Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff

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Introduction

Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender beef with a creamy, rich sauce for a meal that feels both indulgent and satisfying. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen. Let your slow cooker do all the work while the beef simmers in a savory blend of seasonings and mushrooms, creating the perfect sauce to pair with pasta or rice.

I first discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week and found it to be a total lifesaver. The long, slow cook time made the beef incredibly tender and infused the sauce with deep flavors. Every bite felt like a warm embrace, perfect for cozy nights at home. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal shared with friends, Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff is one of those dishes that feels like a comforting classic.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and versatility. You can add additional vegetables, adjust the seasonings to your liking, or serve it with any starch you prefer. It’s easy to scale up for larger gatherings and makes fantastic leftovers. This beef stroganoff is the kind of dish that once you try it, you’ll want to make over and over—it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser!

Perfect For

This dish is ideal for busy nights when you want something warm and comforting without spending much time in the kitchen. It’s also perfect for dinner parties, as the slow cooker allows you to prepare it in advance and serve it with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Tender Beef: Slow cooking makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender.
  • Rich and Creamy: The mushroom sauce with sour cream and seasonings creates a luxurious, silky texture.
  • Hands-off Cooking: You simply prepare the ingredients, add them to the slow cooker, and let it do the work.
  • Family Favorite: This dish is hearty and satisfying, appealing to both adults and children alike.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
  • Total Time: 6-7 hours
  • Servings: 6
  • Calories Per Serving: Approximately 400 calories
  • Key Nutrients Per Serving:
    • Protein: 33g
    • Carbohydrates: 20g
    • Fat: 25g
    • Fiber: 2g
    • Vitamin A: 6% DV
    • Calcium: 5% DV

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into cubes
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
  • 1 packet onion soup mix
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cups egg noodles or your choice of pasta or rice

Ingredient Highlights

  • Beef Stew Meat or Chuck Roast: These cuts are perfect for slow cooking, becoming tender and flavorful after hours of cooking.
  • Mushroom Soup: Provides a creamy and flavorful base for the sauce, blending perfectly with the beef.
  • Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness of the dish.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Brings depth of flavor and umami to the broth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Slow Cooker:

  1. In the bottom of the slow cooker, add the beef cubes, chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, mushroom soup, onion soup mix, dried thyme, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine all ingredients.
  2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Slow Cook:

  1. Cover the slow cooker and cook the beef mixture on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Finish the Dish:

  1. About 15 minutes before serving, cook your pasta or rice according to package instructions.
  2. Stir the sour cream into the beef mixture, and continue to cook for another 15 minutes until the sauce is creamy and heated through.

Serve:

  1. Spoon the creamy beef stroganoff over your choice of noodles or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Serve

Serve Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff with your choice of cooked pasta or rice for a complete meal. A side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad complements the rich flavors of the dish beautifully.

Additional Tips

  • Make It Healthier: Use lean beef cuts or substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter version.
  • Add Vegetables: Try adding sliced mushrooms to enhance the mushroom flavor and texture of the sauce.
  • Thicker Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water, then stirring it into the slow cooker and letting it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Recipe Variations

  • Mushroom Lovers:
    • For a more intense mushroom flavor and heartier texture, consider adding more mushrooms to your dish. You can either increase the amount of mushrooms or add a variety such as cremini, shiitake, or portobello for even more depth. Sautéing the mushrooms before adding them to the slow cooker will enhance their flavor, giving your dish a richer, umami-packed taste. If you’re a fan of mushrooms, you can even add a mix of dried and fresh mushrooms for an added level of texture and flavor complexity.
  • Spicy Kick:
    • If you enjoy a bit of spice in your meals, stir in some hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or fresh chopped chili peppers to give the dish an extra heat factor. Start by adding a small amount and adjusting to taste as you go, as this will allow you to control the intensity of the heat. Whether you prefer a milder warmth or a bold kick, these spicy additions will balance the richness of the dish and add an exciting layer of flavor. You could also experiment with spicy barbecue sauces or salsa for a fusion twist.
  • Vegetarian:
    • To create a delicious vegetarian version of the dish, swap out the beef for mushroom slices or plant-based beef crumbles. Mushrooms, especially varieties like portobello or cremini, can stand in for meat by providing a meaty texture and earthy flavor. Alternatively, you could use lentils, chickpeas, or even tofu as a protein source. These options will keep your dish filling and flavorful while adhering to vegetarian or plant-based diets. Add extra herbs or spices, like thyme or garlic, to further enhance the flavor profile of the vegetarian version.

Freezing and Storage

  • Leftovers:
    • After enjoying your beef stroganoff, store any leftover portions in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This will keep the dish refrigerated for up to 3 days. When storing leftovers, make sure the beef stroganoff has cooled to room temperature before sealing it in the container to avoid condensation, which could affect the texture of the dish. If reheating, the dish can easily be warmed in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to help restore its creamy consistency if it thickens during storage.
  • Freezing:
    • Beef stroganoff is an excellent dish for making ahead and freezing. To do so, let the beef stroganoff cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. For the best results, it’s recommended to freeze the beef and sauce without pasta or rice to maintain the best texture. You can freeze the dish for up to 2-3 months. When you are ready to enjoy the dish again, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it by simmering on the stovetop over low to medium heat. If the sauce has thickened too much during freezing, add a bit of broth, water, or cream to help regain its smooth consistency and bring the dish back to life.

Special Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Pan for browning (optional, if you wish to brown beef before adding to slow cooker)

FAQ Section

Q: Can I make this on the stovetop instead of the slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can simmer the beef on the stovetop. Brown the beef first, then simmer with the remaining ingredients for about 1 hour until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Q: Can I use another type of meat?
A: Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken or even turkey for a leaner option, but the cooking times may differ slightly.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare everything in the slow cooker the day before, refrigerate it overnight, and cook it the following day. This can help enhance the flavors.

Conclusion

Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a savory and comforting dish that combines tender beef, rich mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, making it perfect for any cozy meal. With the ease of a slow cooker, the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender while the flavors meld together wonderfully. It’s a great option for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or anytime you’re craving a delicious, hearty dish.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences. Feel free to use different cuts of beef, add extra vegetables, or adjust the seasoning to your liking. Serve over rice, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

Make it today and experience the warm, savory flavors that will fill your home. Don’t forget to take a photo of your creation and share it on social media—tag me so I can admire your delicious effort. Happy cooking!

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