Beef Tips and Noodles

Introduction

Beef Tips and Noodles is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender beef, savory gravy, and perfectly cooked noodles for a meal that’s both filling and satisfying. The beef tips are seared to perfection, then simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce that absorbs into the noodles, making each bite a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

I remember the first time I made this for a family dinner. The smell of the beef simmering in the sauce was enough to make everyone’s mouths water. The savory gravy brings all the flavors together, and the noodles soak up every bit of the delicious sauce, creating a comforting bite every time. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this dish has the kind of warmth and heartiness that makes it a go-to favorite.

The beauty of Beef Tips and Noodles lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients, you can make a meal that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare. Perfect for family gatherings, or when you just want something to fill your stomach and soul, this dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Comfort food cravings
• Weeknight meals
• Meal prep
• Special occasions or holidays

Why You’ll Love This Recipe Beef Tips and Noodles

Here’s why Beef Tips and Noodles will become your go-to comfort food:

• Tender Beef: The beef tips are cooked low and slow until they are melt-in-your-mouth tender, absorbing all the savory flavors of the sauce.
• Savory Sauce: The rich gravy made from beef broth and seasonings creates a savory, aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the beef and noodles.
• Simple and Quick: Despite its rich flavor, this recipe is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal.
• Versatile Dish: You can adjust the seasonings and add-ins to suit your tastes. Plus, this dish works well with a variety of noodles, making it customizable based on what you have on hand.
• Comforting and Filling: This dish is hearty, satisfying, and the ultimate comfort food that’s sure to leave you feeling full and content.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Beef Tips and Noodles:

• 1.5 lbs beef stew meat or beef tips (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 3 cups egg noodles (or your preferred noodles)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for finishing)

Ingredient Highlights

• Beef Tips: The beef tips provide the perfect amount of tenderness and flavor when simmered in the gravy, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Beef Broth: A rich beef broth helps form the base for the savory sauce, adding depth and flavor to the dish.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This adds a unique umami flavor that elevates the sauce and gives the dish extra richness.
• Herbs and Seasonings: Thyme, rosemary, and paprika bring out the savory flavors in the beef, while garlic and onion provide aromatic depth.
• Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are classic in this dish, absorbing the sauce and adding a soft texture to balance the beef.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Beef Tips and Noodles:

Prepare the Beef Tips and Gravy:

1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef tips in batches, searing them until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper, and bring to a simmer.
4. Return the Beef: Add the browned beef tips back into the pot. Stir to combine and coat the beef with the gravy. Cover and simmer on low for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.

Prepare the Noodles:

5. Cook the Noodles: While the beef is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Finish the Dish: Once the beef is tender and the sauce is thickened, stir in the cooked noodles, tossing to coat them in the gravy. Add butter, if using, for extra richness.

Serve:

7. Serve: Spoon the beef tips and noodles onto plates or bowls. Garnish with additional herbs or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve Beef Tips and Noodles

Beef Tips and Noodles is a complete meal on its own, but here are some ideas for serving it:

• With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the beef and noodles.
• With Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or green beans for a well-rounded meal.
• With Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty loaf of bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
• For Family Dinners: This dish is perfect for family-style dining. Serve in a large bowl or pot for everyone to help themselves.
• With a Sprinkle of Parmesan: For an added touch of flavor, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

Additional Tips for Beef Tips and Noodles

Here are some tips to ensure your Beef Tips and Noodles are perfect every time:

• Brown the Beef Well: Searing the beef tips well will add depth and flavor to the dish. Don’t skip this step!
• Use a Good Beef Broth: The quality of your beef broth will impact the flavor of the gravy. Opt for a rich, flavorful broth for the best results.
• Let the Beef Simmer: Simmer the beef slowly to make it tender. If you cook it too quickly, the beef won’t become as tender.
• Adjust the Gravy Thickness: If the gravy is too thick, add a little more beef broth or water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary are great additions if you have them on hand. They’ll enhance the flavor of the sauce.
• Add Vegetables: For added nutrition, consider adding peas, carrots, or mushrooms to the sauce during the simmering process.
• Use a Dutch Oven: If you have a Dutch oven, it’s perfect for this dish as it evenly distributes heat and helps tenderize the beef.

Recipe Variations for Beef Tips and Noodles

Here are 10 variations you can try for Beef Tips and Noodles:

• Beef Tips and Mashed Potatoes: Serve the beef tips and gravy over mashed potatoes instead of noodles for a comforting twist.
• Beef and Mushroom Noodles: Add sliced mushrooms to the gravy for an earthy flavor that pairs well with the beef.
• Spicy Beef Tips and Noodles: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the gravy for a little heat.
• Creamy Beef Tips and Noodles: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a creamy version of the gravy.
• Slow Cooker Beef Tips and Noodles: Brown the beef tips, then place everything in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until the beef is tender.
• Beef Tips Stroganoff: Add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika for a beef stroganoff-inspired variation.
• Garlic Butter Beef Tips and Noodles: Add extra butter and garlic for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
• Beef Tips with Rice: Serve the beef tips and gravy over steamed rice instead of noodles for a different texture.
• Beef Tips and Peas: Add frozen peas to the sauce for a burst of color and flavor.
• Vegetarian “Beef” Tips and Noodles: Substitute the beef with plant-based meat or mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

Freezing and Storage for Beef Tips and Noodles

• Freezing: The beef tips and gravy freeze well. Let the dish cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Beef Tips and Noodles

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Beef Tips and Noodles easier:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A deep, heavy pot is ideal for browning the beef and simmering the sauce.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Use these to stir the beef and sauce, avoiding scratches in your cookware.
• Strainer or Colander: For draining the cooked noodles.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements of the ingredients.
• Sharp Knife: To chop the onion and garlic easily.
• Tongs or Slotted Spoon: For handling the beef tips during the searing process.
• Storage Containers: To store leftovers after the meal.

Frequently Asked Questions for Beef Tips and Noodles

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
   Yes, you can use other tender cut of beef, such as sirloin or flank steak, but stew meat works best for its tenderness when simmered.
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening.
3. Can I use a different type of noodle?
   Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as egg noodles, fettuccine, or even rice.
4. How do I know when the beef is tender?
   The beef will be tender when it’s easy to cut with a fork or when it shreds easily. This usually takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour of simmering.
5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
   Yes, brown the beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off version of the recipe.

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Conclusion

Beef Tips and Noodles is the ultimate comfort dish, featuring tender beef tips simmered in a rich, savory gravy that perfectly coats the noodles. With minimal ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to make. The beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the noodles soak up the delicious sauce, creating a hearty, flavorful meal that everyone will love.

Ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or a family meal, Beef Tips and Noodles offers that perfect balance of comfort and flavor. It’s simple, filling, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

I’d love to see how your Beef Tips and Noodles turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your tasty creations. Enjoy cooking!