Indulge in a culinary embrace with our delectable Beef and Noodles recipe, a symphony of tender beef, savory mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. This comforting dish promises to warm both body and soul, making it ideal for a family gathering or a satisfying weeknight treat. Let’s dive into this simple yet soul-satisfying recipe!
Ingredients :
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 ¼ lbs. of beef steak, bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 16 ounces of white button mushrooms, halved
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon of marjoram
- ½ teaspoon of dried thyme leaves
- 8 ounces of egg noodles
- 2 ½ cups of low-sodium beef broth
- 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce
- 2 ½ tablespoons of cornstarch
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of freshly chopped parsley
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a sturdy skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the beef pieces on both sides until they are cooked through. Once done, set the beef aside, covering it to preserve its warmth.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add in the finely chopped onions and halved mushrooms, allowing them to cook until the onions turn soft and the mushrooms achieve a golden brown hue, approximately 7-8 minutes. Lower the heat and incorporate the minced garlic, marjoram, and thyme, stirring continuously for an additional minute. Once done, plate the mushroom mixture and cover to retain its warmth.
- While the mushroom mixture is resting, cook the egg noodles according to the instructions on the package. Once cooked, drain them thoroughly.
- Return the skillet to the stove and pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing it to a gentle boil while scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any flavorful browned bits. In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch with 1/4 cup of cold water, then whisk the mixture into the skillet. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens, whisking frequently.
- Reintroduce the cooked beef and mushroom mixture into the skillet, warming them together for an additional 2-3 minutes. Season the dish with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Serve the delightful beef and mushroom concoction over the cooked egg noodles, garnishing it with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Perfect Portions: When serving Beef and Noodles, consider pairing it with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp garden salad for a well-rounded meal. The savory flavors of the dish complement fresh greens beautifully.
- Garnish Gracefully: Elevate the presentation of your Beef and Noodles by sprinkling some additional freshly chopped parsley on top just before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also enhances the dish’s aroma and flavor.
- Make Ahead Magic: Need a meal prep solution? You can prepare the Beef and Noodles ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.
- Freeze for Future Feasts: Beef and Noodles also freeze well, making it a convenient option for busy days. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
- Revitalize Leftovers: Have leftovers from your Beef and Noodles feast? Don’t let them go to waste! Repurpose them into tasty wraps, sandwiches, or even stir-fries for a delicious twist on classic flavors.
- Creative Customizations: Feel free to customize your Beef and Noodles recipe according to your taste preferences. Add in your favorite vegetables or swap out the beef for chicken or tofu for a delightful variation. The possibilities are endless!
Variations:
- Vegetarian Twist: For a meat-free version, substitute the beef with hearty mushrooms, such as portobello or cremini, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or peas for added texture and flavor.
- Creamy Upgrade: Transform your Beef and Noodles into a creamy delight by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking. This adds richness and a luxurious mouthfeel to the dish.
- Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat to your Beef and Noodles by incorporating diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the sauce. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of spiciness.
- Asian Fusion: Give your dish an Asian-inspired twist by substituting soy sauce for Worcestershire sauce and adding ginger, garlic, and a splash of sesame oil to the sauce. Serve the Beef and Noodles with a side of steamed bok choy or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
- Cheesy Delight: Take your Beef and Noodles to the next level by melting a generous amount of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyère, into the sauce. The gooey cheese adds a decadent touch and makes the dish even more indulgent.
- Tex-Mex Flavors: Infuse your Beef and Noodles with Tex-Mex flair by seasoning the beef with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika. Serve the dish with toppings like diced avocado, salsa, sour cream, and shredded cheese for a Southwestern-inspired feast.
- Fresh Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs to enhance the flavor profile of your Beef and Noodles. Try adding fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for a fragrant and aromatic twist.
FAQs :
- Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes, you can use various cuts such as sirloin, flank steak, or even stew meat. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut’s tenderness.
- How do I know when the beef is cooked through? The beef should be browned on the outside and no longer pink on the inside. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
- Can I substitute the egg noodles with a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to swap the egg noodles for your favorite pasta variety, such as fettuccine, penne, or even rice noodles, depending on your preference.
- What if I don’t have marjoram or thyme? If you don’t have these herbs on hand, you can substitute them with dried oregano, basil, or Italian seasoning for a similar flavor profile.
- Is it necessary to use low-sodium beef broth? While low-sodium beef broth is recommended for better control over the dish’s saltiness, you can use regular beef broth and adjust the added salt accordingly to suit your taste preferences.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free egg noodles or substitute with rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. Additionally, ensure that the Worcestershire sauce and cornstarch used are certified gluten-free.
- How can I make this dish more kid-friendly? To make it more appealing to kids, you can cut the beef into smaller bite-size pieces, incorporate their favorite vegetables into the dish, and adjust the seasoning to milder flavors.
- Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative such as olive oil or vegan butter to make the dish dairy-free without compromising on flavor.
- Can I prepare this dish in advance for a dinner party? Absolutely! You can prepare the components of the dish ahead of time and assemble just before serving. Store the cooked beef, mushroom mixture, and sauce separately in the refrigerator, then reheat and combine when ready to serve.
With just a few simple steps, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to the heartwarming goodness of our Beef and Noodles recipe. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a comforting weeknight meal, this dish is sure to delight your senses and leave you craving more. So, gather your ingredients and embark on a culinary journey filled with warmth, flavor, and satisfaction. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting delight!