This Easy Beef and Noodles dish is a perfect solution for busy nights. Tender beef mixed with soft egg noodles and a tasty sauce delivers comfort in each bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend using lean ground beef for this dish to keep it flavorful yet not overly greasy. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken also works well.
Egg Noodles: These noodles are perfect because they cook quickly. If you’re out, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, like spaghetti or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time based on your choice!
Sour Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you’re lactose intolerant, try using plain Greek yogurt as a substitute—it’s creamy and tangy!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a nice richness. However, feel free to swap it for mozzarella or even omit it if you prefer a lighter dish.
How Do You Get the Beef Perfectly Cooked and Flavored?
The key to cooking the beef is to break it into small pieces while browning. This helps it cook evenly and ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Heat your skillet on medium before adding the beef. This helps it sear rather than steam.
- Keep stirring and breaking apart the beef. Aim for a nice brown color, which means it’s cooked well.
- Don’t rush the browning process! Let it sit for a bit before stirring to develop that lovely flavor.
Final tip: Drain excess fat if there’s too much. A little fat is okay for flavor, but too much can make the dish greasy!
Easy Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or chives (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe is quick and easy, taking about 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal without spending too much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente (cooked but still firm). Once they’re done, drain them in a colander and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, add the butter or oil and heat it over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are translucent and soft.
3. Add Garlic and Beef:
Next, add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up and cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked. If there’s a lot of fat in the pan, feel free to drain some off to keep the dish from getting too greasy.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour the beef broth into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, which will help the flavors blend together. Then, reduce the heat and stir in the sour cream until everything is beautifully combined. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Combine with Noodles:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything gently until the noodles are well coated with the creamy beef mixture.
6. Add Cheese and Serve:
If you like, you can sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts. Finally, serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if you wish.
This comforting dish serves about 4 people and is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy your meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a leaner option. Just cook it until browned, like you would with ground beef, and follow the recipe as usual.
What If I Don’t Have Beef Broth?
No worries! You can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth as a substitute. It will still add great flavor to the dish!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the beef and noodle mixture, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it gently on the stove, adding a bit more broth or sour cream if it seems too dry.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
