This quick and tasty beef and noodles dish is perfect for busy nights! With tender beef, soft noodles, and a yummy sauce, it’s all ready in just 30 minutes.
I love how easy it is to put together—just cook your beef, add the noodles, and let the flavors combine. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. You can use lean ground beef to reduce fat. If you’re avoiding beef, turkey or browned tempeh can be tasty substitutes.
Egg Noodles: They give a comforting texture. If you want a gluten-free option, rice noodles or zucchini noodles work well too.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess. Greek yogurt can be used for a healthier twist, or skip it altogether for a lighter dish.
Beef Broth: This adds depth of flavor. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth will work just as nicely.
How Can I Ensure My Noodles Don’t Stick Together?
Stickiness can be annoying! To keep your noodles from clumping, here are some tips:
- Stir them occasionally while cooking. This helps separate them and prevents sticking.
- Make sure there’s enough broth when adding noodles so they have the space to move around.
- Rinse them briefly after draining if you’re not mixing them right away—this stops the cooking process and cools them slightly.
By following these steps, your noodles will be fluffy and ready to soak up that delicious sauce!
Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef and noodles dish takes about 5 minutes to prep and around 25 minutes to cook. So, in just 30 minutes, you’re ready to serve a hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they smell fantastic and the onion turns translucent.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook it until it’s browned and fully cooked, making sure to break it up into smaller pieces with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s any excess fat after cooking, feel free to drain it off.
3. Season the Beef
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the paprika, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix it well to combine the flavors.
4. Add Broth and Bring to a Boil
Pour the beef broth into the skillet, then raise the heat and bring it to a boil. This will create a rich, flavorful base for your dish.
5. Cook the Noodles
Add the egg noodles and frozen peas (if you’re including them) into the boiling broth. Lower the heat to medium, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender. Remember to stir occasionally so they don’t stick together!
6. Mix in Sour Cream
After the noodles are cooked, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the sour cream until everything is combined and creamy—you’ll love the richness it adds!
7. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Give your beef and noodle dish a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper.
8. Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Serve your beef and noodles warm and enjoy!
Dig into this comforting meal that’s quick to make and sure to please everyone at the table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Alternative Noodles for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with whole wheat noodles, rice noodles, or even gluten-free pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions for the noodles you choose.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
To lighten up the recipe, consider using leaner ground beef, such as 90% lean or turkey. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to increase the fiber and nutrient content!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat gently on the stove before serving. If you anticipate leftovers, consider leaving the sour cream out until you’re ready to eat for the best texture.
What Should I Serve with Beef and Noodles?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but if you’d like to add sides, consider a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a nice contrast. Crusty bread also pairs well for scooping up that tasty sauce!
