This tasty beef and noodles dish comes together in just 30 minutes! With tender beef, soft noodles, and a savory sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to please.
You can whip this up on a busy night when cooking feels like a chore—quick, hearty, and comforting! I love adding some veggies to the mix for extra color. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I suggest using sirloin or flank steak for tenderness. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground beef works well too, and it’s quicker to cook. For a lighter option, try shredded chicken or tofu.
Egg noodles: These are fantastic for their quick cooking time and texture. However, you can substitute with whole wheat noodles, rice noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free twist.
Vegetable oil: While vegetable oil is great for frying, you can use canola or olive oil instead. If you’re after a richer flavor, sesame oil adds a unique touch—just use a little less because it’s strong.
Beef broth: Homemade broth is wonderful, but store-bought works just fine. If you’re looking to cut sodium, low-sodium broth or even water will do, just season accordingly.
Mushrooms: These add flavor and texture. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, try bell peppers or snap peas for some crunch.
How Do I Get My Beef Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking beef to the right doneness is crucial for great texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the beef; this helps sear the meat.
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tender bites. This makes a big difference!
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to keep the heat high.
- Cook until browned but still slightly pink in the center. Carryover cooking will handle the rest.
Letting it rest for a minute before mixing it back in with the sauce helps keep it juicy. Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!
Quick and Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced
- 8 oz (225g) egg noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of 30 minutes. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight meal while still being hearty and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
2. Sauté the Beef:
While your noodles are cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef to the skillet and season it with salt and pepper. Cook the beef for about 3-4 minutes, or until it is browned but still slightly pink in the middle. Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook it for about 2 minutes, or until it becomes soft. Next, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms (if you’re using them) and cook for another 2 minutes or until fragrant. This will add amazing flavor to your dish!
4. Create the Sauce:
Now, pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme (or Italian seasoning) into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer; this will help all the flavors come together.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked beef to the skillet along with the drained noodles. Toss everything together gently until all the ingredients are well combined and heated through—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
6. Final Touches:
Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Once it’s to your liking, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
7. Serve!
Your quick and easy beef and noodles are now ready to serve! Plate it up and enjoy a hearty meal prepared in no time.
FAQ for Quick and Easy 30-Minute Beef and Noodles
Can I Use Another Type of Meat?
Absolutely! Chicken, pork, or even tofu are great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats may require varying cooking times.
What Can I Use Instead of Egg Noodles?
If you don’t have egg noodles, you can substitute with wide rice noodles, whole wheat noodles, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure they’re cooked to your preference.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef and noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color. Just sauté them alongside the onion in the skillet until they’re tender.
