Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this egg noodle beef pasta will become a favorite.
-
Only 4 ingredients. Simple and flavorful.
-
No pre-cooking. Everything goes into the slow cooker raw.
-
Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
-
Creamy and hearty. Rich, savory, and satisfying.
-
Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves beef and noodles.
-
Budget-friendly. Beef stew meat and noodles are inexpensive.
-
Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
-
1 1/2 pounds beef stew meat
-
12 ounces dry egg noodles
-
2 cans (10.5 ounces each) condensed cream of mushroom soup
-
1 cup water or beef broth (optional, for thinning)
Ingredient Notes
Beef stew meat: Use beef stew meat or cut your own from a chuck roast. Chuck is well-marbled and becomes very tender when cooked low and slow. Do not use lean cuts like sirloin.
Dry egg noodles: Use wide, ribbon-style egg noodles. They hold their shape during cooking. Do not cook them before adding to the slow cooker.
Condensed cream of mushroom soup: Use the standard 10.5-ounce cans. Do not add water unless needed. The soup adds creaminess and savory umami.
Water or beef broth: Optional. Add if you prefer a thinner sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Lightly grease the inside of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or a little oil.
Step 2: Layer the Beef
Place the beef stew meat in an even layer on the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the Noodles
Sprinkle the dry egg noodles evenly over the beef.
Step 4: Add the Soup
Spoon the condensed cream of mushroom soup over the noodles. Do not stir. If you prefer a thinner sauce, pour the water or beef broth over the top.
Step 5: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 7 hours, or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The beef should be tender and the noodles cooked through.
Step 6: Stir and Serve
Stir the mixture gently to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
How to Serve Egg Noodle Beef Pasta
This creamy, hearty dish is delicious on its own, but a few simple sides can round it out.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: A loaf of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Roasted green beans, carrots, or broccoli add color and balance.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives.
With Grated Parmesan: Add extra Parmesan for more flavor.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Chicken: Substitute chicken thighs for the beef.
Make It with Ground Beef: Use ground beef instead of stew meat.
Make It with Different Soup: Use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup.
Make It with Onion: Add 1 sliced onion to the slow cooker.
Make It with Mushrooms: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms.
Make It with Garlic: Add 4 cloves of minced garlic.
Make It with Herbs: Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme or parsley.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and soup.
Make It in a Dutch Oven: Bake at 325°F for 2 to 2 1/2 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not stir at the beginning. The layers will cook evenly without stirring.
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Add liquid if needed. If the sauce seems too thick, add broth or water.
Check the noodles. They should be tender but not mushy.
Let the dish rest before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Chicken or ground beef can be used.
Can I use a different noodle?
Yes. Any pasta can be used. Adjust the cook time.
Can I use a different soup?
Yes. Cream of chicken or celery soup can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble and refrigerate. Cook just before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my beef tough?
It did not cook long enough. Cook until tender.
Why are my noodles mushy?
They were overcooked. Check at 6 hours.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add mushrooms, onions, or peas.
Can I use low-sodium soup?
Yes. Low-sodium soup can be used.
The Amish Kitchen Wisdom
Amish cooking is about feeding a family well with what is available. It is about dishes that are simple, honest, and deeply satisfying.
This egg noodle beef pasta embodies that wisdom. Beef stew meat is affordable. Noodles are a pantry staple. Canned soup is convenient. Nothing is wasted. Everything is stretched.
Keep beef in your freezer. Keep noodles in your pantry. Keep soup in your cupboard. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 6–7 hours on LOW or 3–4 hours on HIGH
Total Time: Approximately 6 to 7 hours
Yield: 6 servings