Beef Noodle Skillet

Beef Noodle Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal made with ground beef, tender noodles, and a creamy, savory sauce. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast without sacrificing flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet meal is rich, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make. With just one pan and simple ingredients, you can have a homemade dinner ready in under 30 minutes. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and completely customizable. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in a single skillet.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Egg noodles (or any short pasta)
• Beef broth
• Tomato paste or diced tomatoes
• Worcestershire sauce
• Sour cream or cream cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Olive oil (if needed)
• Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add diced onion and garlic to the pan. Cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes.
4. Add uncooked noodles and beef broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until noodles are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in sour cream (or cream cheese) until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and cover for a few minutes until melted, if using.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 and takes about 30 minutes total (10 minutes prep, 20 minutes cooking).

Variations

• Cheeseburger style: Add ketchup, mustard, and pickles for a fun twist.
• Add veggies: Mix in frozen peas, corn, or spinach for a boost of nutrition.
• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Use different pasta: Rotini, penne, or shells also work well.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or milk if the noodles have absorbed too much sauce.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a lighter alternative.

Do I cook the noodles separately?

No, they cook right in the skillet with the sauce, which saves time and adds flavor.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, this dish reheats well and can be made 1–2 days in advance.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of both melt nicely and add great flavor.

Can I freeze this skillet meal?

It can be frozen, but the texture of the noodles may soften upon reheating. Freeze in a tightly sealed container for up to 2 months.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Absolutely—creamy noodles and ground beef are usually a hit with kids.

What can I serve with it?

A green salad or steamed vegetables pair well for a balanced meal.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or heavy cream are good alternatives.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?

Stir occasionally while simmering and make sure there’s enough broth in the pan.

Conclusion

Beef Noodle Skillet is the kind of comforting, easy dinner that busy families love. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable to what you have on hand. With minimal cleanup and maximum comfort, this one-skillet meal is sure to earn a regular spot in your dinner rotation.

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