Ground Beef and Noodles is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. This dish combines tender ground beef with perfectly cooked noodles, all enveloped in a rich, savory sauce that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s not only delicious but also simple to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The blend of flavors and textures in this dish will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This ground beef and noodles recipe is a hit for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of spices and sauces that elevate the taste of the humble ingredients. It’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for families or individuals with tight schedules. You can have a hearty meal on the table in under 30 minutes! Plus, it fits well into a variety of diets, providing a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables, ensuring you won’t feel sluggish after enjoying it.
Tips and Tricks
- Browning the Beef: Make sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly for added flavor. Don’t rush this step; let it caramelize a bit for that rich taste.
- Noodle Cooking: Cook the noodles al dente as they will continue to cook when combined with the sauce. This will prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for an extra depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Add-ins: Consider adding chopped bell peppers, peas, or carrots for a pop of color and nutrition.
Make Ahead Tips
For busy cooks, this recipe can be partially prepared in advance. Cook the ground beef and sauce up to two days ahead and store it in the fridge. You can also cook the noodles and toss them in a bit of oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat the beef mixture and combine it with the noodles. This dish will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Ground Beef and Noodles: Stir in some shredded cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy twist.
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Noodles: Substitute regular noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free options to cater to dietary preferences.
How to Serve
Serve this dish hot right from the pot for a comforting meal. Consider garnishing with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a pop of color. Pair it with a simple side salad or a warm baguette to soak up any extra sauce.
Pairing Suggestions
A light-bodied red wine, such as a Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully with this dish. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon or iced tea compliments the flavors well. As for sides, garlic bread or steamed vegetables would be delightful, and for dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream would complete the meal nicely.
How to Store
To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, this dish freezes well; simply place it in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or pot for cooking the beef and sauce
- A pot for boiling the noodles
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A measuring cup and spoons for accurate ingredient measurement
Dietary Adaptations
- Vegan: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Dairy-Free: Omit any cheese and ensure your sauces are dairy-free.
- Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, but always check your sauce labels to avoid hidden allergens.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, consider adding fresh vegetables like zucchini or spinach. In the fall and winter, incorporate hearty vegetables like butternut squash or kale for added nutrition and flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey works well but may result in a lighter flavor.
- What’s a good substitute for egg noodles? You can use any pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli.
- How do I make this dish spicier? Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the sauce mixture while cooking.
How To Make ground beef and noodles recipe
Ground Beef and Noodles
Ground Beef and Noodles is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add to the beef mixture.
- Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 447Total Fat 25gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 117mgSodium 490mgCarbohydrates 20gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 35g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This ground beef and noodles recipe is a fantastic meal option that brings together simplicity, flavor, and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for a family or just for yourself, this dish is sure to satisfy. With easy preparation and the potential for delicious variations, it’s a recipe worth adding to your collection. Enjoy the warmth and joy that comes from sharing a meal made with love!
