Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Looking for a hearty, comforting meal that practically cooks itself? This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff recipe delivers exactly that! This is a rich, creamy, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming humble ingredients into a culinary masterpiece.

What is Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff?

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a simplified and convenient take on the classic beef stroganoff. It’s a dish that combines tender, slow-cooked beef with a creamy, luscious sauce typically made from sour cream, mushrooms, and seasonings. What sets this version apart is the slow cooker method, which allows the beef to become incredibly tender and absorb all the delicious flavors over several hours.

Unlike traditional methods that require constant attention on the stovetop, the slow cooker allows you to set it and forget it, freeing up your time while a restaurant-quality meal simmers away. The result is a comforting, satisfying dish that’s much easier to prepare and requires minimal effort. The creamy, tangy sauce, complements the savory beef perfectly, making it a family favorite. Ready to experience the ease and flavor of this delightful dish? Grab your slow cooker and let’s get started!

Key Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff:

• 2 lbs Beef Chuck Roast: Cut into 1-inch cubes. Look for a roast with good marbling for the most tender and flavorful result.
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil: For searing the beef. You can also use vegetable oil.
• 1 medium Yellow Onion: Chopped. Adds a foundational aromatic base.
• 8 oz Cremini Mushrooms: Sliced. Adds an earthy and savory element.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced. Provides a pungent and essential flavor boost.
• 1 (10.75 oz) can Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: Provides creaminess and acts as a binder for the sauce. Can be reduced sodium.
• 1 cup Beef Broth: Low sodium is best. Adds moisture and enhances the beef flavor.
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a savory umami depth.
• 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and complexity to the sauce.
• 1 tsp Dried Thyme: Adds an herbaceous note.
• 1/2 tsp Black Pepper: Freshly ground is best.
• 1/2 tsp Salt: Or more, to taste. Adjust according to preference.
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream: Added at the end for creaminess and tang. Full-fat sour cream is recommended for the best texture. Can use light sour cream.
• 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour: (Optional) To thicken the sauce at the end if needed. Whisk with a bit of cold water before adding.
• Cooked Egg Noodles: For serving. About 1 pound of dried noodles.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish. Adds freshness and visual appeal.

How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff:

This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is surprisingly easy, taking about 20 minutes of prep time before the magic happens in the slow cooker. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef in a creamy, flavorful sauce, all without slaving over the stove. Its a simple, tasty and creamy dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). Searing enhances the flavor and adds depth to the dish. Transfer the seared beef to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker: Transfer the sautéed onion, mushrooms, and garlic to the slow cooker with the seared beef. Add the condensed cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Slow Cook: Stir everything together to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until beef is very tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5. Thicken (optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, in the last 30 minutes whisk together flour and cold water. Stir into the slow cooker and let it cook for another 15-20 minutes until the sauce has thickened.
6. Add Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream just before serving. Do not add the sour cream while the mixture is cooking, as it may curdle.
7. Serve: Serve the Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff over warm cooked egg noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a winner for so many reasons. The best part is the incredibly tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that results from slow cooking. It truly is the highlight of the dish! Making this at home saves you a lot of money compared to ordering it at a restaurant, plus you control the quality of ingredients.

Finally, the combination of the creamy, tangy sauce, the savory beef, and the freshness of the parsley garnish makes it a truly special dish. For a spicier twist, try another popular recipe, like Slow Cooker Chili. Give this one a try and see how easy it is to make a comforting and delicious meal right at home!

What to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff With:

• Egg Noodles: The classic accompaniment to beef stroganoff.
• Mashed Potatoes: A great alternative for a comforting side.
• Steamed Green Beans: A simple and healthy side dish to balance the richness of the stroganoff.
• Crusty Bread: For soaking up the delicious sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a light and refreshing contrast.

Top Tips for Perfecting Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff:

• Don’t skip the searing: Searing the beef adds a depth of flavor that you won’t get otherwise.
• Use a good quality beef broth: This will really enhance the flavor.
• Add the sour cream at the end: Adding it too early can cause it to curdle.
• Adjust seasonings to your liking: Taste the sauce and add more salt, pepper, or other spices as needed.
• If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute the beef broth with red wine or beef stock.
• If you are missing an ingredient: You can generally substitute the onions with shallots.

5 Facts about Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff:

1. Origin: Beef Stroganoff is believed to have originated in Russia in the mid-19th century, named after the Stroganov family. The dish has evolved over time, with variations found across different cultures.
2. Key Ingredient Evolution: While traditionally made with sour cream, modern variations often include additions like mushrooms and mustard for enhanced flavor.
3. Slow Cooker Adaptation: Adapting the recipe for a slow cooker provides a convenient, hands-free method that ensures the beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful.
4. Global Popularity: Beef Stroganoff has become a popular dish worldwide, appreciated for its rich, creamy texture and savory flavor.
5. Versatile Serving Options: It can be served with various sides, including egg noodles, rice, mashed potatoes, and even crusty bread, making it a versatile dish for different tastes.

Storing and Reheating Tips:

• Storing Leftovers: Allow the stroganoff to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the stroganoff in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the stroganoff in a saucepan over medium heat. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed to prevent sticking. Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Do not boil, as this can cause the sour cream to curdle. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be sure to stir every minute or so to ensure even heating.

Final Thoughts:

This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food with minimal effort. Its rich flavor and tender beef make it a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. With easy preparation and readily available ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. Make sure to follow the tips for the perfect results, and don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings and side dishes. Enjoy!

Try also : Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake Recipe and find more in pinterest

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff FAQs:

• Can I use a different cut of beef? While chuck roast is ideal because it becomes very tender when slow-cooked, you can also use sirloin or round steak. Just be sure to cut it into smaller pieces.
• Can I use canned mushrooms? Yes, you can use canned mushrooms if you don’t have fresh ones. Just be sure to drain them well before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Can I make this recipe without sour cream? While sour cream is a key ingredient, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a similar tang and creaminess.
• My sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it? If your sauce is too thin, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the stroganoff during the last 30 minutes of cooking to thicken the sauce.
• Can I add wine to this recipe? Yes, adding red wine to the recipe can enhance the flavor. Add 1/2 cup of dry red wine along with the beef broth for a richer, deeper flavor.