French Onion Beef Noodles is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender beef, savory onions, and rich flavors in a creamy sauce, all served over egg noodles. This recipe offers a delicious twist on classic French onion soup, transforming it into a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 pounds London broil beef, cut into 1-1½-inch cubes
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 32 ounces unsalted beef broth
- 10.5 ounces French onion soup (from a can)
- 1.1 ounces beefy onion soup mix (packet from a 2.2-ounce box)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus additional for garnish)
- 12 ounces egg noodles
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 2.8 ounces crispy fried onions (French’s brand)
Directions:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Add the cubed beef and chopped onion. Cook until the meat is lightly browned on all sides, approximately 7-9 minutes.
- Once the meat is browned, add the unsalted beef broth, French onion soup, beefy onion soup mix, salt, black pepper, and fresh chopped parsley to the skillet. Lower the heat to medium and let the meat simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the egg noodles, ensuring they are submerged in the liquids. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the noodles for 10-12 minutes or until soft. Stir halfway through cooking to ensure even cooking.
- Once the noodles are cooked, remove the lid and turn off the heat. Stir in the sour cream until a thick sauce forms.
- Sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the top of the French onion beef noodles. Optionally, add an additional sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for garnish.
Tips:
- Ensure that the beef is cut into uniform pieces to promote even cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can add more salt and pepper if desired.
- Be mindful not to overcook the noodles, as they may become mushy.
- Serve the dish hot for the best flavor and texture.
Conclusion:
French Onion Beef Noodles is a delightful dish that brings together the flavors of French onion soup with tender beef and creamy noodles. With its rich flavors and comforting appeal, it’s sure to become a favorite meal for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home. Enjoy the delicious combination of savory beef, caramelized onions, and creamy sauce in every bite!
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
- Absolutely! While London broil beef is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can use other cuts such as chuck roast or sirloin. Just ensure that the beef is cut into cubes of similar size to promote even cooking and tender results.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. You can brown the beef and onions in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, simply proceed with adding the broth, soups, and noodles. However, it’s best to add the sour cream and crispy fried onions just before serving to maintain their freshness and texture.
3. Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
- While this recipe is centered around beef, you can certainly adapt it to suit vegetarian or vegan preferences. Consider using plant-based alternatives such as seitan or tempeh in place of beef. Substitute vegetable broth for the beef broth and opt for a vegan-friendly French onion soup. Additionally, you can replace sour cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut milk yogurt or cashew cream for a vegan-friendly version.
4. Can I freeze leftovers of French Onion Beef Noodles?
- Yes, you can freeze leftovers of this dish for future meals. Transfer the cooled leftovers into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen portion overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Keep in mind that the texture of the noodles may slightly change upon freezing and reheating, but the flavors will still be delicious.
5. Can I use homemade French onion soup instead of canned?
- Absolutely! If you prefer homemade French onion soup, you can certainly use it in this recipe. Simply prepare your favorite recipe for French onion soup, adjusting the seasoning to your taste preferences. Use it in place of the canned soup called for in the recipe, maintaining the overall flavor profile and richness of the dish.
6. Is it necessary to use unsalted beef broth?
- While unsalted beef broth is recommended in the recipe, you can use regular beef broth if that’s what you have on hand. Just be mindful of the overall saltiness of the dish and adjust the amount of added salt accordingly to prevent it from becoming too salty. Taste the dish as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your preferences.
7. Can I add additional vegetables to this recipe?
- Absolutely! Feel free to customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots would be excellent additions that complement the flavors of the beef and onions. Add the vegetables along with the beef and onions in the initial cooking stage to ensure they are cooked through and tender by the time the dish is ready to serve.
8. Can I substitute the egg noodles with another type of pasta?
- Yes, you can substitute egg noodles with other pasta varieties such as fettuccine, penne, or even rice noodles if you prefer. Keep in mind that different types of pasta may require varying cooking times, so adjust accordingly based on the package instructions and desired doneness. Choose a pasta shape that can hold the rich sauce well for the best dining experience.
