Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. That is how Southern flavors settle and sing. Prepare the dish, cool it, and refrigerate. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Can I use a slow cooker or crock pot for this recipe?

Absolutely. Brown the onions and beef first to keep the caramelized flavor. Then place everything in the crock pot and cook on low. Add cooked noodles near the end to keep them from becoming too soft.

What if I want it creamier or less creamy?

For more cream, stir in extra sour cream or a splash of heavy cream at the end. For less, omit the sour cream and let the French onion soup and broth carry the sauce. Taste as you go and adjust.

How do I prevent the noodles from getting soggy?

Cook the noodles to just shy of tenderness, then drain and toss with a tiny bit of butter to keep them separate. Fold them into the sauce right before serving so they soak up flavor without falling apart.

Can I use leftover roast beef instead of ground beef?

Yes. Thinly sliced leftover roast beef can be gently warmed in the sauce. Add it later in the cooking process so it stays tender and does not overcook.

Easy One-Pot French Onion Beef and Noodles for a Hearty Meal 2026

Name: Easy One-Pot French Onion Beef and Noodles for a Hearty Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced beef strips); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup; 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional); 8 oz egg noodles; 1/2 cup sour cream (optional); 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese; 1/2 cup crispy fried onions (optional)

Description

A comforting dish that combines the deep sweetness of caramelized onions, rich beef, and tender egg noodles, bringing warmth and nostalgia to any table.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef (or thinly sliced beef strips)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (10.5 oz) French onion soup
2 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
8 oz egg noodles
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
1/2 cup crispy fried onions (optional)

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Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
Add sliced onions and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and caramelized.
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add ground beef (or sliced beef strips) to the skillet.
Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in French onion soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, salt, and thyme.
Bring to a gentle simmer and let cook for 10 minutes to enhance flavors.
While the sauce simmers, boil egg noodles according to package directions.
Stir cooked noodles into the beef and onion sauce.
Mix in sour cream (if using) for a creamy texture.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover for 2-3 minutes until melted.
Top with crispy fried onions for extra crunch and serve warm.

Notes

Use real butter for caramelizing the onions. For a creamier texture, add more sour cream. Leftovers improve in flavor and can be reheated gently.

Prep Time: 15
Cook Time: 45
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 850mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg