French Onion Beef and Noodles

French Onion Beef and Noodles is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich, savory taste of caramelized onions, tender ground beef, and egg noodles in a savory broth, all topped with melted Gruyere cheese. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week, offering the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese

Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until caramelized, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
5. Slowly whisk in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet and simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
7. Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
8. Once the noodles are cooked, add them to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef mixture.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Top with shredded Gruyere cheese and cover the skillet to melt the cheese.
11. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

1. Cheese Alternatives: Swap the Gruyere cheese for Swiss, mozzarella, or cheddar for a different flavor.
2. Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or extra mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
3. Add Veggies: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas to add more flavor and nutrition.
4. Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to maintain moisture. You can also reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. It will still work well with the caramelized onions and broth.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the beef and onion mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the noodles, add the mixture, and top with cheese.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or provolone, but Gruyere gives a unique depth of flavor that is characteristic of French onion dishes.
4. Can I freeze the leftovers? Yes, this dish can be frozen. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
5. What can I serve with French Onion Beef and Noodles? This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own, but a simple green salad or steamed vegetables would complement it nicely.
6. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Yes, you can cook the beef and onion mixture in a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Add the cooked noodles and cheese in the last 30 minutes.
7. Can I use another type of noodle? Yes, egg noodles work best, but you can substitute them with other pasta types like fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti if you prefer.
8. How do I make the onions more caramelized? Cook the onions over low to medium heat for a longer period of time. This helps to draw out their natural sugars and achieve that rich, caramelized flavor.
9. What can I do if the sauce is too thick? If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little extra beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
10. Can I add more garlic for extra flavor? Yes, feel free to increase the garlic if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor in your dish.

Conclusion

French Onion Beef and Noodles is a simple yet comforting meal that brings the flavors of French onion soup together in a hearty and satisfying way. The combination of ground beef, caramelized onions, beef broth, and melted cheese makes for a flavorful and filling dinner that will please the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on a chilly evening, this dish is sure to become a favorite!