Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles recipe is the perfect simple and delicious comfort food for busy days. Just toss the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it work its magic. If you love effortless meals, try our Crockpot Creamy Tortellini Soup or Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe for more cozy dinner ideas.

Ingredients

This comforting dish fills your kitchen with the savory aroma of seasoned beef and tomatoes as it simmers to perfection in your crockpot.

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 8 oz egg noodles
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	6 hours
Total Time	6 hours 15 minutes

Context: This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes since the slow cooker does most of the work while you prep the simple ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Drain any excess grease before transferring the beef to your crockpot.

For best flavor, season the beef lightly with salt and pepper while browning. This step ensures your Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles has a rich, savory base.

Step 2 — Combine Ingredients in the Crockpot

Add beef broth, cream of mushroom soup, minced garlic, and onion powder to the crockpot with the browned beef. Stir everything together until well combined.

Using a whisk can help blend the cream of mushroom soup smoothly into the broth, preventing lumps in your sauce.

Step 3 — Slow Cook the Mixture

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours. The beef will become incredibly tender and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent temperature and cooking time.

Step 4 — Cook the Egg Noodles Separately

About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain well but do not rinse.

Cooking noodles separately prevents them from becoming mushy and absorbing too much liquid in the crockpot.

Step 5 — Add Cheese and Sour Cream

Turn the crockpot to WARM or OFF. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.

For extra creaminess, let the sour cream sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before adding to prevent curdling.

Step 6 — Combine Noodles with Beef Mixture

Gently fold the cooked and drained egg noodles into the cheesy beef mixture until evenly coated. The residual heat will warm the noodles through.

If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of warm beef broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7 — Rest and Serve

Let the Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to settle.

Garnish with fresh parsley or extra shredded cheese for a colorful, appealing presentation.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fat	21g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — A leaner protein option that still provides great flavor while reducing fat content.
• Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Noodles — Swap regular egg noodles for whole wheat for extra fiber or gluten-free pasta for dietary restrictions.
• Zucchini Noodles or Spaghetti Squash — A low-carb alternative that adds vegetables while keeping the dish satisfying.
• Low-Sodium Broth and Soy Sauce — Reduce sodium by using low-sodium versions of these key ingredients without sacrificing taste.
• Greek Yogurt or Dairy-Free Cheese — Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for extra protein, or use dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
• Extra Vegetables — Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to increase nutrients and fiber content in your Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles.
• Lean Sirloin or Plant-Based Ground — Use lean beef cuts or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly twist on this classic comfort dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal
• Serve with garlic bread or crusty dinner rolls to soak up the cheesy sauce
• Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or busy weeknights
• Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for color and freshness
• Add a side of roasted vegetables like carrots or green beans
• Great for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers
• Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy texture

This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles recipe is versatile enough for both casual family meals and entertaining. The creamy, comforting nature makes it ideal for colder weather or whenever you need a satisfying, minimal-effort dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the beef until it’s tough and dry. Fix: Cook on low for 6–7 hours until just fork-tender to keep it juicy.
• Mistake: Adding noodles too early, turning them mushy. Fix: Stir in egg noodles during the last 30 minutes to maintain perfect texture.
• Mistake: Using high-fat ground beef without draining. Fix: Brown and drain excess grease first to prevent a greasy sauce.
• Mistake: Adding cheese at the start, causing it to separate. Fix: Mix in shredded cheese at the end for a smooth, creamy finish.
• Mistake: Skipping the broth or using too little liquid. Fix: Ensure enough broth covers ingredients so noodles cook evenly.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the crockpot with ingredients. Fix: Use a 6-quart or larger slow cooker for proper heat circulation.
• Mistake: Not seasoning adequately, resulting in bland flavor. Fix: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and garlic powder before serving.
• Mistake: Lifting the lid frequently to check progress. Fix: Keep the lid closed to maintain consistent temperature and cooking time.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

For best results, add a splash of broth or water when reheating your Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles to keep the sauce creamy.

Conclusion

This Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles is the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort. For more simple slow cooker dinners, try our Crockpot Pasta e Fagioli Recipe or Chicken Taco Casserole Recipe. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turned out in the comments!

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FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles?

Yes, you can substitute other short pasta shapes like rotini or penne. Just ensure they are added during the last hour of cooking to avoid becoming mushy.

How can I prevent the cheese from clumping in the slow cooker?

Shred your own cheese from a block, as pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly. Stir the cheese in during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking for the best texture in your Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles.

Can I prepare Easy Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles ahead of time?

You can brown the beef and chop vegetables a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine all ingredients in the crockpot the next day to start cooking.