Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles
Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles
Looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles is a delightful dish that blends tender beef, creamy sauce, and cheesy egg noodles seamlessly. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe will leave everyone at the dinner table satisfied.
Why Make This Recipe
There are numerous reasons to try this recipe! First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare; just throw your ingredients into the crockpot and let it work its magic. The result is a flavorful, hearty meal that takes less than 10 minutes of prep time. Second, the combination of beef, cheese, and noodles offers a comforting taste that warms the soul. You can also customize it with optional ingredients like ranch seasoning and sour cream for an added flavor boost!
How to Make Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or stew beef, diced)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 can (10.5 oz) beef broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 3 cups egg noodles (uncooked)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
Directions
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Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Drain excess grease.
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Combine Ingredients: In your crockpot, add the browned beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, ranch seasoning (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine everything well.
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Add Noodles: Place the uncooked egg noodles on top of the mixture in the crockpot. Do not stir; this allows the noodles to absorb the flavors as they cook.
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Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or on high for about 3 hours. The noodles should be tender, and the liquid should mostly be absorbed.
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Add Cheese and Sour Cream: If you’re adding sour cream, stir it into the mixture once the cheese has melted for a creamier texture. Mix in the shredded cheese and let it cook for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Pair it with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s a comforting dish that everyone will love!
How to Store Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles
To store leftovers, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. You can refrigerate the dish for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the microwave or stovetop before serving.
Tips to Make Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles
- Quick Prep: Use pre-chopped onions or frozen diced beef to save time.
- Add Vegetables: You can add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added nutrition.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Variations
- Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter dish.
- Cheese Variety: Try different cheese blends for a unique twist; pepper jack can add a bit of heat.
- Vegetarian Version: Use black beans or lentils and vegetable broth to make a vegetarian-friendly dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen beef?
Yes, you can use frozen beef! Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so to ensure that it cooks through fully.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep all the ingredients and store them in the fridge a day in advance. Just throw everything in the crockpot when you’re ready to cook.
3. What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness.
With this Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles recipe, you will create a satisfying meal that your family will request again and again. Enjoy the savory flavors in every single bite!
Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles
Ingredients
Beef and Base Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or stew beef, diced)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup 10.5 oz
- 1 can beef broth 10.5 oz
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix optional, for extra flavor
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
Noodles and Cheese
- 3 cups egg noodles uncooked
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella
- 1/2 cup sour cream optional, for extra creaminess
Instructions
Preparation
- In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Drain excess grease.
- In your crockpot, add the browned beef mixture, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, ranch seasoning (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine everything well.
Cooking
- Place the uncooked egg noodles on top of the mixture in the crockpot. Do not stir; this allows the noodles to absorb the flavors as they cook.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or on high for about 3 hours. The noodles should be tender, and the liquid should mostly be absorbed.
- If you’re adding sour cream, stir it into the mixture once the cheese has melted for a creamier texture. Mix in the shredded cheese and let it cook for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
