When you think of comfort food, images of cozy nights curled up on the couch with a hearty meal often come to mind. Enter Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff: tender beef swimming in a rich, creamy sauce that makes your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. The aroma wafting through your home will have your family and friends running to the kitchen faster than you can say “dinner is served!” For more inspiration, check out this Amish Country Casserole recipe.
I still remember the first time I made Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff. It was one of those gloomy Mondays when even the sun seemed to be taking a day off. As I entered my chilly kitchen, I was determined to create something that would not only warm me up but also lift my spirits. Little did I know, this dish would soon become a staple in our household, reserved for cozy family gatherings and those “I-need-comfort” evenings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff is incredibly easy to prepare—just toss everything in and let it do its magic.
- The flavor profile is rich and creamy, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
- Visually, it’s as appealing as it is delicious, with its luscious sauce and tender beef pieces.
- You can serve it over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a delightful twist!
Ingredients for Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Stew Meat: Look for well-marbled chunks of beef; they will turn extra tender during cooking.
- Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; chop it finely for even flavor distribution.
- Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms bring an earthy flavor; button or cremini work best.
- Garlic: Don’t skimp on fresh garlic—it enhances the dish’s overall aroma and flavor.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it forms the base of your sauce.
For the Sauce:
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tanginess; make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Flour: This helps thicken your sauce; you can use gluten-free flour if necessary.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A splash adds umami richness—consider it the secret ingredient!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the onion and garlic, slice the mushrooms, and cut the beef into bite-sized pieces if needed.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil. When hot, add the beef stew meat. Southwest ground beef skillet Sear until browned on all sides—don’t worry about cooking it through!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned beef into your slow cooker. Add chopped onions, sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
Cover and set your slow cooker on low for about 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours. Just let it simmer away while you binge-watch your favorite show!
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
About half an hour before serving, stir in flour mixed with sour cream until smooth. Cook uncovered until thickened; this will elevate your sauce to heavenly status!
Step 6: Serve It Up!
Spoon over egg noodles or rice for a satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh parsley for that Instagram-worthy touch!
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy every creamy bite of this comfort food classic!
You Must Know
- This Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff not only delivers a rich and creamy flavor but also simplifies dinner prep.
- Toss the ingredients in, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you enjoy your day.
- It’s the ultimate comfort food for busy nights!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef to lock in those savory flavors. Then, layer in your mushrooms and onions before adding broth and seasonings. As everything simmers away, you can prepare your noodles for a perfect pairing with this delightful dish.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beef for chicken or even turkey if you’re looking for a lighter option. Add some garlic or Worcestershire sauce for an extra kick. Lemon garlic butter chicken You can also toss in some veggies like spinach or peas to sneak in more nutrients!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or microwave until heated through. Just be ready for that delicious aroma to fill your kitchen again!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff, browning the meat first adds depth to the flavor, so don’t skip it!
- Always adjust seasoning after cooking; flavors deepen as they meld.
- And remember, a splash of sour cream at the end elevates creaminess.
Sometimes I whip up this Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff when friends come over, and their eyes light up with joy as they take their first bite. Nothing beats that satisfied smile!
FAQs :
What is Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff?
Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a comforting dish made with tender beef, mushrooms, onions, and a rich sour cream sauce. This recipe utilizes a slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours. Chicken and rice casserole The beef becomes incredibly tender while absorbing the savory and creamy sauce. It’s often served over noodles or rice, making it a satisfying meal for family gatherings or weeknight dinners.
How long does it take to cook Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff?
Cooking Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff typically takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or around 3 to 4 hours on high. The longer cooking time allows the beef to become fork-tender and lets the flavors develop fully. It’s ideal to plan ahead so that you can enjoy this hearty dish at its best. Remember to check for doneness before serving, ensuring that the beef is cooked thoroughly.
Can I make Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff without sour cream?
Yes, you can make Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff without sour cream if you prefer a lighter version or need a dairy-free option. Instead of sour cream, consider using coconut cream or cashew cream for a similar creamy texture. You can also add a splash of lemon juice for acidity and flavor enhancement. This variation will still give you a delicious meal while accommodating dietary preferences.
What can I serve with Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff?
Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Traditional options include egg noodles or mashed potatoes, which soak up the rich sauce. For a healthier choice, serve it over steamed rice or quinoa. Additionally, a side salad or roasted vegetables complements the dish well, adding freshness and balance to your meal experience.
Conclusion for Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff :
Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make it perfect for any occasion. Its tender beef and creamy sauce create an irresistible dish that your family will love. With simple ingredients and easy preparation in a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without much hassle. Slow cooker nacho soup Whether served over noodles or rice, this comfort food staple guarantees satisfaction at the dining table. Enjoy your cooking!
Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce that simmers to perfection. This easy-to-make dish fills your home with mouthwatering aromas and is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Served over egg noodles or rice, it’s a satisfying meal that requires minimal preparation while delivering maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream (room temperature)
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour)
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping the onion and garlic, slicing the mushrooms, and cutting the beef into bite-sized pieces if necessary.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil and brown the beef stew meat on all sides.
- Transfer the browned beef to the slow cooker and add onions, mushrooms, garlic, broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, mix flour with sour cream until smooth; stir into the slow cooker. Cook uncovered until thickened.
- Serve over egg noodles or rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 387
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 682mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 79mg
