This quick beef and noodles dish is perfect for busy nights! With tender beef, soft noodles, and a tasty sauce, it comes together in just 30 minutes.
I love how simple it is—no fancy skills needed! Just cook everything in one pot and enjoy a hearty meal without the long wait. It’s like magic! 🪄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef to reduce fat, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Egg Noodles: Traditional for this recipe, but you can swap them for whole wheat pasta or gluten-free noodles if needed. Just adjust the cooking time as per package instructions.
Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, consider cream of chicken soup or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream.
Beef Broth: Homemade or store-bought works great. If you want to reduce sodium, opt for low-sodium beef broth. Vegetable broth is another tasty substitute.
Frozen Peas/Mixed Vegetables: Adds color and nutrition! Feel free to use any frozen or fresh veggies you like, such as corn or green beans.
How Do I Make Sure the Noodles Don’t Become Mushy?
Cooking noodles just right is key for this dish! Here are easy steps to avoid overcooking:
- Cook the noodles directly in the broth; they’ll absorb flavor while cooking.
- Keep an eye on the time—typically, they need about 8-10 minutes to cook until al dente.
- Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
- If you think they’re softening too much, you can pull them off the heat a minute early and let the residual heat finish the cooking!
Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner when you’re short on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat. Add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 2-3 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep stirring until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
3. Add Flavorings:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried Italian herbs (or parsley), and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix it well and let it heat through for a minute.
4. Bring to a Boil:
Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together. Bring the mixture to a boil on high heat, which will help to build more flavor.
5. Cook the Noodles:
After boiling, add the egg noodles and frozen peas or mixed vegetables (if you’re using them). Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer. Keep stirring occasionally until the noodles are tender, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
6. Combine with Soup:
Now, stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup. Mix everything until well combined and heated through. If the mixture looks too thick, feel free to add a little more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your beef and noodles, then adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if you need it.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Your delicious beef and noodles are ready to serve! Scoop them onto plates or bowls and sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy this comforting dish hot!
Bon Appétit!
FAQ for Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles Recipe
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Cream of Mushroom Soup?
No worries! You can substitute it with a can of cream of chicken soup or make a simple homemade creamy sauce using milk, flour, and seasonings. Just whisk together until smooth and adjust the thickness as needed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a saucepan on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Omit the cream of mushroom soup or use a dairy-free version to keep it vegetarian!
