Welcome to our comforting meals section! Today, we’re sharing a delicious and hearty recipe for French Onion Beef and Noodles. This dish combines tender beef stew meat, flavorful French onion soup, and creamy egg noodles, making it a perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound beef stew meat
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) French onion soup
- 3 cups beef broth
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup French fried onions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Heat Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season Beef: Season the beef stew meat with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brown Beef: Add the seasoned beef to the skillet and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
- Cook Noodles: In a large pot, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add Soup and Broth: In the same skillet or Dutch oven used for browning the beef, add the French onion soup and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Return Beef: Return the browned beef to the skillet and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the beef is tender and cooked through.
Step 4: Finish the Dish
- Add Noodles: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Stir in Sour Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream until well blended.
- Add Parmesan: Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the mixture and stir until melted and combined.
Step 5: Serve
- Top with French Fried Onions: Just before serving, sprinkle the French fried onions over the top of the dish.
- Serve Hot: Serve the French onion beef and noodles hot. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Beef: For extra flavor, you can marinate the beef stew meat in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and onion powder for a few hours before cooking.
- Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional for this dish, but you can substitute with other types of pasta if desired.
- French Fried Onions: Add the French fried onions just before serving to keep them crispy.
Variations
Cheesy French Onion Beef and Noodles
Add 1 cup of shredded Gruyère or Swiss cheese along with the Parmesan for a cheesy twist.
Spicy French Onion Beef and Noodles
Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the skillet for a spicy kick.
Vegetable French Onion Beef and Noodles
Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms or bell peppers to the skillet when adding the French onion soup and beef broth for extra vegetables.
Herb French Onion Beef and Noodles
Stir in 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped thyme or rosemary for an herbaceous note.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and noodle mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, and add the French fried onions just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the beef and noodle mixture. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving. Add the French fried onions just before serving.
What can I serve with French Onion Beef and Noodles?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
How can I make the dish more flavorful?
For extra depth of flavor, you can deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine before adding the French onion soup and beef broth. Additionally, adding a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme while simmering the beef can enhance the overall taste.
French Onion Beef and Noodles is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender beef, creamy noodles, and a delicious onion flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious meal with your loved ones!
