French Onion Beef and Noodle Casserole Recipe for a Quick Dinner

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French onion beef, beef and noodles, Blackstone recipes, hearty skillet meals, comfort food recipes, easy dinner ideas, one-pan meals

This Blackstone French Onion Beef and Noodles is a warm and cozy dish bursting with flavor! It combines tender beef, tasty onions, and soft noodles all in one skillet.

You’ll love how easy it is to make. I just throw everything together and let it simmer. Perfect for chilly nights when comfort food is a must! 🥰

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Beef Stew Meat: I recommend using chuck roast or a similar cut that will become tender when cooked. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use sirloin. Just remember, lean cuts may need extra care to avoid drying out.

Onions: Caramelized onions bring sweetness and depth to the dish. I use yellow onions for their balanced flavor, but white onions work too if that’s what you have. Sweet onions can add an extra layer of flavor.

Egg Noodles: These are my go-to for their perfect size and texture. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try rice noodles or zucchini noodles. They will change the dish’s texture but still absorb the sauce well.

Beef Broth: Homemade broth is great if you have it, but store-bought works just fine. You can also substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or for a vegetarian option, though it will change the taste.

Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie alternative, you can use half-and-half, but it won’t be as rich. For dairy-free, coconut cream can be a unique substitute.

How Do I Perfectly Caramelize Onions?

Caramelizing onions is the key to bring sweetness to the dish. It’s simple but requires patience. Don’t rush this step for the best flavor.

  • Heat your Blackstone or skillet over medium-high. Add olive oil and let it warm up first.
  • Add thinly sliced onions and stir to coat.
  • Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If they start to stick, lower the heat slightly.
  • Continue until they are golden brown and very soft. This slow cooking releases their natural sugars and makes them delicious!

How to Make Blackstone French Onion Beef and Noodles

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Main Dish:

  • 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small pieces
  • 8 oz egg noodles
  • 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup French onion dip (or cream cheese for a richer flavor)
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

  • 1 cup crispy fried onions
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll be ready to serve this tasty dish in about 40 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sauté the Onions:

Start by heating up your Blackstone griddle over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and let it warm up for a minute. Now, toss in the sliced onions. Sauté them until they turn beautifully caramelized, which should take about 10-15 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally so they don’t burn!

2. Cook the Egg Noodles:

While the onions are cooking, grab a separate pot and fill it with salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then add the egg noodles. Cook according to the package instructions until they’re nice and tender. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside for later.

3. Brown the Beef:

Now, it’s time to bring the beef into the mix! Push the caramelized onions to one side of the griddle and add the beef stew meat to the other side. Season it with salt and pepper, then cook until the beef is browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking!

4. Add the Liquid Ingredients:

Once your beef is nicely browned, pour in the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where the flavor really starts to come together!

5. Mix in the French Onion Dip:

Next, add in your French onion dip (or cream cheese if you prefer that richer flavor). Stir it well until everything is fully combined and the sauce thickens slightly. It should be looking creamy and delicious!

6. Combine with Noodles:

Now it’s time to bring in those cooked egg noodles! Add them to the beef and onion mixture, gently stirring to coat every noodle in that yummy sauce. Cook everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes until it’s heated through and well combined.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Time to dig in! Serve your Blackstone French Onion Beef and Noodles hot, topped with crispy fried onions and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your meal!

Can I Use Different Types of Pasta in This Recipe?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute them with other pasta types like rotini, penne, or even whole wheat pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, following the package instructions for best results.

What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to thicken it. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or cashew cream. Just be aware that these substitutes might slightly alter the flavor and texture of the dish.

How to Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or cream to help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Can I Prepare This Meal in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! To make this dish in a slow cooker, sauté the onions as directed, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the browned beef, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and heavy cream. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the French onion dip and cooked noodles, then let them heat through. Finish with crispy fried onions and parsley before serving.

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