This 30-minute beef and noodles recipe is perfect for busy weeknights! It’s made with tender beef, soft noodles, and a tasty sauce that brings everything together.
You can have a delicious meal on the table in no time! I love making this when I need something quick, and my family always wants seconds. Who can blame them? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! I love ground beef for its flavor and quick cooking time. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use ground turkey or chicken instead. Both will work great!
Egg Noodles: These noodles are traditional, but you can use any pasta you have on hand, like fettuccine or even whole wheat for a healthier twist! Gluten-free pasta also works if needed.
Beef Broth: This adds depth to the dish, but you can substitute vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter flavor or are looking to keep it vegetarian.
Milk/Cream: For creaminess, milk is great, but you can swap it with plant-based options like almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics boost flavor and can be swapped for shallots or leeks if you’re feeling fancy, or even garlic powder if you’re in a pinch.
How Do I Get the Beef to Cook Perfectly?
One challenge can be cooking your beef just right! Here are some tips to make it tender and flavorful:
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this keeps the heat up and helps brown the meat.
- Use medium-high heat and break the meat up as it cooks, ensuring even browning.
- Season early while cooking for better flavor absorption.
By following these steps, your beef will turn out juicy and delicious every time! Enjoy your meal!
Quick and Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or thinly sliced beef strips
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles or wide pasta noodles
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp tomato paste or ketchup (optional for a mild tang)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or parsley (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Time Needed
This recipe is quick and takes about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend 10-15 minutes preparing and cooking, making it a perfect choice for busy nights. You can have dinner on the table in no time! 🕒
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually around 7-10 minutes). When done, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
While the noodles are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and the onions are translucent.
3. Cook the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep cooking for about 5-7 minutes or until the beef is browned and no longer pink. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning if you’re using it for extra flavor.
4. Make the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste or ketchup and Worcestershire sauce, letting them mix in well with the beef. Next, pour in the beef broth and milk, stirring everything together. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Combine Noodles and Sauce
Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Add the drained noodles to your skillet with the beef sauce. Toss everything together gently until the noodles are evenly coated with the delicious sauce.
6. Taste and Serve
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—you can add more salt or pepper according to your preference. Serve the beef and noodles hot, and don’t forget to top it with some grated Parmesan cheese if you like!
Enjoy your quick and comforting beef and noodles dish with family or friends! It’s a surefire hit! 🍽️
FAQ for Quick and Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles
Can I Use Frozen Beef in This Recipe?
Yes! You can use frozen beef, but make sure it’s completely thawed before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge it in cold water for a quicker option. Once thawed, you can proceed with the recipe as usual.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg Noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles, you can easily substitute them with other types of pasta like fettuccine, wide ramen noodles, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the dish on the stove over low heat, or use the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the milk or cream with a plant-based alternative like almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk. Just ensure the substitute you choose is unsweetened to maintain the savory flavor of the dish!