Ground Beef And Noodle Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Noodle Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 8 oz egg noodles; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 1 cup frozen peas; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon soy sauce

Highlighted under: Home Planning

I absolutely love making this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet for dinner because it’s a true weeknight lifesaver. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for busy evenings when we want something satisfying yet easy to whip up. The combination of savory ground beef, perfectly cooked noodles, and a rich sauce makes this dish incredibly comforting. Plus, it’s all done in one skillet, which means less cleanup. I can have a delicious homemade meal on the table in just over half an hour!

Created by

Portia Langford

Last updated on 2026-01-24T10:53:34.231Z

Cooking this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet has become a ritual in my household, especially when time is tight but I still want to impress. The first time I made it, I was delighted by how quickly the flavors melded together. Sautéing the beef with garlic and onion really enhances the depth of flavor while the noodles soak up the savory sauce.

I often experiment with different vegetables, adding whatever I have on hand, like bell peppers or spinach. This way, I can customize it to our preferences and sneak in some extra nutrition, without compromising on the dish's hearty goodness.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Flavorful comfort food ready in 30 minutes
Customizable with your favorite vegetables

The Foundation of Flavor

The base of this Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet relies heavily on the aromatic combination of onions and garlic. Cooking the chopped onions and minced garlic in olive oil until they're translucent not only infuses the oil with flavor but also sets the stage for the ground beef. Aim for a slight golden color on the edges of the onions before adding the meat; this will enhance the overall depth of the dish.

Using quality ground beef is essential for achieving the desired texture and flavor. Opt for a lean ground beef to avoid excessive grease, but don't go too lean; a bit of fat helps maintain moisture during cooking. For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce along with the soy sauce, which can deepen the savory notes in the dish.

Noodles: Timing and Technique

When adding the egg noodles to the skillet, it's crucial to monitor their cooking time carefully. While most egg noodles typically require around 10 minutes to cook, the actual timing can vary slightly based on brand and thickness. Stirring occasionally will help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. You'll know they’re ready when they've swelled and softened but still maintain a slight bite—al dente texture is ideal in this skillet.

If you're looking to customize the dish, consider incorporating other types of pasta, like fusilli or penne, as a substitute for egg noodles. Just be mindful of the cooking time adjustments these alternatives may require. If you have leftover noodles from another dish, add them during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through and absorb the flavors.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Ground Beef and Noodle Skillet can be a fantastic make-ahead meal. Once fully cooked, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to maintain moisture and avoid dryness in the noodles.

Consider serving this dish with a side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a vibrant touch and enhance the flavors of the dish. If you enjoy a bit of spice, feel free to incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha into the mixture, enriching the savory flavor with a spicy kick.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
8 oz egg noodles
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 cup frozen peas
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon soy sauce

Instructions

Cook the Meat

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Add the ground beef and brown it, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully cooked.

Add the Noodles

Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then add the egg noodles. Reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes or until noodles are cooked, stirring occasionally.

Finish the Skillet

Once the noodles are tender, stir in the frozen peas and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow everything to cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some grated cheese atop the skillet just before serving. It gives a creamy finish that complements the beef beautifully!

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped for the ground beef for a lighter option. Both alternatives provide a satisfying meal while significantly reducing the fat content. Just ensure to season accordingly, as poultry tends to be milder in flavor. Adding a bit more soy sauce or some dried herbs can enhance the overall taste.

For a vegetarian variation, textured vegetable protein (TVP) or crumbled tempeh can be excellent substitutes. These not only mimic the texture of ground beef but also absorb flavors beautifully. You may need to adjust the amount of broth to prevent the dish from becoming too dry with these substitutes.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that the dish is too salty after adding the soy sauce, try incorporating a teaspoon of sugar to balance the flavors. Additionally, serving it with a dollop of plain yogurt can help cut through the saltiness and add a creamy element.

Should the noodles become mushy, this often indicates they have been overcooked. To prevent this in your next attempt, always follow the package instructions closely and taste testing as they cook is key. If this happens again, you can mix in extra vegetables to absorb some moisture and add texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative.

→ What can I add for extra flavor?

Feel free to add spices like Italian seasoning or paprika for an extra kick.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture in advance and add the noodles just before serving.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.