Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been staple in my family for years. We’re talking about French Onion Beef and Noodles, a dish that’s like warm hugging on cold days. If you love the savory-sweetness of French Onion soup and the comforting heartiness of beef, you will love this recipe. If you like stroganoff, then you’re absolutely going to adore this! Is it surprisingly easy to throw together, and the flavor? Is it true that the aroma alone will have everyone racing to the kitchen? What’s your go-to meal for the week? I think yours will too!
What is French onion beef and noodle?
Think of it as the ultimate comfort food mashup. What is essentially a beef and noodle dish, but elevated with the incredible flavors of French onion? We’re talking tender beef simmered in a rich, savory broth infused with caramelized onions, garlic, and Black Pepper. What is a splash of wine? What are some of the best egg noodles you have ever had? What is the “French Onion” part of the recipe? What is the classic soup? Is there a sweetness to this tea that you just can’t get anywhere else? What is comfort food?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? This recipe is a total winner for so many reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is out of this world. The caramelized onions create this incredible sweet and savory depth that’s just irresistible. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the noodles soak up all that delicious broth. It’s a symphony of flavors in every single bite!
But beyond the taste, what I love most about this is how incredibly easy it is to make. Seriously, don’t let the “French Onion” part scare you off. This is not a complicated dish. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. Plus, it’s surprisingly budget-friendly. You can use a relatively inexpensive cut of beef and still achieve amazing results.
And let’s not forget about the versatility! You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Add different vegetables, use a different type of noodle, or even stir in some Cream Cheese at the end for extra richness. The possibilities are endless! I’ve made it with different kinds of beef and even tried adding mushrooms once – total success! If you’re a fan of dishes like beef stroganoff or even a good old pot roast, you’re absolutely going to fall in love with this one. Trust me; it’s a family favorite for a reason. This dish disappeared in minutes the first time I made it!
How do I make French onion beef and noodle?
Quick Overview
How do I make French Onion Beef and Noodles? What is the flavor of onions? We start by caramelizing them. First, we brown the beef and simmer it in a flavorful broth until it’s fall-apart tender. When the noodles are cooked, we add them to the pan and continue to cook until they’re completely done. The whole process takes about an hour, but most of that time is hands-off simmering, so you can take a few minutes. What are some of the things you can do while cooking? What is a simple yet delicious dish?
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil. 1 tablespoon of salt.
- 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced (yellow onions are key here for that classic sweetness)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced. 1 clove onion
- 1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes (chuck roast works great too)
- What is the best beef broth to drink?
- I use 1 cup dry red wine (optional, but adds a nice depth of flavor. I like to use an apple cider vinegar).
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme. 1 t
- 1/2 teaspoon salt. 1 teaspoon pepper.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. 1 teaspoon sage.
- 1 pound egg noodles is about 1 cup.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish.
Optional additions:
- Bay leaf
- Splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for extra tang.
- Dollop of sour cream before serving.
How do I follow step
Step 1: Caramelize the Onions
In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Set aside. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are tender. Stir occasionally. Deep golden brown and caramelized. This step is crucial for developing that signature French onion flavor, so don’t rush it! Low and slow is the key here. I always add a pinch of sugar during the last few minutes to really help them along. Be patient – it’s worth it!
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Brown the Beef
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, add the Beef Stew meat and cook until browned on all sides. Don’t overcrowd the pot – you may need to do this in batches to ensure proper browning. Browning beef adds another layer of flavor, so don’t skip this step!
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), and then stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fall-apart tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
Step 4: Cook the Noodles
Stir in the egg noodles and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, or until thickened. When the noodles are tender, drain and serve. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and let stand for a few minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. French Onion Beef and Noodles are best served in a bowl. Top with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
6. Optional additions
If you feel adventurous, consider adding a bay leaf during the simmering process and removing it before serving. A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end can also add a lovely tang. I’ve even been known to dollop a bit of sour cream on top before serving – decadent, but oh-so-good!
What should I serve it with?
This French Onion Beef and Noodles is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own, but if you’re looking to round it out, here are a few serving suggestions:
For a simple side: A crusty baguette or some Garlic Bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a nice contrast to the richness of the dish.
For a Heartier Meal: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. They’ll complement the flavors of the beef and noodles perfectly.
For a Fancy Dinner:What’s a good pairing for red wine? ), and serve with a cheese board featuring Gruyere, Emmental, and other French cheeses.
In my family, we often serve this with a simple side salad and some warm crusty bread. It’s the perfect way to soak up all that delicious sauce! And sometimes, just sometimes, I’ll add a little grated Gruyere on top before serving for an extra touch of French Onion flair!
How do I cook French Onion Beef and Noodles?
How do I take my French Onion Beef and Noodles to the next level? What are some of the best tips and tricks I have learned over the years?
How do you caramelize onions?Do not rush the caramelization process! It’s the key to the flavor of this dish. Use low heat and stir frequently to prevent burning. If the onions stick to the bottom of the pot, add a tablespoon or two of water to deglaze.
Use Good Quality Beef Broth: The flavor of the beef broth will have a big impact on the final dish, so use a good quality broth. Homemade is always best, but if you’re using store-bought, look for a low-sodium option so you can control the saltiness.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Nobody likes mushy noodles! Cook the noodles according to package directions, but check them a minute or two before the recommended time to make sure they’re not overcooked. They should be al dente – firm to the bite.
Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or thyme, depending on your preferences.
Add a Touch of Acidity: A splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors and add a nice touch of acidity. This is especially helpful if the dish tastes a little too rich or heavy.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have egg noodles on hand, feel free to use a different type of pasta. Rotini, penne, or even wide ribbon pasta will work just fine. You could also try using sweet onions instead of yellow onions, though the flavor will be slightly different. I’ve even substituted Vegetable Broth for beef broth in a pinch, and it still turned out delicious! It is also possible to make this into a vegetarian dish with a meat substitute. The most important point is to ensure the flavors from the onion are there.
I learned the hard way that rushing the caramelization process never pays off. Burnt onions are NOT what you want! And trust me, adding a little bit of acid at the end really does make a difference. It just brightens up the whole dish and balances the flavors perfectly!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This French Onion Beef and Noodles is even better the next day, so don’t be afraid to make a big batch! Here’s how to store and reheat it:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend leaving it out for more than 2 hours at room temperature.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the leftover beef and noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a little broth or water when reheating.
Freezer Instructions: You can also freeze this dish for longer storage. Transfer the cooled beef and noodles to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the beef and noodles in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to prevent splattering.
One important tip: If you’re planning to freeze this dish, I recommend cooking the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when reheated. I usually let them cool down completely before placing them in the freezer to minimize freezer burn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my family’s beloved recipe for French Onion Beef and Noodles! It’s a dish that’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion, from a cozy weeknight dinner to a special gathering with friends and family. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other comforting pasta dishes, like my Creamy Tomato Pasta or my classic Lasagna.
I’m so excited for you to try this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear what you think! Let me know in the comments below if you make it, and be sure to share your own variations and tips. Happy cooking!
French Onion Beef and Noodles
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Beef stew meat
- 3 cups Yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz Egg noodles
- 4 cups Beef broth
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onions and cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes.
- Stir in beef broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until beef is tender.
- Add egg noodles and cook according to package directions.
- Serve hot.
