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### Instructions
**Step 1: Brown the Beef**
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef stew meat or chuck pieces in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Brown the beef on all sides for about 4-5 minutes, then remove it from the pot and set it aside. This step locks in the flavor and gives the beef a nice sear.
**Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic**
In the same pot, add the thinly sliced onions and cook them over medium heat. Stir occasionally and let them caramelize for about 8-10 minutes until they turn golden brown and soft. This slow cooking process will bring out the natural sweetness of the onions. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
**Step 3: Deglaze the Pot**
Once the onions are caramelized, pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pot, scraping up any brown bits left on the bottom of the pan. This adds tons of flavor to your dish. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and bay leaf. Add the browned beef back into the pot, stirring to combine.
**Step 4: Cook the Noodles**
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the egg noodles (or pasta of your choice) directly into the pot. Stir everything together so the noodles are submerged in the liquid. Cover and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and have absorbed some of the flavorful broth.
**Step 5: Make the Sauce Creamy**
Once the noodles are cooked, reduce the heat to low. In a small bowl, whisk the flour with a couple of tablespoons of water or broth to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the pot, stirring constantly. This will help thicken the sauce. After 3-4 minutes, add the heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
**Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning**
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the mixture for a few more minutes. Once the sauce is creamy and flavorful, remove the bay leaf and discard it.
**Step 7: Serve and Garnish**
Serve the French Onion Beef and Noodles hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top.
### Tips and Variations
– **Meat Options:** While beef stew meat or chuck works well in this dish, you can also use ground beef or even sliced flank steak. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if you use a different cut of meat.
– **Noodles:** Egg noodles are the classic choice for this dish, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer, such as wide noodles, pappardelle, or even penne. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the pasta shape.
– **Make it a One-Pot Meal:** If you’re short on time, you can cook the noodles separately and simply add them to the sauce at the end. This will save some time but still give you that wonderful French onion beef flavor.
– **Vegan/Vegetarian Version:** To make this dish vegetarian, you can substitute the beef with mushrooms or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and opt for a plant-based cream for the sauce.
– **Freezer-Friendly:** Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months. Just be sure to store it in a freezer-safe container.
### Why You’ll Love French Onion Beef and Noodles
**French Onion Beef and Noodles** brings together the best of both worlds – the hearty, savory flavor of beef and the rich, caramelized sweetness of French onion soup, all wrapped up in a creamy, satisfying sauce. The caramelized onions add depth to the dish, while the beef gives it a comforting, satisfying bite. The egg noodles soak up all the flavors, making each bite an irresistible combination of tenderness and richness.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a cozy dinner, or just in need of a delicious, easy meal, this dish is guaranteed to hit the spot. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion and a great way to enjoy the flavors of French onion soup in a new, exciting way!
**Enjoy your cozy, flavorful meal!**
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