This Quick and Easy Beef and Noodles dish is perfect for busy nights! With tender beef, savory noodles, and a flavorful sauce, it comes together in no time.
Seriously, who doesn’t love a tasty meal that’s ready in a flash? I often whip this up when I want something comforting without all the fuss. It’s just so simple!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can also use thinly sliced flank steak or sirloin for a different texture. For a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken work well too!
Egg Noodles: These are perfect for soaking up the sauce. If you’re looking for alternatives, you could use rice noodles or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier twist.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the dish. If you want a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream substitute. Greek yogurt is another good alternative!
Worcestershire Sauce: This brings a depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, soy sauce mixed with a drop of vinegar can do the trick.
How Can I Make Sure My Beef is Tasty and Tender?
Cooking the beef properly is key to this dish! Make sure to brown it well for maximum flavor. Here are steps to keep your beef tender:
- Use medium-high heat to get a good sear, which locks in juices.
- If using ground beef, break it up into small pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; if needed, cook in batches!
- Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving to keep it juicy.
With these tips, your beef and noodles will be bursting with flavor and texture. Enjoy your meal!
Quick and Easy Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes total, including 10 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick meal that gives you more time to enjoy! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re just tender (al dente). Once cooked, drain them and set them aside. This is the perfect time to get your skillet ready for the beef!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add your olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
3. Cook the Beef:
Add your ground beef or sliced beef strips into the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using ground beef, make sure to break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off now.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth, making sure to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This adds incredible flavor!
5. Add Creaminess:
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the sour cream. Mix well until everything is nicely combined, but be careful not to let it boil. This will keep it creamy and delicious!
6. Combine with Noodles:
Now, add those cooked noodles to your skillet and gently toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated in the sauce and beef mixture. Such a comforting sight!
7. Final Seasoning:
Give it a taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Adjust according to your flavor preferences!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with some chopped parsley if you’d like a pop of color. Serve warm, and get ready to enjoy this quick and comforting meal!
Remember, cooking should be fun and relaxed! Enjoy your Quick and Easy Beef and Noodles!
FAQ for Quick and Easy Beef and Noodles
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even thinly sliced pork or steak. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What If I Don’t Have Sour Cream?
No problem! You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a similar creamy texture. Just be careful to add these gradually so you can adjust the thickness to your liking.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat it up and add the cooked noodles. This can save you time on busier nights!