Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender beef with flavorful noodles, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, requiring minimal preparation while delivering maximum flavor. The rich, savory gravy and melt-in-your-mouth beef make this a satisfying meal the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hands-off cooking – The slow cooker does all the work, making dinner effortless.
Rich and comforting – Tender beef and a flavorful gravy create a cozy, homey meal.
Simple ingredients – No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients.
Versatile serving options – Can be served over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Great for leftovers – Tastes even better the next day and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Beef stew meat
Brown gravy mix
Au jus mix
Water
Wide egg noodles

Directions

Prepare the Slow Cooker Mixture

In the crock of a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker, combine the beef stew meat, brown gravy mix, au jus mix, and water.
Stir until the meat is evenly coated with the seasonings.

Cook

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the beef is tender.

Prepare the Noodles

About 20 minutes before the beef is done, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well.

Combine and Serve

If the gravy is thinner than desired, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker, turn the heat to high, and cook for about 20 minutes until the gravy thickens.
Serve the beef and gravy over the cooked egg noodles.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving

Variations

Use different noodles – Try fettuccine, rotini, or even homemade dumplings for a unique twist.
Make it extra creamy – Stir in ½ cup of sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
Boost the flavor – Add sautéed onions, mushrooms, or garlic to the slow cooker for extra depth.
Swap the protein – Use chicken thighs for a different take on this dish.
Spice it up – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes! Chuck roast, sirloin, or rump roast all work well in this recipe.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes! Cook on high for 4-5 hours if you’re short on time.

How do I make the gravy thicker?

Use the cornstarch slurry method (mixing cornstarch with cold water before adding to the slow cooker).

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free gravy mix and serve with gluten-free pasta or rice.

What should I serve with this dish?

Pair it with roasted vegetables, a side salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker?

Absolutely! Carrots, mushrooms, or peas would make great additions.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes! Just store in freezer-safe containers and reheat when needed.

Can I use fresh instead of dried seasonings?

Yes! If using fresh herbs, double the amount to get the same flavor.

Can I use homemade beef broth?

Definitely! Homemade beef broth adds even more depth to the dish.

Can I prepare this the night before?

Yes! Assemble everything in the slow cooker the night before and refrigerate. Just start cooking in the morning.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Beef and Noodles is a simple yet flavorful meal that brings comfort to the table with minimal effort. The tender beef, rich gravy, and perfectly cooked noodles create a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this hearty meal is always a winner!