If you’re anything like me, your fondest culinary memories come from family gatherings. The kitchen filled with laughter, the clatter of pots and pans, and, most importantly, the smell of something delicious simmering on the stove.
If there’s one dish that captures this nostalgic spirit, it’s Grandma’s Beef and Noodles. This dish is the crowning glory of comfort food, and it pairs flawlessly with a crisp, garden salad or a hearty piece of crusty bread.
So, roll up your sleeves, bring out those mixing bowls, and let’s dive into a delightful journey that not only satisfies the stomach but also warms the soul.
What is Grandma’s Beef and Noodles?
At its core, this dish is a rich and hearty meal that combines tender beef chunks with egg noodles in a delicious broth. The beef is simmered slowly until it’s fork-tender, absorbing every bit of flavor from garlic, onions, and herbs.
The egg noodles soak up this savory goodness, creating a dish that embodies the essence of warmth and love.
This isn’t just any recipe; it’s rooted in tradition. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I can assure you that foods like Grandma’s Beef and Noodles not only satisfy the palate but also evoke cherished memories.
Cooking this dish is not just about following a recipe; it’s about continuing our family heritage, passing down secrets of the kitchen, and sharing love through our plates.
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The Flavor Profile
This dish is a tapestry of flavors. Imagine the deep, meaty richness from the beef, beautifully complemented by the sweetness of onions and the earthiness of thyme. Then, picture each twist of egg noodle soaking up this symphony of flavors.
The hint of smoked paprika adds a subtle warmth, while the Worcestershire sauce contributes depth. Each bite tells a story, wrapping you in a comforting embrace.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Simplicity in Preparation: This dish is straightforward to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.
Family Favorite: This dish appeals to all ages, making it a surefire hit at family gatherings.
Versatility: It can easily be adapted to suit dietary needs or preferences, whether you’re switching types of noodles or adjusting spices.
Culinary Tradition: This recipe is steeped in love and tradition, making it more than just food.
Ingredients
To create Grandma’s Beef and Noodles, you’ll need the following ingredients:
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 2-inch chunks
1 large yellow onion, chopped
2 tablespoons plain flour
2 fresh thyme sprigs
12 ounces broad egg noodles
7 cups beef broth, divided
5 cloves garlic, finely minced
fine sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
1 dried bay leaf
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
First things first! Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your beef chunks to the pot.
Sear the beef on all sides until it develops a nice brown crust. This will add flavor, so don’t rush it! Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release those enticing aromas.
Step 3: Create the Base
Sprinkle the plain flour over the onions and garlic. Stir it in to create a roux, cooking for about a minute. This will help thicken your broth later. Gradually pour in 7 cups of beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Add the Flavors
Bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Add the seared beef back into the pot, along with the thyme sprigs, bay leaf, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Simmer the Beef
Cover the pot and let the beef simmer on low heat for about 2 to 3 hours. The longer you can let it simmer, the more tender and flavorful the beef will be.
Step 6: Cook the Noodles
Once the beef is tender, remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Increase the heat and bring the broth back to a boil. Add the broad egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 5-7 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the noodles are cooked, give the dish a gentle stir. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the beef and noodles into bowls, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the warmth and comfort each bite brings!
Tips & Tricks
Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut the beef into uniform chunks for even cooking.
Use Good Broth: The quality of the beef broth makes a significant difference. Opt for low-sodium if you prefer more control over the salt.
Let it Rest: If you have time, allow it to sit for a bit before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully with a little time.
Reheat Gently: When stored and reheated, be sure to do it gently over low heat to maintain texture.
Customize Your Noodles: Feel free to swap the broad egg noodles for any pasta you prefer, including gluten-free options.
Nutrition Information
Grandmas Beef And Noodles Recipe Nutrition Facts
How Can You Store This Grandma’s Beef and Noodles?
Leftovers?
Yes, please! Store any leftover Beef and Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it over medium heat on the stove. The flavors develop further, and it’s just as delightful the next day.
Ingredient Alternatives
Not everyone has every ingredient on hand. Here are some alternatives you can consider:
Beef: If beef isn’t available, chicken thighs work as a great substitute, providing a different flavor while maintaining tenderness when cooked.
Broth: In a pinch, vegetable broth can work, but this will alter the dish’s overall flavor profile significantly.
Noodles: If egg noodles are a no-show, try using whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist.
Equipment
- Pot
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
- 2 pounds beef chuck cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 large yellow onion chopped
- 2 tablespoons plain flour
- 2 fresh thyme sprigs
- 12 ounces broad egg noodles
- 7 cups beef broth divided
- 5 cloves garlic finely minced
- fine sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 dried bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
- First things first! Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your beef chunks to the pot.
- Sear the beef on all sides until it develops a nice brown crust. This will add flavor, so don’t rush it! Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release those enticing aromas.
Step 3: Create the Base
- Sprinkle the plain flour over the onions and garlic. Stir it in to create a roux, cooking for about a minute. This will help thicken your broth later. Gradually pour in 7 cups of beef broth, stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
Step 4: Add the Flavors
- Bring the broth to a gentle simmer. Add the seared beef back into the pot, along with the thyme sprigs, bay leaf, smoked paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Simmer the Beef
- Cover the pot and let the beef simmer on low heat for about 2 to 3 hours. The longer you can let it simmer, the more tender and flavorful the beef will be.
Step 6: Cook the Noodles
- Once the beef is tender, remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Increase the heat and bring the broth back to a boil. Add the broad egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 5-7 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the noodles are cooked, give the dish a gentle stir. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the beef and noodles into bowls, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy the warmth and comfort each bite brings!
Notes
- Cut Evenly: Make sure to cut the beef into uniform chunks for even cooking.
- Use Good Broth: The quality of the beef broth makes a significant difference. Opt for low-sodium if you prefer more control over the salt.
- Let it Rest: If you have time, allow it to sit for a bit before serving. The flavors meld together beautifully with a little time.
- Reheat Gently: When stored and reheated, be sure to do it gently over low heat to maintain texture.
- Customize Your Noodles: Feel free to swap the broad egg noodles for any pasta you prefer, including gluten-free options.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Grandma’s Beef and Noodles?
Yes, this dish freezes quite well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
2. How do I know when the beef is tender?
After a few hours of simmering, the beef should easily fall apart with little effort. If it doesn’t feel tender, give it more time.
3. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Carrots, peas, or corn can be great additions. Stir them in when you add the noodles for extra flavor and nutrition.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans. A slice of homemade bread wouldn’t hurt either!
5. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and tastes fantastic after a day or two in the fridge, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.
Conclusion
Grandma’s Beef and Noodles is more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt tribute to family traditions. This dish carries the essence of home and comfort, serving deliciously on chilly evenings or as a centerpiece during gatherings.
As you prepare this recipe, each step connects you to generations of cooking, fostering a love for homemade meals.
So why wait?
Gather your loved ones, whip up this classic dish, and create new memories in your kitchen. After all, every bowl filled with Grandma’s Beef and Noodles tells a story of love, warmth, and togetherness. Enjoy every bite!