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Comforting Crock Pot Beef & Noodles – Creamy, Cozy & Family Favorite

When you want a meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day, Crock Pot Beef & Noodles delivers every time. Slow-cooked beef becomes fall-apart tender, swimming in a rich, savory gravy that clings perfectly to soft egg noodles. It’s simple, hearty, and made for busy days when you want maximum comfort with minimal effort. This recipe is all about letting the slow cooker do the work. As the beef simmers gently, flavors deepen and the sauce turns silky and satisfying. By the time noodles are stirred in, you’ve got a bowl of classic comfort food that’s filling, cozy, and loved by the whole family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Simple ingredients create deep comforting flavor.
Beef
  • 2 lb beef chuck roast or stew meat cut into chunks
Base
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
Creamy Gravy
  • 1 cup heavy cream or thick plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch for thickening
Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt to taste
Noodles
  • 12 oz egg noodles
Optional Garnish
  • Fresh parsley finely chopped

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (5–6 quart)
  • Large skillet (optional, for searing)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Optional but helpful:
  • Ladle – for serving

Method
 

  1. Follow these steps for perfectly tender slow cooker beef & noodles.
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
  1. Optional but recommended: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Sear beef chunks on all sides until lightly browned.
  3. Transfer beef to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Build the Base
  1. Add chopped onion and minced garlic over the beef.
  2. Pour in beef broth.
  3. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Slow Cook
  1. Cover and cook:
  2. Low: 7–8 hours
  3. High: 4–5 hours
  4. Beef should be very tender and easy to shred.
Step 4: Shred and Thicken
  1. Shred beef slightly with a fork if desired.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 3 tablespoons cold water.
  3. Stir into the slow cooker.
  4. Add heavy cream or yogurt.
  5. Cover and cook on High for 20–30 minutes, until thickened.
Step 5: Add the Noodles
  1. Stir in egg noodles.
  2. Cover and cook for 20–30 minutes, stirring once, until noodles are tender.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
  1. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  2. Garnish with parsley if desired.
  3. Serve hot.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Freeze without noodles for best texture, up to 2 months.
Add fresh noodles when reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.
🥄 Variations
Customize your crock pot beef & noodles easily:
Extra Creamy
Add an extra ¼ cup cream.
Mushroom Version
Add sliced mushrooms during cooking.
Chicken Swap
Use chicken thighs and chicken broth.
Garlic Lovers
Add extra minced garlic.
Herb Boost
Add thyme or parsley at the end.
❓ 10 FAQs
What cut of beef works best?
Chuck roast becomes the most tender.
Do I need to sear the beef?
It adds flavor but can be skipped.
Can I use frozen beef?
Thaw first for even cooking.
Will the noodles get mushy?
Add them near the end to avoid overcooking.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, it’s mild and comforting.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, flavors improve the next day.
Does it thicken naturally?
Cornstarch ensures a creamy gravy.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger slow cooker.
Why add cream at the end?
It keeps the sauce smooth and rich.
Is this a complete meal?
Yes, it’s hearty and filling on its own.
🏁 Conclusion
This Crock Pot Beef & Noodles is classic comfort food made easy. Tender beef, creamy gravy, and soft noodles come together in a slow cooker for a meal that’s warm, filling, and deeply satisfying. Perfect for busy days or cozy nights, it’s a recipe you’ll reach for again and again.
Once you try it, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.