French Onion Beef and Noodles is a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The tender beef is seared and simmered in a rich French onion soup and beef broth, creating a flavorful base. Egg noodles are cooked in the broth until tender, then combined with sour cream and Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish. Topped with crispy French fried onions, this dish is both satisfying and delicious. Serve it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. This recipe is easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.
If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, French Onion Beef and Noodles is the perfect dish for you. This recipe combines tender beef stew meat with the rich, savory taste of French onion soup, creating a delicious base for the creamy noodles and crispy French fried onions. It’s a meal that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends. The combination of textures and flavors in this dish is sure to make it a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
Here’s a detailed look at the ingredients you’ll need to make this flavorful French Onion Beef and Noodles:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for searing the beef and adding richness to the dish.
- 1 pound beef stew meat: Provides the main protein and is tenderized by simmering in the broth and soup.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a concentrated onion flavor that complements the French onion soup.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory taste of the beef.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the dish.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) French onion soup: Adds depth and a rich, savory base to the dish.
- 3 cups beef broth: Used to simmer the beef and cook the noodles, infusing them with flavor.
- 12 ounces egg noodles: The main starch component, absorbing the flavorful broth and soup.
- ½ cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to balance the rich flavors.
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese: Provides a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- 1 cup French fried onions: Adds a crispy texture and additional onion flavor as a topping.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re ready to create a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. The combination of tender beef, creamy noodles, and crispy onions makes this dish truly special. Next, we’ll walk you through the detailed instructions to prepare this delicious French Onion Beef and Noodles.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious and comforting French Onion Beef and Noodles dish. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for a satisfying dinner.
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. This will prepare the pot for searing the beef, which is crucial for developing a rich flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Add 1 pound of beef stew meat to the pot. Season the beef with 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Sauté the beef for 3-5 minutes, ensuring it is seared on all sides. This step locks in the juices and adds a deep, savory flavor to the beef.
Step 3: Simmer with Soup and Broth
Pour in 1 can (10.5 ounces) of French onion soup and 3 cups of beef broth. Stir to combine the liquids with the beef. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let the beef cook in the simmering broth and soup for about 10 minutes. This step helps to tenderize the beef and infuse it with the rich flavors of the soup and broth.
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Add 12 ounces of egg noodles to the pot. Continue to simmer the mixture for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the noodles cook evenly and absorb the flavorful broth. The noodles should be tender but not mushy by the end of this cooking time.
Step 5: Add Dairy
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in ½ cup of sour cream and ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese until well combined. The sour cream adds a creamy texture and a slight tang, while the Parmesan cheese enhances the savory flavor of the dish.
Step 6: Serve
Spoon the beef and noodle mixture into serving bowls. Sprinkle 1 cup of French fried onions over the top of each serving. The French fried onions add a delicious crunch and additional onion flavor, making the dish even more enjoyable.
These steps will guide you through making a flavorful and hearty French Onion Beef and Noodles dish that’s sure to become a favorite. In the next section, we’ll discuss serving and storage tips, along with some helpful notes and variations to enhance your cooking experience.
Serving and Storage Tips
Here are some tips for serving and storing your French Onion Beef and Noodles to ensure the best taste and quality:
Serving Tips
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: For a burst of freshness, garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. This adds a vibrant color and a mild herbal flavor that complements the rich beef and creamy noodles.
- Pair with Side Dishes: Serve this hearty dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. The freshness and crunch of the salad or vegetables balance the richness of the beef and noodles.
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed hot. Make sure to serve it immediately after preparation to ensure the noodles remain tender and the beef stays juicy.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, this dish can last for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to restore the creamy consistency.
- Freezing: If you wish to freeze the dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating Tips: To reheat, place the dish in a saucepan or microwave. For stovetop reheating, add a bit of beef broth to prevent the noodles from drying out. For microwave reheating, cover the dish to retain moisture and heat evenly.
Helpful Notes and Variations
Here are some helpful notes and variations to customize your French Onion Beef and Noodles:
- Vegetable Additions: Add vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or carrots to the dish for extra nutrition and flavor. Sauté them with the beef or stir them in with the noodles.
- Cheese Variations: While Parmesan cheese adds a nice touch, you can also try other cheeses like Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Enhancements: Fresh thyme or rosemary can be added during the simmering step to enhance the flavor. Remove the herbs before serving for a subtle yet impactful taste.
Chef Ina Garten often emphasizes the importance of quality ingredients and simplicity in cooking. Embrace this approach by using the best ingredients you can find and enjoying the straightforward, comforting flavors of this dish. Experiment with these variations to make the recipe your own and create a dish that’s perfectly suited to your taste.