Tired of searching for easy slow cooker dinner recipes? This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff offers a comforting classic with minimal effort. You’ll love how simple it is to achieve rich, tender beef and a creamy sauce without standing over the stove.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Beef Stew Meat: You can also use chuck roast cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Mushrooms: White button or cremini mushrooms work best.
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Use a low-sodium version if preferred.
- Sour Cream: Light sour cream is an option for a slightly lighter dish.
- Egg Noodles: Serve over wide egg noodles or rice.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10.75 ounces can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 8 ounces sour cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 4-6 hours on high, 6-8 hours on low
- Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes – 8 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories (without noodles)
- Tools needed: 6-quart slow cooker
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef
Pat the beef stew meat dry with paper towels. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches until it’s seared on all sides, then transfer it to your slow cooker.
2. Sauté Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic for another minute until fragrant. Transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker with the beef.
3. Add Remaining Ingredients (Except Sour Cream)
Pour in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper into the slow cooker. Stir everything together to combine. Add the sliced mushrooms on top.
4. Cook Until Tender
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. The beef should be incredibly tender and easily shred with a fork.
5. Stir in Sour Cream
Once the beef is tender, turn off the slow cooker or switch it to the “warm” setting. Stir in the sour cream until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce is creamy. Avoid cooking the sour cream on high heat, as it can curdle.
6. Serve and Garnish
Serve your Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff hot over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired for a touch of freshness.
Variation Ideas:
- Add vegetables: Include a cup of frozen peas or green beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and serve over gluten-free noodles or rice.
Storage Instructions:
Store leftover Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of beef broth to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can you put raw beef in a slow cooker for stroganoff?
Yes, you can put raw beef directly into the slow cooker, but browning it first adds a deeper flavor.
Why is my slow cooker beef stroganoff bland?
Ensure you’re using enough seasoning; a good beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are key for depth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
What kind of beef is best for slow cooker beef stroganoff?
Beef stew meat or chuck roast are ideal as they become very tender during the slow cooking process.
Can you freeze slow cooker beef stroganoff?
Yes, you can freeze it. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How do you prevent sour cream from curdling in stroganoff?
Stir the sour cream in *after* the cooking is complete and the slow cooker is off or on “warm.” Do not cook it at a high temperature.
What can you serve with slow cooker beef stroganoff besides noodles?
It’s delicious served over rice, mashed potatoes, or even alongside steamed vegetables.