Preheat oven to 250 degrees.

Heat oil in dutch oven on high heat for about 1 minute.

Add half of the stew meat and brown lightly for about 2 minutes. Remove from pan.

Add second half of the stew meat and brown lightly for about 2 minutes.

Return first half of meat to pan; stir in broth, onion soup mix, thyme, and bay leaves.

Cover dutch oven and place in preheated oven. Cook in oven for 3-4 hours or until stew meat is fork-tender.

Cook noodles according to package directions.

Remove beef from oven, remove bay leaves, and stir in cooked noodles. Serve immediately over mashed potatoes or on their own.