simple beef and noodles recipe
The Best simple beef and noodles recipe
I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. You can adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s taste, and the ingredients are mostly things you already have in your pantry—just a few easy-to-find staples like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. It’s also a great way to use up leftovers or extra meat, making it perfect for meal prep or when you want to stretch a protein without much extra effort. Plus, the health benefits are pretty solid: lean beef provides protein, whole wheat noodles add fiber, and the veggies in the sauce give a little extra crunch and nutrients. It’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing, and it always leaves everyone happy.
Easy Beef and Noodles with Homemade Sauce
A quick, flavorful dish where tender beef and fresh noodles are tossed in a simple tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal with minimal effort.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 fat ratio)
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or spaghetti)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed. -
2
In a separate bowl, mix tomato sauce, diced onion, minced garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Set aside. -
3
Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the beef, stirring to combine. Pour the sauce over the noodles and beef, coating evenly. Simmer for 5 minutes until flavors meld. -
4
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Kitchen shears
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Beef and Noodles with Homemade Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beef and Noodles with Sauce
How do I adjust the sauce for a thinner or thicker consistency?
Use a fork or whisk to stir in a splash of water, broth, or even a spoonful of pasta water to loosen the sauce. If the mixture is too thick, let it simmer uncovered for 1–2 minutes to evaporate excess liquid. Adjust as needed while keeping the beef and noodles warm.
Can I substitute beef broth for water in the recipe?
Yes, using beef broth instead of water adds richer flavor to the sauce. Choose a low-sodium broth to avoid over-salting the dish. If you’re using a high-sodium broth, reduce the added salt in the recipe by about ½ teaspoon.
What if I don’t have a heavy-bottomed pan for cooking?
A nonstick or cast-iron pan will work, but stir frequently to prevent sticking. For extra care, lightly grease the pan with oil or butter before cooking. If the beef browns unevenly, cook it in batches if needed.
How do I know when the noodles are tender enough?
Noodles are done when they reach al dente consistency—slightly firm to the bite. Taste a piece after 4–5 minutes of cooking and adjust the water temperature if needed. If they’re still undercooked, add a splash of hot water and cover while finishing the sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is hot through and the noodles are tender again. Avoid reheating in the sauce if you prefer the noodles to stay al dente.
