Go Back

Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles

A comforting and hearty meal made effortlessly in a slow cooker, combining tender beef and silky noodles in a creamy sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2.5 to 3 pounds chuck roast, trimmed of thick fat Chuck roast is preferred for a tender result.
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups beef broth, plus more if needed
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • 10 to 12 ounces egg noodles, dry or frozen Adjust cooking time based on noodle type.
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water, optional for thickening Whisk together and add in the final cooking time.
  • 2 tablespoons butter or a splash of heavy cream, optional for extra richness
  • Fresh parsley for serving

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season and brown the beef. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Sear in a skillet over medium-high heat with a bit of oil until brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  2. Load the slow cooker. Add sliced onion, garlic, broth, soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce, thyme or Italian seasoning, and bay leaf. Nestle the beef into the liquid.
Cooking
  1. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is fork-tender and shreds easily.
  2. Remove the beef, discard the bay leaf, and shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the slow cooker.
  3. Stir in egg noodles. If using dry noodles, they usually need 20-30 minutes on high. If using frozen noodles, they may need 35-45 minutes. Stir once or twice and add a splash of broth if needed.
  4. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and let it simmer on high for 10-15 minutes until the sauce is glossy and slightly thick.
  5. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

For extra creaminess, stir in cream cheese or heavy cream. Flavor can be enhanced with mustard, red wine, or tomato paste. Check noodle doneness to prevent overcooking.