Crockpot Beef and Noodles

Crockpot Beef and Noodles is a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs comfort meal made with tender shredded beef and hearty egg noodles in a savory, rich gravy. This slow-cooked classic is simple to prepare and delivers deep flavor with minimal effort. Just toss everything in the crockpot, let it cook low and slow, and come home to a warm, satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal prep — the crockpot does all the work
• Hearty, comforting, and filling
• Perfect for cold nights or busy days
• Great for feeding a family or meal prepping
• Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef chuck roast or stew meat
• Salt and black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Beef broth
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Worcestershire sauce
• Egg noodles (wide or homestyle)
• Cornstarch or flour (optional, for thickening)
• Butter (optional for richness)
• Parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Prep the Beef: Season the beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Layer Ingredients: Place the beef in the crockpot. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth.
3. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
4. Shred the Beef: Remove the beef and shred it with two forks. Return it to the crockpot and stir.
5. Add Noodles: Add the uncooked egg noodles to the crockpot. Stir, then cover and cook on high for 20–30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Stir occasionally if possible.
6. Thicken (Optional): If the mixture is too thin, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) and let it cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
7. Serve: Spoon into bowls and top with a pat of butter or chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours (low) or 4–5 hours (high)
Total Time: 8–8.5 hours

Variations

• Creamy version: Stir in a bit of sour cream or heavy cream at the end for a creamier finish.
• Add mushrooms: Toss in sliced mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
• Use other noodles: Swap egg noodles for rotini or penne if preferred.
• Herb boost: Add thyme or rosemary while cooking for extra depth.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. Can also be microwaved in short intervals.

FAQs

What cut of beef works best?

Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked and shreds easily.

Can I use frozen beef?

It’s best to thaw the beef first for even cooking, but in a pinch, you can use frozen if your slow cooker allows it.

Can I cook the noodles separately?

Yes, you can boil the noodles separately and stir them in just before serving if you prefer more control over their texture.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it stores and reheats very well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.

Can I use canned broth?

Yes, canned or homemade beef broth both work great. Low-sodium is a good choice if you’re watching salt levels.

Do I need to sear the beef first?

It’s optional. Searing adds extra flavor, but the recipe still works well without it.

What if the noodles soak up too much liquid?

Add an extra splash of broth or water if needed once the noodles are cooked.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently.

What sides go well with this dish?

A side salad, roasted veggies, or crusty bread pairs well with this hearty main dish.

How do I make it thicker?

Use cornstarch or flour slurry to thicken the broth near the end of cooking if needed.

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef and Noodles is the ultimate set-it-and-forget-it comfort food. With tender beef, rich broth, and soft noodles all cooked together, it’s a cozy classic that never disappoints. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want a warm bowl of something hearty, this one-pot slow cooker meal is always a win.

Print