Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles

Introduction
Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. With tender beef stew meat, rich gravy, and perfectly cooked egg noodles, this one-pot meal is easy to prepare and packed with satisfying flavors. It’s a hands-off recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort and deliciousness.

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Why Make This Recipe

A Comforting Classic
This dish combines the rich flavors of slow-cooked beef with creamy, savory gravy and tender egg noodles, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Perfect for Busy Days
With minimal prep and the help of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a home-cooked meal without standing over the stove. Just set it and forget it!

Family-Friendly
Beef and noodles is a universally loved dish, making it an excellent choice for picky eaters or large gatherings.

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Ingredients & Substitutions

• 2 pounds beef stew meat – Choose well-marbled beef for extra tenderness. Substitute with chuck roast or any slow-cooking cut.
• 1.087-ounce packet brown gravy mix – McCormick is preferred, but any brand works. Use a reduced-sodium version if needed.
• 1-ounce packet au jus mix – Adds depth and richness to the sauce. Opt for reduced-sodium if concerned about salt levels.
• 1 cup water – Can be replaced with beef broth for added flavor.
• 12-ounce package wide egg noodles – Substitute with your favorite pasta shape or even mashed potatoes for a different spin.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Vegetables: Add diced carrots, peas, or green beans for extra nutrition.
• Seasonings: Include garlic powder, onion powder, or a pinch of thyme for more flavor.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker

In the crock of a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker, combine beef stew meat, gravy mix, au jus mix, and water. Stir well to coat the meat evenly with the seasonings.

Tip: For extra depth of flavor, brown the beef in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.

2. Slow Cook the Beef

Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The beef will become incredibly tender and infused with the rich flavors of the gravy.

Tip: If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 4 to 5 hours, but the low setting ensures the best results.

3. Cook the Noodles

About 20 minutes before the beef is done, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Tip: Toss the cooked noodles with a bit of butter to prevent them from sticking together.

4. Thicken the Gravy (Optional)

If the gravy is too thin, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water or broth. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker, cover, and increase the heat to high for about 20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

5. Assemble and Serve

Serve the tender beef and rich gravy over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness.

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How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles

• Classic Presentation: Serve the beef and gravy over egg noodles in shallow bowls for a hearty meal.
• Side Pairings: Pair with a side of steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or buttery dinner rolls for a complete dinner.
• Customizations: Add a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle of grated Parmesan for extra richness.

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How to Store Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the gravy if needed.
• Freezer: Freeze the beef and gravy (without noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving with freshly cooked noodles.

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Tips to Make This Recipe

1. Browning the Meat: While optional, browning the beef adds a layer of flavor that enhances the final dish.
2. Control the Salt: Use reduced-sodium gravy and au jus mixes if you’re concerned about sodium levels.
3. Gravy Consistency: For a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch slurry as described in the recipe. Alternatively, use less water for a naturally thicker consistency.

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Variations

• Vegetable Boost: Add mushrooms, carrots, or peas to the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Twist: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne for a subtle heat.
• Mashed Potato Option: Serve the beef and gravy over creamy mashed potatoes instead of noodles for a cozy alternative.

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FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, chuck roast or even pork shoulder works well in this recipe. Just ensure the cooking time is adjusted as needed.

2. How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free gravy and au jus mixes, and swap egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta or mashed potatoes.

3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! The beef and gravy taste even better the next day. Store separately from the noodles to keep the texture perfect.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is the ultimate comfort meal—rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare. With its tender beef and savory gravy served over a bed of egg noodles, it’s a dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Try it today and enjoy the effortless magic of slow-cooked comfort food!