Step 1: Introduction

When it comes to comforting, hearty meals, few dishes can compete with the rich, savory flavors of French onion soup. But what if we took the beloved French onion soup and gave it a twist by adding tender beef stew meat, egg noodles, and creamy dairy? Enter French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup – a cozy, satisfying dish that combines the best of French onion soup with the heartiness of beef and noodles.

This soup is an ideal choice for those seeking a filling, flavorful meal that’s simple to make. It brings together the savory goodness of beef stew meat, the classic French onion soup base, and egg noodles, creating a rich broth that’s perfectly balanced with creamy sour cream and Parmesan cheese. The addition of French fried onions on top adds a delightful crunch that elevates the entire dish. It’s a soup that offers comfort and indulgence in every spoonful.

What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, including a can of French onion soup and beef broth, this dish comes together quickly, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The tender beef, the richness of the broth, and the soft noodles make this soup incredibly comforting, while the layers of flavor from the spices and toppings ensure that each bite is as satisfying as the last.

Step 2: Why This Recipe is Perfect

French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup is perfect for several reasons, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. First, it’s a one-pot dish, which means fewer dishes to clean and a quicker cooking process. The simplicity of the ingredients doesn’t compromise the taste – instead, it ensures that each component has its moment to shine. By using a can of French onion soup, the base is already packed with deep, caramelized onion flavor, which gives the soup its signature taste without requiring hours of preparation.

The beef stew meat, when seared and simmered in the broth, becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, adding richness to the dish. The egg noodles provide a comforting texture that complements the beef, and the sour cream and Parmesan cheese add a creamy, slightly tangy richness that balances out the savory broth. Finally, topping the soup with crispy French fried onions provides an irresistible crunch, offering a delightful contrast to the soft noodles and beef.

This recipe is also highly adaptable. If you don’t have beef stew meat, you can swap it out for ground beef or another cut of beef that suits your preference. The combination of French onion soup and beef broth creates a deep, flavorful base, but you can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family or making a cozy meal for yourself, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy.

Step 3: Ingredients List

To make this rich and satisfying French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

2 Tablespoons Olive Oil – Used to sear the beef and start the flavor base of the soup.
1 Pound Beef Stew Meat – Tender, bite-sized chunks of beef that add a savory depth to the soup.
1 Teaspoon Onion Powder – Enhances the onion flavor and adds depth to the soup.
1 Teaspoon Garlic Powder – Adds a savory, aromatic base to the broth.
Salt & Pepper – To season the beef and broth to taste.
1 (10.5 oz) Can French Onion Soup – This pre-made soup provides a rich, caramelized onion base that is key to the flavor of the soup.
3 Cups Beef Broth – Adds extra depth and richness to the broth, creating a hearty foundation for the soup.
12 Ounces Egg Noodles – Soft noodles that soak up the flavorful broth and add texture to the soup.
½ Cup Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the soup, balancing the richness of the broth.
¼ Cup Parmesan Cheese – Provides a savory, cheesy flavor that complements the sour cream and enhances the broth.
1 Cup French Fried Onions – These crispy onions are used as a garnish, adding a satisfying crunch and an extra layer of flavor to the dish.

Optional Garnishes:

Chopped Parsley or Fresh Thyme – For a fresh pop of color and added flavor.

This simple yet flavorful list of ingredients is all you need to create a delicious and comforting bowl of French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup. With the help of a few pantry staples, you can make this dish in under an hour.

Step 4: Instructions

Here’s how to prepare this comforting soup step by step:

1️⃣ Heat Olive Oil:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil will help sear the beef and create a flavorful base for the soup. Make sure the pot is large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.

2️⃣ Sear the Beef:
Add the beef stew meat to the pot. Season with onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir occasionally as the beef cooks, searing it on all sides for about 3-5 minutes. The beef should be browned and fragrant. This step builds the deep, savory flavor of the soup.

3️⃣ Simmer with Soup and Broth:
Once the beef is seared, pour in the can of French onion soup and beef broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes. The beef will begin to tenderize and soak up the rich flavors from the soup and broth.

4️⃣ Cook the Noodles:
Add the egg noodles to the pot, stirring to ensure they are evenly distributed in the broth. Allow the soup to continue simmering for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The noodles will cook through and absorb the delicious flavors from the broth.

5️⃣ Add Dairy:
Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the sour cream and Parmesan cheese. This will make the soup creamy and add a tangy richness. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup has a smooth, creamy consistency.

6️⃣ Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with French fried onions. The crispy onions add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that elevates the dish. You can also garnish with fresh herbs, such as chopped parsley or thyme, for an extra touch of flavor and color.

This French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup is the perfect combination of savory, creamy, and crunchy, making it a satisfying dish for any occasion. Enjoy it as a hearty dinner on a cold night or serve it as a comforting meal after a long day!

Step 5: Equipment Needed

To make this delicious French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools to ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process. Here’s a list of the equipment required:

Large Pot or Dutch Oven: A large pot or Dutch oven is crucial for this recipe. It gives you enough space to sear the beef, simmer the broth, and cook the noodles without overcrowding. A Dutch oven is particularly ideal because it retains heat well and allows for even cooking. It ensures that the beef becomes tender and that the soup simmers evenly.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: A wooden spoon or spatula is necessary for stirring the beef, broth, and noodles without damaging your cookware. It’s also great for scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot when searing the beef.
Measuring Spoons: Measuring spoons are essential for accurately adding the seasonings, including onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Properly measured spices ensure that the soup has the perfect balance of flavors.
Ladle: A ladle will be helpful for serving the soup into bowls without spilling. Its deep bowl allows you to scoop up generous portions of the hearty beef, noodles, and broth.
Cutting Board and Knife: While this recipe doesn’t require much chopping, you’ll still need a cutting board and a sharp knife to open the French onion soup can and potentially chop fresh herbs if you opt for garnishing with parsley or thyme.
Can Opener: A can opener is essential for opening the can of French onion soup and ensuring you have easy access to the broth base that will infuse the soup with its delicious onion flavor.

These tools ensure that your French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup is easy to prepare and cook while providing the necessary precision for great results.

Step 6: Tips, Swaps, and Variations

This recipe for French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup is versatile and can easily be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Here are some tips, swaps, and variations to consider:

Beef Alternatives: While beef stew meat provides a tender and flavorful base, you can use other cuts of beef, such as chuck roast or ground beef. If using chuck roast, cut it into small cubes and sear it as instructed. Ground beef can also be used, but be sure to cook it fully and drain any excess fat.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian alternative, substitute the beef with mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and opt for a vegetarian-friendly French onion soup (many canned versions contain beef stock).
Noodles Swap: While egg noodles are ideal for this soup, you can swap them with other types of pasta, such as bowtie, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
Cheese Varieties: While Parmesan cheese gives the soup a rich, savory flavor, you can experiment with other types of cheese, such as Gruyère, cheddar, or Swiss, for a different taste. Gruyère, in particular, would be a great choice to enhance the French onion soup flavor.
Add Extra Vegetables: To increase the nutritional value, consider adding vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach. Sauté them with the beef at the beginning for added flavor and texture.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a finely diced jalapeño to the soup. This will provide a subtle spicy kick that complements the savory broth.
Toppings and Garnishes: Don’t hesitate to add extra garnishes, such as fresh thyme, parsley, or crumbled croutons, for added texture and flavor. You can even serve the soup with a slice of garlic bread or a side of crispy roasted potatoes for a complete meal.

Step 7: Storage and Pairings

Storing leftovers and pairing your French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup with complementary side dishes can elevate the meal and make it last longer. Here’s how you can store leftovers and some delicious pairings to try:

Storing Leftovers:

Cool the Soup: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation, which can water down the soup. Refrigerate any leftover soup within 2 hours of cooking for food safety.
Airtight Containers: Store the soup in airtight containers to keep it fresh. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out if it has thickened too much.
Freezing: This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, store the soup in a freezer-safe container and freeze it without the noodles. The noodles can become mushy after freezing, so add them when reheating the soup.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If frozen, let the soup thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pairings:

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Serve with butter or garlic spread for a rich, indulgent combination.
Green Salad: A crisp, light salad with fresh greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the rich, savory flavors of the soup. The freshness of the salad helps balance out the creaminess of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, or cauliflower makes a healthy, flavorful addition to the meal. Their roasted flavors will complement the richness of the beef and soup.
Cheese Toast: A cheesy, toasted slice of bread or grilled cheese sandwich makes a comforting side to the soup. The melted cheese adds another layer of richness that pairs well with the beef and noodles.

By storing your leftovers properly and pairing the soup with complementary sides, you can enjoy this delicious dish throughout the week.

Step 8: FAQs

1. Can I make French Onion Beef and Noodles Soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had more time to meld together. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

2. Can I use ground beef instead of beef stew meat? Yes, ground beef can be used instead of beef stew meat. If you do, brown the beef thoroughly before adding the broth and soup, then continue with the rest of the recipe as directed.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the beef first in a skillet, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-7 hours, and add the noodles in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

4. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! You can use other pasta shapes like rotini, penne, or gluten-free pasta. Be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta used.

5. Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup can be frozen, though it’s best to freeze it without the noodles. Noodles can become mushy after freezing, so cook them fresh when reheating the soup.

6. Can I make this soup vegetarian? For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and ensure that the French onion soup is vegetarian-friendly.

7. How can I make this soup spicier? If you like your soup with a little heat, add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a chopped jalapeño when simmering the soup. Adjust the level of spice to your preference.

8. What’s the best way to garnish this soup? This soup is delicious with a crunchy topping of French fried onions, but you can also garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or even a drizzle of heavy cream would also enhance the richness of the soup.

French onion beef and noodles Soup