Crockpot Mississippi Beef and Noodles

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Dive into a world of savory delights with our Crockpot Mississippi Beef and Noodles recipe. This slow-cooked masterpiece combines tender beef chuck roast with the irresistible flavors of ranch, au jus, and tangy pepperoncini. Served over a bed of egg noodles and garnished with fresh parsley, it’s a comforting meal that’s sure to please the whole family.

Ingredients:

  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 packet au jus gravy mix
  • 4 whole pepperoncini
  • 4 cups low sodium beef broth
  • ¼ cup juice from jar of pepperoncini
  • 16 ounces dried egg noodles
  • ¼ cup butter
  • Fresh minced parsley for garnish

Directions:

  1. Sear the Beef: Begin by heating a large skillet over high heat. Add olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until beautifully browned.
  2. Prepare the Crockpot: Transfer the seared roast to a 6-quart crockpot. Sprinkle ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix over the roast. Place whole pepperoncini on top, followed by beef broth and pepperoncini juice.
  3. Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 5 hours, allowing the beef to become tender and infused with the flavorful broth.
  4. Shred the Beef: Once cooked, remove the beef from the crockpot and shred it using forks. Return the shredded beef to the broth in the crockpot.
  5. Add Noodles and Butter: Incorporate the dried egg noodles into the crockpot and stir to combine with the beef and broth. Add pats of butter on top for added richness.
  6. Finish Cooking: Cover the crockpot again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender. Check after 20 minutes to ensure they’re cooked to your desired texture.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Stir the noodles and beef together, then serve piping hot. Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh minced parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

  • Calories: 530
  • Total Fat: 23g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Cholesterol: 155mg
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 34g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 43g

Serving and Storage Tips:

  1. Serve with a Side: Enhance the meal by serving Crockpot Mississippi Beef and Noodles with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, to add freshness and balance to the dish.
  2. Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Elevate the presentation and flavor by garnishing each serving with additional fresh herbs like thyme or chives, adding a pop of color and an extra layer of aroma.
  3. Accompany with Bread: Serve crusty bread or dinner rolls on the side to sop up the delicious juices and broth from the beef and noodles, making every bite even more satisfying.
  4. Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure that the beef and noodles are completely cooled before transferring them to the container.
  5. Reheat with Care: When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to the dish to prevent it from drying out. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, stirring occasionally to distribute heat evenly.
  6. Freeze for Later: To extend the shelf life, freeze individual portions of the beef and noodles in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  7. Repurpose Leftovers: Transform leftover Crockpot Mississippi Beef and Noodles into new dishes by using them as filling for tacos, quesadillas, or sandwiches. The flavorful beef and noodles can also be added to soups or salads for a quick and convenient meal.
  8. Adjust Seasoning when Reheating: Taste the dish when reheating and adjust the seasoning, if necessary, by adding more salt, pepper, or additional ranch seasoning mix to suit your preference.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can make the most out of your Crockpot Mississippi Beef and Noodles, ensuring that every meal is as delicious and enjoyable as the first serving.

Variations:

  1. Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the crockpot along with the other ingredients. The spicy kick will add an extra dimension to the dish.
  2. Italian Twist: Give the recipe an Italian flair by substituting ranch seasoning with Italian seasoning and au jus gravy mix with marinara sauce. Add diced tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs for a rich, tomato-based flavor profile.
  3. Mushroom Medley: Enhance the dish with earthy flavors by adding sliced mushrooms to the crockpot along with the beef and other ingredients. Mushrooms add depth and texture to the dish, making it even more satisfying.
  4. Asian Fusion: Create an Asian-inspired version by replacing ranch seasoning and au jus gravy mix with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for a colorful and nutritious twist.
  5. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian alternative, substitute beef chuck roast with meatless beef strips or extra-firm tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini for a hearty and flavorful dish.
  6. Cheesy Delight: Add a cheesy touch by stirring in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. The melted cheese will add richness and creaminess to the dish.
  7. Tex-Mex Fusion: Infuse Tex-Mex flavors by adding taco seasoning, canned diced tomatoes with green chilies, and black beans to the crockpot. Serve the beef and noodles with toppings such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, avocado, and sour cream for a customizable meal.
  8. Lemon Herb Variation: Brighten up the dish with lemon zest and fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the beef and noodles before serving for a refreshing and aromatic twist.
  9. Coconut Curry Infusion: Create a fusion of flavors by adding coconut milk, curry powder, and a splash of lime juice to the crockpot. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve over steamed rice for a comforting and aromatic dish.
  10. Buffalo Ranch Fusion: For a bold and tangy twist, substitute ranch seasoning mix with buffalo wing sauce and au jus gravy mix with beef broth. Serve the beef and noodles topped with crumbled blue cheese and chopped green onions for a flavor-packed meal.

Experiment with these variations to tailor Crockpot Mississippi Beef and Noodles to your taste preferences and dietary requirements, ensuring each meal is a unique and satisfying experience.

FAQs :

  1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes, you can use other cuts such as beef stew meat or beef round roast. However, keep in mind that different cuts may require adjustments in cooking time for optimal tenderness.
  2. Is it necessary to sear the beef before placing it in the crockpot? Searing the beef adds flavor by caramelizing the surface, but it’s not strictly necessary. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but you may notice a slight difference in flavor.
  3. Can I use fresh peppers instead of pepperoncini? Yes, you can substitute fresh banana peppers or mild green chilies for pepperoncini if desired. Adjust the quantity to suit your taste preferences.
  4. Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can use gluten-free ranch seasoning mix and au jus gravy mix, or make your own gluten-free versions. Additionally, ensure the beef broth and egg noodles are certified gluten-free.
  5. What can I use if I don’t have a crockpot? If you don’t have a crockpot, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop or oven cooking. Use a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid and adjust cooking times accordingly.
  6. Can I add vegetables to this dish? Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as carrots, celery, potatoes, or bell peppers to the crockpot along with the beef for a complete meal.

With its effortless preparation and mouthwatering flavors, our Crockpot Mississippi Beef and Noodles recipe is a must-have for any comfort food enthusiast. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this hearty dish is sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites. Try it today and experience the joy of slow-cooked comfort at its finest.