This Beef and Noodles with Onion and Garlic Broth recipe is a hearty, comforting meal perfect for chilly days. Tender chunks of beef simmered with onions, garlic, and fragrant herbs create a rich and flavorful broth that pairs beautifully with egg noodles. Topped with a sprinkle of Gruyère or Swiss cheese and fresh parsley, each bite is satisfying and warming. This recipe is simple enough for a cozy weeknight dinner but delicious enough to serve at gatherings. Grab a bowl and savor the rich flavors and textures of this beef and noodles dish!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- Beef Chuck Roast: 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Onion: 2 large, thinly sliced
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Beef Broth: 4 cups
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Dried Thyme: 1 teaspoon
- Bay Leaves: 2
- Egg Noodles: 12 ounces
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Grated Gruyère or Swiss Cheese: for topping (optional)
- Fresh Parsley: chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Beef
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches (to avoid overcrowding) and sear until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Transfer the browned beef to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and softened, about 10-12 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Combine Ingredients for the Broth
- Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add the soy sauce, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are well-developed.
- Cook the Egg Noodles
- About 15 minutes before the beef is done, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside.
- Combine the Noodles and Broth
- Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaves from the pot. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the pot, stirring gently to coat the noodles in the broth and to evenly distribute the beef and onions.
- Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the beef and noodles into bowls. Top with grated Gruyère or Swiss cheese, if desired, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for garnish. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 950mg
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 38g
Note: Nutrition values may vary depending on the size of portions and specific ingredients used.
Tips for Making the Perfect Beef and Noodles with Onion and Garlic Broth
- Use Quality Beef: Beef chuck roast is ideal for this recipe because it becomes tender and flavorful with slow cooking. Trim excess fat for a leaner result.
- Caramelize the Onions: Caramelizing the onions adds depth and sweetness to the broth. Take your time with this step for the best flavor.
- Add Extra Vegetables: For a heartier meal, consider adding sliced carrots, celery, or mushrooms along with the onions. They’ll contribute more flavor and nutrition.
- Experiment with Fresh Herbs: While dried thyme works well, fresh thyme or rosemary can add a burst of aroma. Just remember to remove them before serving.
- Cheese Topping Variations: Gruyère and Swiss cheese pair well with the broth, but you can also use Parmesan for a nuttier flavor or mozzarella for a creamier texture.
- Add a Splash of Red Wine: For a richer, deeper flavor, deglaze the pot with a splash of red wine after caramelizing the onions and garlic. Let it cook for a few minutes to reduce slightly before adding the broth.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, while egg noodles provide a classic texture, you can substitute with other pasta like penne or fettuccine. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the pasta type.
2. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can brown the beef and onions in a skillet, then transfer everything (except the noodles) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cooked noodles at the end and serve.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
The beef and broth freeze well, but it’s best to freeze them without the noodles. Cook fresh noodles when ready to serve to avoid mushy texture.
4. What if my broth is too thin?
If you’d like a thicker broth, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the broth before adding the noodles. Simmer until the broth thickens.
5. Can I use pre-cooked or leftover beef?
Absolutely! Leftover roast beef can be a great addition to this recipe. Simply cut it into bite-sized pieces and add it during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the beef and broth without the noodles for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before adding fresh, cooked noodles.
Conclusion
Beef and Noodles with Onion and Garlic Broth is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s sure to warm you up on a chilly evening. The tender beef, caramelized onions, and savory broth come together beautifully with soft egg noodles, creating a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe delivers rich flavors that taste like they’ve been simmering all day. Whether topped with melted cheese, sprinkled with fresh parsley, or served with crusty bread, this hearty meal is perfect for sharing with loved ones. Enjoy the soul-soothing taste of this classic dish and make it a staple in your home cooking rotation!