This Ground Beef Noodles dish is the ultimate weeknight rescue—savory seasoned beef, tender egg noodles, and a rich, savory sauce all cooked in one pot. Inspired by classic Midwestern “goulash” but streamlined for speed, it’s simple, satisfying, and deeply comforting.
No fancy ingredients. No stress. Just real food that sticks to your ribs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍜 One pot = easy cleanup
- ⏱️ 25 minutes start to finish
- 💸 Costs under $8—feeds 4–6 generously
- 🌾 Naturally nut-free & easily gluten-free
- ❤️ Kid-approved and pantry-friendly
Ingredients You’ll Need
(Large skillet or Dutch oven)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85/15)
- 8 oz (225g) wide egg noodles (or any egg noodle)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp paprika (optional, for depth)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn
💡 Pro Tips:
- Don’t drain beef fat completely—a little adds flavor.
- Break noodles in half if using long strands.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking as noodles absorb liquid.
Step-by-Step Instructions (Savory, Simple, Foolproof)
1. Brown the Beef
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned (5–6 mins).
- Add onion and garlic; cook 3–4 mins until soft. Drain excess fat if desired.
2. Add Liquids & Seasonings
- Stir in beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a simmer.
3. Cook the Noodles
- Add egg noodles; stir to submerge.
- Reduce heat to medium-low; cover and simmer 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
4. Finish & Serve
- Stir in peas or corn (if using); cook 2 more minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot with grated Parmesan or fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- 🧀 Classic pairing: Grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar on top
- 🥗 Balanced plate: Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- 🍞 For soaking up sauce: Garlic bread or buttered rolls
- 🌶️ Spicy kick: Red pepper flakes or hot sauce
Make-Ahead & Storage Tips
- Fridge: Keeps up to 4 days—reheat with splash of broth or water.
- Freeze? Yes! Freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight; reheat gently.
- Prep ahead: Chop onion and garlic; store separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use GF egg noodles (like Jovial or Gefen).
A: Yes! Use GF egg noodles (like Jovial or Gefen).
Q: No tomato sauce?
A: Substitute with 1 cup crushed tomatoes + 2 tbsp tomato paste.
A: Substitute with 1 cup crushed tomatoes + 2 tbsp tomato paste.
Q: Mushy noodles?
A: Don’t overcook—check at 10 minutes. Noodles continue absorbing liquid off-heat.
A: Don’t overcook—check at 10 minutes. Noodles continue absorbing liquid off-heat.
Q: Can I use ground turkey?
A: Yes—but add 1 tbsp olive oil for moisture.
A: Yes—but add 1 tbsp olive oil for moisture.
❤️ The Heart of the Dish
Ground Beef Noodles isn’t fancy—but it’s real food for real life. It’s what you make when time is short but hunger is deep, and it proves that comfort doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
So brown that beef, toss in those noodles, and let the pot do the work. Because the best meals aren’t complicated—they’re hearty, humble, and made with love.
“Good food doesn’t need a recipe—it just needs beef, noodles, and someone hungry.” 🍜✨
