Description
French Onion Beef and Noodles
Ingredients:
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb beef stew meat
1 tsp onion powder
1½ cups beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 cups cooked fettuccine
1 cup shredded mozzarella
Steps:
Sauté beef in oil until browned; set aside.
Add broth and Worcestershire, simmer for 10 minutes.
Toss noodles with the beef mixture in an oven-safe pan.
Top with mozzarella and broil until golden.
What side dish would you serve with this?
#OnionCheeseBeef
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect French Onion Beef and Noodles every time.
- Preheat your broiler to high and position an oven rack about 6 inches from the heat source.
- Season the beef stew meat generously with salt, pepper, and the onion powder.
- In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Sear without moving for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply browned. Remove beef and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium. Carefully pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits (fond) from the bottom. This adds incredible flavor.
- Return the browned beef and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender and the sauce to reduce slightly.
- While the beef simmers, cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Drain.
- Add the cooked and drained fettuccine directly to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated.
- Evenly top the entire mixture with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Transfer the skillet to the oven and broil for 2-4 minutes, watching closely, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has golden-brown spots.
- Remove from oven (careful, the handle will be hot!) and let cool for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and savory dish pairs beautifully with sides that offer a fresh or crisp contrast. A simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette cuts through the richness. For a vegetable side, try roasted asparagus or sautéed green beans. A crusty baguette is also perfect for soaking up any remaining savory sauce.
How-to Summary
In short: Season and brown beef. Simmer it in a broth and Worcestershire sauce. Toss with cooked pasta in an oven-safe skillet. Top with cheese and broil until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef? Yes, you can use sirloin tips or even thinly sliced steak for a quicker cook. Stew meat is ideal for its tenderness after simmering.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet? After combining the beef and noodles in your regular skillet, transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish before adding cheese and broiling.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the beef and sauce mixture ahead and store it in the fridge. When ready, reheat it, combine with freshly cooked pasta, add cheese, and broil.
Is there a substitute for Worcestershire sauce? Soy sauce or balsamic vinegar (use half the amount) can provide a similar savory, umami depth in a pinch.
Can I use a different cheese? Absolutely. Provolone, Gruyère, or a Swiss blend would be excellent alternatives that melt well and complement the French onion flavor profile.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Pan: Overcrowding the beef when browning will steam it instead of creating a flavorful sear. Cook in batches if needed.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cook your fettuccine to al dente, as it will continue to absorb sauce and soften slightly when broiled.
- Walking Away from the Broiler: Cheese can go from perfectly golden to burnt in seconds. Watch it closely during the final step.
- Skipping the Fond: Not deglazing the pan after browning the beef means leaving the best, most flavorful bits behind. Always scrape the pan when adding the liquid.
Conclusion
This French Onion Beef and Noodles recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort. The combination of savory beef, rich broth, and melted cheese over tender pasta is universally satisfying. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can easily master this delicious one-pan dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
