This comforting dish features tender beef mixed with silky noodles in a rich, hearty sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for any chilly day.
I love how this recipe brings back memories of family dinners. You can never go wrong with extra noodles, right? It’s always a hit at my house!
Making this classic is simple. Just simmer the beef, add the noodles, and let them soak up all that flavor. It’s a cozy meal that feels like home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef or Stew Meat: Both options work, but I often go for ground beef for quicker cooking. If you want a leaner choice, turkey or chicken can also be substituted.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is great, but store-bought works just fine! For a lighter option, you could use vegetable broth.
Wide Egg Noodles: These give a comforting texture. You could swap them for other noodles, like fettuccine or even gluten-free alternatives if needed.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try coconut cream or a thick cashew cream instead.
How Do I Ensure My Beef is Tender?
Getting tender beef in this dish is crucial for the best texture. If you’re using stew meat, the secret is to simmer it low and slow. This helps break down the tough fibers.
- Brown the meat well to develop flavor.
- After adding the broth, let it simmer for at least 30-40 minutes for beef chunks. Ground beef cooks faster.
- If it’s too tough, just give it more simmering time—tender beef is totally worth the wait!
Grandma’s Classic Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef or beef stew meat, cut into small pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
For the Noodles and Sauce:
- 2 cups wide egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish (optional):
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1/2 tsp paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at roughly 40 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy family dinner without spending all day in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large skillet or pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they become soft and fragrant. This is where the wonderful flavors begin!
2. Brown the Beef:
Now, add your ground beef or the stew meat to the skillet. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is nicely browned. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika if you want a little kick!
3. Add Flour for Thickness:
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat all the meat. Cook this for an additional minute; this helps to eliminate the raw flour taste and starts to thicken your sauce.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where all those flavors come together!
5. Cook the Noodles:
Add the wide egg noodles to the simmering broth. Cook them according to the package instructions, which should take about 8-10 minutes, until they are tender and absorbing all the delicious flavors.
6. Creamy Sauce Time:
Once the noodles are cooked, lower the heat, and stir in the sour cream. Mix until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish with dried parsley if desired. Serve your comforting beef and noodles hot, ready to bring warmth and coziness to your table. It’s like a hug in a bowl!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe works best with ground beef or beef stew meat, you can also use pork, chicken, or even turkey. Just ensure to adjust the cooking times based on the type of meat you choose.
Can I Substitute the Sour Cream?
Yes, if you don’t have sour cream, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or use cream cheese for a different creamy texture. Just be sure to adjust the amount to taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to restore creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the beef mixture and noodles and store them separately before combining with sour cream. Just reheat the beef and noodles together before serving. This can make weeknight dinners a breeze!
