Slow cooker beef & noodles is a true Midwestern comfort dish

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Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles – A True Midwestern Comfort Dish

When it comes to hearty, soul-warming meals, few dishes can compete with the comforting simplicity of Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles. It’s a classic Midwestern staple — rich, creamy, and full of tender beef simmered in a savory broth until it practically melts in your mouth. This dish combines the homestyle charm of a Sunday dinner with the convenience of slow cooking, making it perfect for busy days when you want something truly comforting at the end of the day.

Below is a step-by-step guide to making this wholesome meal that brings the heart of Midwestern comfort straight to your table.

🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Beef & Broth:

2 to 2½ pounds beef chuck roast (or stewing beef)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cups beef broth
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (optional: cream of celery for variation)
1 packet onion soup mix (or homemade seasoning blend)
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, for aroma)

For the Noodles:

12 ounces egg noodles (frozen homestyle or dry wide noodles)
1 cup additional beef broth (as needed)
2 tablespoons butter (optional, for creaminess)

🍲 Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by trimming any large pieces of fat from your beef chuck roast. Cut the roast into large chunks (about 2-inch pieces). This ensures the beef cooks evenly and becomes tender throughout.

Lightly season the pieces with salt and pepper. You can also sear them in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side before adding to the slow cooker — this step deepens the flavor with caramelized edges, but it’s optional if you’re short on time.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Place the chopped onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. This helps infuse the broth with their sweetness as it cooks. Next, layer the beef chunks over the onions.

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, Worcestershire sauce, onion soup mix, garlic powder, black pepper, and thyme. Pour this savory mixture evenly over the beef.

Step 3: Let It Cook Low and Slow

Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook:

On Low: 7–8 hours
On High: 4–5 hours

The goal is for the beef to become so tender it can be easily shredded with a fork. During this time, the broth thickens slightly and turns into a rich gravy-like sauce.