Looking for a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights? French Onion Beef and Noodles is your answer! This recipe combines the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender beef and egg noodles, creating a dish that’s both filling and flavorful. With a savory beef broth, caramelized onions, and melted cheese, this recipe takes the best parts of French onion soup and transforms them into a satisfying, one-pan meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat (or ground beef)
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 1 cup shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Caramelize the Onions:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, or until the onions are soft, golden brown, and caramelized. Lower the heat if the onions start to brown too quickly. Once caramelized, remove the onions from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the Beef:
In the same skillet, add the beef stew meat (or ground beef) and season with salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat until the beef is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. If using ground beef, cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat if needed. - Build the Flavor:
Add the caramelized onions back to the skillet with the beef. Stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. - Cook the Noodles:
Add the egg noodles directly into the skillet, ensuring they’re submerged in the broth. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let the noodles cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re tender and have absorbed most of the broth. - Add the Cheese:
Once the noodles are cooked, stir in half of the shredded cheese, letting it melt into the sauce. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top of the dish and cover the skillet for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This dish is delicious on its own or paired with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Total Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Tips for Making the Best French Onion Beef and Noodles:
- Choose the Right Cheese: Gruyère or Swiss cheese are the traditional choices for French onion soup, giving the dish a rich and creamy flavor. However, feel free to substitute with mozzarella or provolone if you prefer a milder cheese.
- Ground Beef vs. Stew Meat: You can use either ground beef or beef stew meat in this recipe. Ground beef cooks faster and is more budget-friendly, while stew meat offers a chunkier, more substantial bite.
- Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Add Extra Vegetables: To make this dish more nutritious, consider adding vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers. Sauté them with the onions or beef for a more colorful and balanced meal.
Why You’ll Love This French Onion Beef and Noodles Recipe:
This recipe is the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The deep, savory flavor of the caramelized onions combined with the tender beef and cheesy noodles makes for a dish that’s both hearty and delicious. It’s a great way to enjoy the classic taste of French onion soup in a more substantial, filling form. Plus, it all comes together in one skillet, which means fewer dishes and easy cleanup!
Whether you’re craving something cozy on a chilly night or need a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor, French Onion Beef and Noodles is sure to become a family favorite. The melty cheese, flavorful broth, and tender noodles make this dish irresistible.
FAQs: French Onion Beef and Noodles
1. Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?
Yes! While egg noodles work well because of their texture and ability to absorb the flavors, you can substitute with other pasta types like rotini, penne, or even fettuccine. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to maintain moisture.
3. Can I use ground beef instead of stew meat?
Yes, ground beef is a great alternative if you’re short on time or prefer a more budget-friendly option. It cooks faster and blends well with the other flavors, though stew meat offers a chunkier texture.
4. What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
Gruyère or Swiss cheese are ideal because they melt well and have a rich, slightly nutty flavor, which pairs perfectly with the onions. However, you can also use mozzarella, provolone, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile.
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! You can add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to increase the nutritional value and add more flavor. Sauté the vegetables with the onions or beef before adding the broth and noodles.
