I have always loved meals that are comforting, hearty, and easy to prepare, and my Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles recipe perfectly fits that description. It’s one of those dishes that instantly makes a house feel like home, filling it with the rich aroma of tender beef, flavorful seasonings, and soft, satisfying noodles. I first tried making this recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. From that day, it became a staple in my cooking routine because it is effortless yet incredibly satisfying.

You will love this recipe because it combines simplicity with delicious results. The beef slowly cooks in the crock pot until it melts in your mouth, while the noodles soak up all the savory flavors, creating a comforting, cohesive dish. The texture is perfect every time, and the flavor is deep and rich, even though it requires minimal effort. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet homey, making it perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a cozy solo dinner.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can add vegetables such as carrots, peas, or mushrooms, adjust the seasoning to your preference, or even use different types of noodles depending on what you have on hand. It works as a complete meal on its own, or it can be paired with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.

This recipe is also budget-friendly. Using turkey bacon instead of pork, chicken ham instead of traditional ham, and beef instead of pork keeps it affordable without compromising taste. Most ingredients are pantry staples, which makes it convenient and economical.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles:

1.5 lbs beef, cut into chunks
2 slices turkey bacon, chopped
1 cup chicken ham, diced
4 cups beef broth
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz egg noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
Optional: carrots, peas, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture

This Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles recipe is designed to make your life easier while delivering a comforting, flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.

How to Prepare Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles

Preparing this Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles recipe is simple, and following each step ensures tender, flavorful beef and perfectly cooked noodles. Even if you’re busy, this dish is quick to assemble, and the slow cooker does most of the work.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Prepare the ingredients – Start by chopping the turkey bacon into small pieces and dicing the chicken ham. Peel and finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic cloves. If you are adding optional vegetables, wash and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
Brown the beef – Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks in batches to avoid overcrowding, and sear each side until browned. Browning the beef enhances the flavor and locks in juices. Remove the beef and set aside.
Cook the turkey bacon and chicken ham – In the same skillet, add the chopped turkey bacon and cook until slightly crisp. Then add the diced chicken ham and sauté for 2–3 minutes. This step builds a rich base of flavor for your slow cooker.
Sauté the aromatics – Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.
Transfer to the slow cooker – Place the browned beef, cooked turkey bacon, chicken ham, sautéed onions, and garlic into the slow cooker.
Add seasonings and broth – Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly. If adding vegetables, mix them in at this stage.
Cook low and slow – Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. The beef should be fork-tender, and the flavors well blended.
Prepare the noodles – About 30 minutes before the cooking time is complete, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Combine noodles and beef – Once the beef is tender, gently stir in the cooked noodles into the slow cooker. Mix carefully so the noodles absorb the flavorful sauce without breaking apart.
Adjust seasoning and serve – Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Quick and Easy Tips:

Using pre-chopped vegetables or pre-cooked noodles can reduce prep time.
This recipe is customizable: swap egg noodles for fettuccine, or add your favorite vegetables.
It’s popular for meal prep because leftovers taste even better the next day.

With these steps, you get a flavorful, comforting dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, while you enjoy the delicious aromas filling your home.

Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles recipe is a comforting, hearty meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Tender beef, flavorful turkey bacon, chicken ham, and perfectly cooked noodles combine to create a dish that is both satisfying and versatile.

Author: Lura Skye
Prep Time: 20
Cook Time: 8
Total Time: 28 minutes
Yield: 6 1x

Instructions

Prepare ingredients – Chop turkey bacon, dice chicken ham, finely chop onion, and mince garlic. Chop optional vegetables if using.
Brown the beef – Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown beef chunks on all sides, then remove and set aside.
Cook turkey bacon and chicken ham – In the same skillet, cook turkey bacon until slightly crisp. Add chicken ham and sauté for 2–3 minutes.
Sauté aromatics – Add onions and cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30–60 seconds.
Transfer to slow cooker – Place beef, turkey bacon, chicken ham, onions, and garlic into the slow cooker.
Add seasonings and broth – Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add optional vegetables if using. Stir to combine.
Cook low and slow – Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until beef is tender.
Cook noodles – About 30 minutes before serving, cook egg noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Combine noodles and beef – Stir cooked noodles into the slow cooker carefully. Mix to coat noodles in the sauce.
Adjust seasoning and serve – Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot.

Notes

For a richer texture, stir in cream or cream cheese before serving.

Leftovers store well in the fridge for 3–4 days.

Freeze beef and sauce separately from noodles for best results.

FAQs – Slow Cooker Beef & Noodles

1. Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes, you can use chuck roast, stew meat, or even brisket. Just ensure it’s cut into similar-sized chunks for even cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe without a slow cooker?
Absolutely. You can prepare it on the stovetop in a large pot or Dutch oven. Simmer the beef and broth over low heat for 2–3 hours until tender, then add the noodles.

3. Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes. Egg noodles work best, but you can substitute fettuccine, wide pasta, or even whole wheat noodles. Cook them separately and add them at the end to prevent overcooking.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

5. Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze the beef and sauce separately from the noodles. Thaw completely before reheating and add freshly cooked noodles for the best texture.

6. Can I add vegetables?
Definitely. Carrots, peas, mushrooms, or green beans can be added. Add firmer vegetables at the beginning of cooking and softer ones during the last hour to prevent overcooking.

7. How can I make it creamier?
You can stir in a bit of cream, cream cheese, or sour cream at the end of cooking for a richer texture.