Why Make This Recipe
One-Pan Beef & Noodles is a simple and comforting dish that brings together tender beef, hearty noodles, and flavorful broth all in one pot. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without a lot of cleanup. It’s filling, rich in flavor, and sure to please the whole family. Plus, using only one pan means less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your food.
How to Make One-Pan Beef & Noodles
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (I use 85/15)
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1-2 tbsp flour
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Directions
-
Brown the beef: In a large pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. Once it is no longer pink, drain any excess fat.
-
Add aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
-
Build the base: Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine. This will help thicken the sauce later.
-
Add liquid and noodles: Pour in the beef broth and milk. Stir well to combine, then add the egg noodles. Bring to a gentle boil.
-
Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and cover. Allow the noodles to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through, stirring occasionally.
-
Finish the sauce: Once the noodles are tender, stir in the sour cream, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), as well as salt and pepper to taste. Allow everything to cook together for another few minutes until heated through.
-
Rest briefly before serving: Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help the sauce thicken slightly before serving.
How to Serve One-Pan Beef & Noodles
Serve this dish warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs well with a side of vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese on top for extra flavor.
How to Store One-Pan Beef & Noodles
Allow the dish to cool completely before storing. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make One-Pan Beef & Noodles
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as peas or carrots, for added nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes while cooking.
- For a creamier texture, use half-and-half instead of milk.
Variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by substituting ground turkey or chicken for beef. For a vegetarian option, use a plant-based ground meat alternative and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta types like spaghetti or fettuccine. Adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free noodles and substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
One-Pan Beef & Noodles
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef (85/15)
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2.5 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1-2 tablespoons flour
- 0.5 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth and milk. Stir well, then add the egg noodles and bring to a gentle boil.
Cooking
- Reduce the heat to low and cover. Allow the noodles to simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cooked through.
- Once the noodles are tender, stir in the sour cream, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, thyme (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Cook together for another few minutes until heated through.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to help the sauce thicken slightly before serving.