Description
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles
Ingredients
2 lbs chuck roast
1 packet dry onion soup mix
3 cups beef broth
1 can mushroom soup
12 oz egg noodles
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Place beef roast into the slow cooker.
Season with onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Add beef broth and mushroom soup.
Slow cook for 8 hours until beef is fork-tender.
Shred the beef and return to the sauce.
Cook egg noodles separately, then mix them in.
Enjoy this classic comfort meal!
#HeartyMeals #BeefRecipes #SlowCookedPerfection
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for perfect results every time. First, trim any large pieces of excess fat from the 2 lb chuck roast. Place it in the center of your slow cooker. Sprinkle the dry onion soup mix, garlic powder, and black pepper evenly over the top of the roast. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 cups of beef broth and the can of condensed mushroom soup until mostly smooth. Pour this mixture around and over the roast. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours. Do not open the lid during cooking. After 8 hours, the beef should shred easily with two forks. Shred all the meat directly in the slow cooker pot, letting it soak into the rich gravy. About 20 minutes before serving, cook the 12 oz of egg noodles separately according to package directions in salted water. Drain the noodles and then stir them into the slow cooker with the shredded beef and sauce until fully combined. Let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the noodles to absorb some flavor before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. For a pop of color and freshness, serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Steamed green beans, roasted carrots, or garlicky sautéed spinach also make excellent vegetable accompaniments. For a classic comfort food pairing, offer warm, crusty bread or flaky biscuits to soak up every last bit of the delicious gravy.
How-to Summary
Trim beef and place in slow cooker. Season with soup mix and spices. Add broth and mushroom soup. Cook on LOW for 8 hours. Shred the beef in the pot. Cook egg noodles separately, then stir into the beef and gravy. Serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook this on HIGH for less time?
Yes, you can cook on HIGH for 4-5 hours. However, the LOW setting yields more tender, shreddable beef as the connective tissues break down slowly.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking. Stew meat can be used, but may be slightly less tender. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin, as they can become dry.
Can I add the noodles directly to the slow cooker?
It’s not recommended. Cooking them separately prevents them from becoming mushy and absorbing all the sauce, which can make the dish too thick.
How can I thicken the sauce?
If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with ¼ cup cold water. Stir this slurry into the hot sauce after shredding the beef, cover, and cook on HIGH for 15-20 minutes.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth, as the noodles will continue to absorb liquid.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the slow cooker. Use at least a 6-quart model for this recipe.
- Lifting the lid during cooking, which releases heat and significantly increases cooking time.
- Adding uncooked noodles directly to the slow cooker, which results in a starchy, gummy texture.
- Using low-sodium broth without adjusting seasoning, as the soup mix is already salty.
- Cutting the roast into pieces before cooking, which can lead to drier meat compared to shredding it afterwards.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles recipe is the ultimate set-and-forget comfort meal. With minimal prep, you’re rewarded with incredibly tender beef and rich, savory gravy coating every noodle. It’s a forgiving, crowd-pleasing dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll achieve a delicious, hearty result that tastes like it simmered all day. Give this classic a try for a satisfying dinner that everyone will love.