Crockpot Beef and Noodles

There’s something incredibly nostalgic about walking into a home and being greeted by the rich aroma of slow-cooked beef, simmering away with herbs and spices, just waiting to be paired with buttery noodles. This Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe brings all those comforting feelings to the table — the kind that wraps you up like a warm blanket on a chilly day.

This dish has roots in hearty Midwestern cooking, the kind passed down through generations, where simple ingredients were slowly transformed into stick-to-your-ribs meals. My grandma used to make something similar every Sunday — a tradition I now carry on during fall and winter weekends. There was always a big pot on the counter, steaming gently, while everyone gathered in the kitchen waiting for the first serving. It’s not just a meal, it’s a memory.

Whether you’re looking to recreate a bit of that old-fashioned charm or just need a fuss-free, flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself, this Crockpot Beef and Noodles recipe is a keeper. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a freezer-filler, and best of all — it’s wonderfully simple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Set-it-and-forget-it simplicity – Just toss everything in the crockpot and go about your day.
• Rich, savory flavor – Slow cooking lets the beef become incredibly tender and soak up every ounce of flavor.
• Perfect for leftovers – It reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
• Family-friendly – Even picky eaters usually dive right into this dish.
• Cozy and hearty – It’s the definition of comfort food, ideal for chilly evenings or lazy Sundays.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

• 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 package (12 oz) egg noodles
• 2 tbsp butter

HOW TO MAKE CROCKPOT BEEF AND NOODLES:

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Sear the beef (optional but recommended)
This step isn’t required, but if you have the time, browning the beef cubes in a hot skillet with a little oil can deepen the flavor. It gives the meat a beautiful caramelized edge that adds richness to the final dish.

Step 2: Layer the goodness
Place your beef in the bottom of the crockpot. Then pour in the cream of mushroom soup, French onion soup, and beef broth. Add in your garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and thyme. Give everything a gentle stir so it’s well combined.

Step 3: Let the crockpot do the work
Cover the crockpot and cook on Low for 7–8 hours, or on High for 4–5 hours, until the beef is melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 4: Add the noodles
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the egg noodles and add the butter. Cover again and continue cooking until the noodles are soft and have soaked up some of the delicious broth — usually around 25–30 minutes.

Step 5: Serve and savor
Once the noodles are fully cooked, give everything a final stir and taste for seasoning. Dish it up into big bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or a simple side salad.

HELPFUL TIPS:

• Use egg noodles for that classic texture, but if you’re out, wide noodles or even rotini can work in a pinch.
• If it gets too thick after adding the noodles, just stir in a little extra broth to loosen things up.
• Searing the beef first isn’t required but highly recommended for extra flavor depth.
• Don’t overcook the noodles – they only need 25–30 minutes at the end, so be sure to time it right.

DETAILS:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 7–8 hours (on Low) or 4–5 hours (on High)
• Total Time: About 8 hours
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Beef-based

NOTES:

• You can prep everything the night before and store the crockpot insert in the fridge, then just pop it into the base in the morning and start cooking.
• Want it creamier? Stir in a splash of milk or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION: (Approximate per serving)

Calories: 430
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 880mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! Chuck roast or bottom round roast works great. Just cut it into cubes before adding to the crockpot.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dish stores and reheats really well. It’s perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.

Can I use frozen beef?
You can, but for food safety and texture, it’s best to thaw it before placing in the slow cooker.

What can I serve with this?
Crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or even a light salad make wonderful sides.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth to loosen it up.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a little broth if needed to prevent it from drying out.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cozy slow-cooked meals:

• Comforting and Creamy Beef Stroganoff – A Classic Dish Made Easy
• Classic Beef Stew
• Crockpot Beef Tips and Noodles
• Crockpot Pepper Steak: A Cozy Comfort Meal

Conclusion

Crockpot Beef and Noodles is one of those rare dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or just in need of some soul-soothing comfort food, this recipe delivers every time. It’s easy, it’s hearty, and it brings people together — just like grandma used to make.

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