Why This Recipe Is a Keeper
Before we dive into the method, here is why this French beef and noodles will become a favorite.
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Only a handful of ingredients. Simple and affordable.
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Great for leftovers. Use beef stew meat.
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Set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the work.
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Rich and savory. Tangy, creamy, and satisfying.
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Crowd-pleasing. Everyone loves beef and noodles.
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Budget-friendly. Beef stew meat and noodles are inexpensive.
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Perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Servings: 6
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2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1- to 1 1/2-inch chunks
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1 cup bottled French salad dressing (thick, orange, sweet-tangy style)
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1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
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1 (1-ounce) packet dry onion soup mix
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2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
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12 ounces wide egg noodles, uncooked
Ingredient Notes
Beef stew meat: Use beef stew meat. Cut into bite-size chunks.
French dressing: Use thick, orange, sweet-tangy French dressing.
Cream of mushroom soup: Creates the creamy sauce base.
Onion soup mix: Adds savory depth.
Beef broth: Adds moisture and flavor.
Egg noodles: Use wide egg noodles. Cook them just before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Layer the Beef
Place the beef stew meat in an even layer on the bottom of a 5- to 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the French dressing, cream of mushroom soup, onion soup mix, and beef broth. Whisk until smooth.
Step 3: Add the Sauce
Pour the sauce mixture evenly over the beef. Stir gently to coat.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 7 to 8 hours, or on HIGH for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, until the beef is very tender.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles
About 25 to 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain well.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
Stir the cooked noodles into the slow cooker. Fold gently until coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
How to Serve French Beef and Noodles
This rich, savory noodle dish is delicious on its own, but a few accompaniments make it even better.
With a Green Salad: A simple salad cuts through the richness.
With Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the sauce.
With Roasted Vegetables: Serve with green beans or broccoli.
With Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with parsley or chives.
With Extra Sauce: Ladle extra sauce over the top.
Variations & Tips
Make It with Chicken: Substitute chicken thighs for the beef.
Make It with Pork: Use pork stew meat.
Make It with Different Dressing: Use Russian or Catalina dressing.
Make It with Different Soup: Use cream of chicken or celery soup.
Make It with Herbs: Add thyme or parsley.
Make It with Garlic: Add minced garlic.
Make It Spicier: Add red pepper flakes.
Make It Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and soup.
Make It in a Dutch Oven: Simmer on the stove for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Pro Tips for Absolute Success
Do not lift the lid during cooking. This traps the heat and steam.
Cook the noodles just before serving. This prevents them from becoming mushy.
Stir gently when combining. This prevents the noodles from breaking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different meat?
Yes. Chicken or pork can be used.
Can I use a different dressing?
Yes. Russian or Catalina dressing can be used.
Can I use a different soup?
Yes. Cream of chicken or celery soup can be used.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing is not recommended. The sauce may separate.
How long do leftovers last?
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Why is my sauce thin?
The meat released too much moisture. Let it rest.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Add mushrooms or onions.
Can I use a different pan?
This recipe is designed for a slow cooker.
Can I use fresh noodles?
Yes. Reduce the cook time.
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 French beef and noodles embodies that wisdom. Beef stew meat is affordable. Noodles are filling. Canned soup is convenient. Nothing is wasted. Everything is stretched.
Keep beef in your freezer. Keep noodles and soup in your pantry. This recipe is the reason why.
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7–8 hours on LOW or 3 1/2–4 hours on HIGH
Noodle Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 7 to 8 hours
Yield: 6 servings