Quick and Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Ground Beef or Sliced Beef: For this recipe, I prefer ground beef for its quick cooking time and texture. Thinly sliced beef like sirloin or flank steak works well too! If you’re looking for lighter options, try using turkey or chicken instead.

Egg Noodles: These are classic for beef and noodles. If you can’t find them, wide pasta noodles like fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta are great alternatives. Vegetables like zucchini noodles can work, too, for a lower carb option!

Sour Cream: This adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re watching your dairy intake, substituting Greek yogurt can provide a similar tang and creaminess, just be careful not to overheat it!

Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control of saltiness. Vegetable broth is a handy alternative if you want a lighter flavor.

How Do I Make Sure the Beef and Noodles Are Full of Flavor?

Flavor comes from proper seasoning and cooking techniques. Start by sautéing the onion and garlic until they’re both soft—this builds a tasty base.

• Always season your meat. Salt and pepper ground beef while cooking to enhance the flavor.
• When adding flour, stir it in and let it cook briefly to remove the raw taste before adding broth.
• When adding sour cream, do this off the heat to ensure it stays creamy and doesn’t curdle!

Adjust spices to your preference. Enjoy mixing everything together to ensure the noodles soak up that delicious sauce!

Quick and Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Beef and Noodles:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or thinly sliced beef (such as sirloin or flank steak)
• 8 oz (225g) egg noodles or wide pasta noodles
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes! It includes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. When done, drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside for later.

2. Sauté the Aromatics:

While the noodles are cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic and stir it around for about 30 seconds until you can smell its delicious aroma.

3. Cook the Beef:

Now it’s time to add the ground beef or sliced beef to the skillet. Cook it while breaking the ground beef apart with a spoon or spatula, or quickly stir the sliced beef. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to season the meat with salt and pepper while cooking.

4. Make the Sauce:

Once the beef is cooked, sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the mixture and stir it well. Let it cook for about a minute to eliminate that raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth, mixing well until the sauce becomes smooth and combined. If you want to add extra flavor, stir in the Worcestershire sauce now.

5. Finish the Dish:

Reduce the heat to low and gently stir in the sour cream. Mix until the sauce is creamy and heated through. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

6. Combine Everything:

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are coated in that creamy beef sauce. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

7. Serve and Garnish:

When you’re ready to serve, scoop the beef and noodles onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your warm and comforting meal!

This quick and easy beef and noodles recipe is not only comforting but also family-friendly, making it a great choice for busy weeknights!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Different Types of Meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even diced pork. If you’re using steak, make sure to slice it thinly for quick cooking and tenderness.

What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?

If you’re looking for a substitute, Greek yogurt works wonderfully and offers a similar tang. Just stir it in off the heat to avoid curdling. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream alternative.

How Should I Store Leftovers?

Leftover beef and noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?

Definitely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas can enhance the nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic for best results, adjusting cooking time as needed.