As I stirred the simmering pot, the aroma of tender beef and savory broth filled my kitchen, instantly evoking cozy memories of family dinners past. Today, I'm excited to share my go-to recipe for Beef Tips and Noodles, a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Not only does this recipe come together in just 55 minutes, but it also delivers a hearty meal that’s bound to impress your loved ones without the fuss of takeout. With luscious beef coated in a rich gravy served over warm egg noodles, it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser that will make your dining table feel special. Are you ready to elevate your weeknight meals? Let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!
Why is Beef Tips and Noodles a Must-Try?
Comforting, this dish brings home-cooked nostalgia to your table with every bite. Quick preparation means you can whip it up in just 55 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Hearty flavors of tender beef and rich gravy pair beautifully with egg noodles, delivering satisfaction in every forkful. Versatile dining allows it to shine at family meals or cozy gatherings—it's sure to please everyone! If you’re looking for more easy, comforting meals, check out my Creamy Chicken and Rice recipe for another winning dish.
Beef Tips and Noodles Ingredients
• Ready to create a comforting dish?
For the Beef
- Butter – enriches the dish with a creamy texture and deep flavor.
- Medium onion – adds sweetness and savory depth to the savory broth.
- Beef – use high-quality cuts like chuck for tender bites that melt in your mouth.
For the Broth and Seasoning
- Beef broth – forms the flavorful base of this savory sauce; homemade or store-bought works well!
- Bay leaf – infuses a hint of earthiness as the dish simmers.
- Thyme – brings warmth and aromatic richness for a comforting finish.
- Salt – essential for enhancing the beef's natural flavors.
- Pepper – adds a touch of spice and balance to the dish.
For Thickening
- Cornstarch – helps to thicken the gravy to a luscious consistency.
- Cold water – used to create a slurry that ensures a smooth gravy without lumps.
For the Noodles
- Egg noodles – serve as the perfect vehicle for soaking up that delicious gravy.
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley – adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness—optional, but delightful!
Take your taste buds on a journey with these Beef Tips and Noodles!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Beef Tips and Noodles
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced medium onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion turns soft and translucent. The sizzling sound will signal that the base flavor for your Beef Tips and Noodles is developing beautifully.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Next, add 1.5 pounds of cubed beef to the skillet, making sure to brown each piece on all sides. This process should take about 8–10 minutes and is essential to building depth in your dish. As the beef sears, you’ll notice a rich, golden crust forming, which enhances the overall flavor.
Step 3: Create the Flavorful Broth
Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and add a bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper to the skillet. Stir the mixture to combine and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, so the flavors meld together beautifully while you prepare for the next step.
Step 4: Simmer for Tenderness
Cover the skillet and allow the beef to simmer for 20–30 minutes. During this time, keep an eye on it, adding the remaining cup of beef broth as needed to maintain the liquid levels. The goal is for the beef to become fork-tender, ensuring that each bite of your Beef Tips and Noodles is melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
Step 5: Thicken the Gravy
In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup of cornstarch with 1 cup of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this into the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the gravy to thicken to your preference. You’ll know it’s ready when it coats the back of a spoon and clings to the beef, creating a luscious sauce.
Step 6: Cook the Egg Noodles
Meanwhile, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil and cook 12 ounces of egg noodles according to the package directions. Once cooked to al dente, drain the noodles and toss them with a touch of butter if you desire. This step adds extra flavor and helps prevent sticking as you prepare to serve.
Step 7: Serve with a Touch of Freshness
Spoon the tender beef and rich gravy generously over the warm egg noodles. For a pop of color and flavor, garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This final touch adds a delightful brightness to your Beef Tips and Noodles, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing.
How to Store and Freeze Beef Tips and Noodles
Fridge: Store leftover Beef Tips and Noodles in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the beef and noodles remain flavorful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Beef Tips and Noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture and flavor if needed. Enjoy your comforting meal again!
Room Temperature: Avoid keeping Beef Tips and Noodles at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
Beef Tips and Noodles Variations
Feel free to make this comforting dish your own—each variation adds a delightful twist!
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Dairy-Free: Swap butter with olive oil and keep the dish dairy-free, so everyone can enjoy it!
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Vegetarian: Replace beef with hearty mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth for a rich, savory alternative.
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Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to the gravy for a zesty kick that wakes up your taste buds.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano to enhance the savory profile of your rich gravy. Their aromas will fill your kitchen, inviting all to gather.
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Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce that envelopes your noodles splendidly.
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Gluten-Free Noodles: Substitute egg noodles with gluten-free pasta for a comforting bowl that everyone can enjoy without worry.
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Sautéed Veggies: Toss in your favorite vegetables—like mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots—during the simmer for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition.
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Slow Cooker Adaptation: Cook this dish in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day.
For more nourishing options, you might enjoy serving these Beef Tips and Noodles alongside Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts or a simple Mixed Greens Salad with Vinaigrette. Enjoy making this dish uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Beef Tips and Noodles
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Choose the Right Beef: Use chuck or round cuts, as they become tender during the simmering process, ensuring your Beef Tips and Noodles are melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
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Don't Rush Browning: Take your time browning the beef; this develops flavor. If you crowd the pan, the beef will steam instead of brown.
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Monitor Broth Levels: Keep an eye on the broth while simmering. Adding extra beef broth as needed ensures the beef stays moist and tender.
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Perfect Gravy Thickness: Adjust the cornstarch slurry based on your preference; use more for a thicker gravy or less for a lighter sauce on your noodles.
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Salt to Taste: Always adjust the seasoning to your liking. Taste the broth before serving to enhance the flavor of your Beef Tips and Noodles.
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Garnish for Color: Adding fresh parsley not only looks beautiful but also adds a hint of freshness that complements the rich gravy wonderfully.
What to Serve with Beef Tips and Noodles
A warm, comforting dish deserves delightful accompaniments to create a memorable meal experience.
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Garlic Bread: This buttery, garlicky treat adds a crunchy texture and perfect for soaking up any extra gravy.
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Steamed Broccoli: Lightly cooked, vibrant broccoli offers a refreshing contrast and brings a pop of color to your plate.
Combine the richness of beef and gravy with the fresh crunch of broccoli for a well-rounded meal.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The creamy tanginess of coleslaw provides a cool balance to the hearty flavors of the dish, enhancing every bite.
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Roasted Carrots: Sweet and caramelized, roasted carrots add a lovely sweetness and a touch of earthiness that complements beef beautifully.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, homemade croutons, and Caesar dressing create a delightful, refreshing side, perfect for lightening up the dish.
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Red Wine: A glass of robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs beautifully, enhancing the deep flavors of the beef while adding warmth to your dinner table.
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Chocolate Cake: Finish off your meal with a slice of rich chocolate cake for a sweet indulgence that brings a wonderful contrast to the savory dish.
Make Ahead Options
These Beef Tips and Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sauté the onions and brown the beef up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to finish the dish. Additionally, you can prepare the cornstarch slurry ahead of time and keep it refrigerated. When you're ready to serve, simply add in the beef broth, seasonings, and simmer everything together on the stove. This way, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful Beef Tips and Noodles with minimal effort, making your busy weeknights so much easier without sacrificing deliciousness!
Beef Tips and Noodles Recipe FAQs
What type of beef should I use for Beef Tips and Noodles?
Absolutely! I recommend using chuck or round cuts, as they become wonderfully tender during the simmering process, creating melt-in-your-mouth bites. Choose cuts with some marbling for optimal flavor and tenderness.
How should I store leftover Beef Tips and Noodles?
Very! To keep your meal fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This ensures that both the beef and noodles retain their flavor. I often make double batches just to have those comforting flavors on hand for a quick meal!
Can I freeze Beef Tips and Noodles? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze, transfer the Beef Tips and Noodles to a freezer-safe container and seal tightly. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to restore moisture—this tip works wonders!
How do I know if my beef is tender enough?
You’ll know the beef is fork-tender when it easily breaks apart when you're pulling it with a fork. This usually takes about 20–30 minutes of simmering on low heat. If you find it's still tough, just give it a bit more time while checking the broth levels to avoid drying out.
Can my pets share in the leftovers?
While it’s tempting to share your delicious Beef Tips and Noodles with your furry friends, it’s best not to. Ingredients like onions can be harmful to pets. If you wish to share, set aside some plain, unseasoned beef before adding any broth or spices.
What should I do if my gravy is too thick?
No worries! If your gravy comes out too thick, simply add a bit more beef broth or water, then stir well. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes to incorporate the additional liquid. Adjust to your desired consistency and you’ll have a lovely, smooth gravy to accompany those noodles perfectly.
Savory Beef Tips and Noodles Cooked to Perfection
Equipment
- large skillet
- pot for noodles
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- small bowl
Ingredients
For the Beef
- 2 tablespoons butter enriches the dish with a creamy texture and deep flavor
- 1 medium onion adds sweetness and savory depth to the savory broth
- 1.5 pounds beef use high-quality cuts like chuck for tender bites
For the Broth and Seasoning
- 2 cups beef broth forms the flavorful base of this savory sauce
- 1 leaf bay infuses a hint of earthiness
- 1 teaspoon thyme brings warmth and aromatic richness
- 1 teaspoon salt essential for enhancing the beef's natural flavors
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper adds a touch of spice and balance to the dish
For Thickening
- 0.25 cup cornstarch helps to thicken the gravy
- 1 cup cold water used to create a slurry that ensures a smooth gravy
For the Noodles
- 12 ounces egg noodles serve as the perfect vehicle for soaking up that delicious gravy
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the diced medium onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion turns soft and translucent.
- Next, add 1.5 pounds of cubed beef to the skillet, making sure to brown each piece on all sides. This process should take about 8–10 minutes.
- Pour in 2 cups of beef broth and add a bay leaf, 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Stir the mixture and bring it to a boil.
- Cover the skillet and allow the beef to simmer for 20–30 minutes, adding the remaining cup of beef broth as needed.
- In a small bowl, mix ¼ cup of cornstarch with 1 cup of cold water to create a smooth slurry. Stir this into the skillet and cook for about 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil and cook 12 ounces of egg noodles according to the package directions.
- Spoon the tender beef and rich gravy generously over the warm egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
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