; this lets the noodles cook gently and absorb the flavors without boiling hard.
- Check noodles a couple of minutes before the time listed on the package to avoid overcooking—they should be tender but still have a little bite.
- If the sauce thickens too much before noodles are done, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Following these steps will give you soft, flavorful noodles that hold together beautifully with the beef mixture!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or saucepan – I prefer a wide, deep pan to cook everything evenly and prevent splatters.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir the ingredients without scratching the pan and keeps everything mixing smoothly.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate measurements of broth, spices, and seasonings.
- Colander or pasta strainer – to drain the noodles if needed.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping the onion, carrot, and parsley.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles instead of beef for variety or if you want a leaner or vegetarian option.
- Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for extra umami flavor.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or peas for added texture and nutrients.
- Sprinkle some grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top before serving for extra richness.
Homemade Stovetop Beef And Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth (preferably low sodium)
- 8 oz wide egg noodles (or any wide pasta noodles)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook, making it a quick and hearty dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Total time needed is approximately 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Veggies and Beef:
Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and carrot and cook for about 5 minutes, until they soften. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the ground beef next, breaking it up with your spoon. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, then drain any excess fat if needed.
2. Thicken the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture. Stir it well and cook for 1 to 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce if you’d like, dried thyme or Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
3. Cook the Noodles and Finish:
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the wide egg noodles, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the noodles from sticking and to help the sauce thicken. When the noodles are tender and the sauce is creamy, stir in the remaining tablespoon of butter. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4. Serve:
Scoop the beef and noodles onto plates or bowls. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Enjoy your warm, comforting homemade stovetop beef and noodles!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess moisture from making the dish watery.
Can I Substitute the Wide Egg Noodles?
Absolutely! You can use any wide pasta like pappardelle or fettuccine. If you prefer, try rice noodles or gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready, reheat gently and cook the noodles fresh to keep them from getting mushy.
