French Onion Beef and Noodles Recipe

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Cook Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 pound beef stew meat
• 1 1/2 cups thinly sliced sweet onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (32-ounce) carton lower sodium beef broth
• 1 (10 1/2-ounce) can condensed French onion soup
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2/3 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 (12-ounce) package wide or medium egg noodles
• 1 (2.8-ounce) can French-fried onions
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Directions:

Step 1: Gather all ingredients. Prepare them for use as you will be adding them in specific steps during the cooking process.

Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a 4- to 5-quart Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is well-browned on all sides. Once browned, transfer the meat to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the Dutch oven. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic, cooking over medium heat for about 6 minutes or until the onion is tender and starting to brown. Stir frequently. If necessary, add a splash of the beef broth to loosen any browned bits at the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Once the onions and garlic are ready, return the browned beef to the pot. Add the remaining beef broth, French onion soup, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Cover and let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.

Step 5: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Take about 1/2 cup of the hot broth from the Dutch oven and stir it into the sour cream mixture to temper it. Once combined, return the sour cream mixture back to the pot, stirring to incorporate.

Step 6: Add the egg noodles to the Dutch oven. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles and beef are tender and fully cooked.

Step 7: Once the noodles are cooked, remove from heat and stir everything well. Serve the dish topped with French-fried onions and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a flavorful finish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 471
• Fat: 23g (30% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 8g (40% DV)
• Cholesterol: 117mg (39% DV)
• Sodium: 536mg (23% DV)
• Carbohydrates: 31g (11% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% DV)
• Total Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 34g (68% DV)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (4% DV)
• Calcium: 168mg (13% DV)
• Iron: 4mg (21% DV)
• Potassium: 465mg (10% DV)

History and Origins of French Onion Beef and Noodles

French Onion Beef and Noodles is a hearty dish that blends the rich flavors of French onion soup with tender beef and egg noodles, creating a comforting casserole-like meal. The recipe is inspired by traditional French onion soup, which dates back to the 18th century in France. Originally, this soup was a simple peasant dish made from onions, beef broth, and stale bread, slowly caramelized to develop deep flavor. The adaptation to include beef and noodles is an American innovation, reflecting the country's love for one-pot meals and creamy, filling dishes.

Regional Characteristics

This dish is particularly popular in Midwestern and Northeastern regions of the United States, where hearty, family-friendly meals are a staple. The use of condensed French onion soup mix became widespread in the mid-20th century, making it convenient for home cooks to prepare a French-inspired dish without extensive preparation. Regional variations often include the addition of sour cream or cream cheese to create a richer sauce and the use of wide egg noodles or even pasta twists, depending on local preferences.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While French Onion Beef and Noodles shares similarities with beef stroganoff and traditional French onion soup, it is distinct in several ways. Unlike classic stroganoff, which typically uses a sour cream-based sauce with mushrooms, this dish relies heavily on the sweet, caramelized flavor of onions and condensed soup for its depth. Compared to French onion soup, the inclusion of noodles and tender chunks of beef transforms it from a light appetizer to a filling main course. The crispy French-fried onions on top provide a texture contrast not found in its predecessors.

Common Serving Occasions

This dish is often served as a family dinner, holiday meal, or casual gathering where comfort food is desired. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. Some households even serve it in a buffet-style setting during potlucks, as it is easy to prepare in large quantities and reheats well. The creamy sauce and savory beef make it particularly popular during colder months, offering warmth and satisfaction.

Interesting Facts

• French Onion Beef and Noodles became popular in American home cooking during the 1960s and 1970s with the rise of convenience foods like canned soups.
• The dish is a perfect example of fusion cuisine, taking a classic French soup and transforming it into an American comfort food casserole.
• Using French-fried onions on top adds both a crunchy texture and a visually appealing golden finish, which distinguishes it from other noodle-based casseroles.
• While traditionally made with beef stew meat, some variations use ground beef, ribeye, or even leftover roast, showcasing the dishs flexibility.
• The combination of onions, beef, and sour cream creates a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, making it irresistible to both adults and children alike.

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