Are you ready to impress your family with a warm, hearty meal? My Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a simple, tasty dish that makes dinner effortless. With just a few main ingredients and a slow cooker, you can create a creamy, savory sauce that will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s dive into this easy recipe and bring classic comfort food to your table!

Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup sour cream
– Salt to taste
– 1 package egg noodles, for serving
The heart of this dish is the beef. Chuck roast works best as it becomes really tender. The onion and garlic bring flavor. Mushrooms add a nice earthiness that balances the dish. Beef broth gives depth, while Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard add a slight zing. Thyme and black pepper enhance the taste, and sour cream creates creaminess. Finally, the egg noodles serve as a perfect base for the stroganoff.
Optional Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce if you want it richer. Fresh parsley adds color and freshness on top.
Equipment Needed
– Slow cooker
– Skillet
– Cutting board and knife
You need a slow cooker to make this dish easy and hands-off. A skillet is great for searing the beef and cooking the veggies. A cutting board and knife help you prep all your ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Beef
Start by cutting your beef chuck roast into 1-inch cubes. This size helps it cook evenly. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes. Sear them until they are browned on all sides. This step adds a rich flavor. After browning, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook these for about 3 minutes until they are translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for another 3-4 minutes until they are soft. This will bring out their natural sweetness. Once done, add the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker with the beef.
Combining and Cooking in the Slow Cooker
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, then add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You want the beef to be nice and tender. If you want a thicker sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with some cold water to make a slurry. Stir this into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving. Just before serving, mix in 1 cup of sour cream for creaminess. Adjust the salt to taste.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Right Cut of Beef
For beef stroganoff, I prefer beef chuck roast. This cut is tender and flavorful. It has enough fat to stay juicy during slow cooking. Other good options include brisket or round steak. These cuts will also work well and give you a rich taste.
Thickening the Sauce
To thicken the sauce, you can use cornstarch. Mix two tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water. This makes a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker about 30 minutes before serving. This will give your sauce a nice, thick texture.
Serving Suggestions
When serving, place the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles. This helps soak up the sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color. You can also serve crusty bread on the side. This is great for dipping into the sauce. Enjoy your meal!
Variations
Alternative Ingredients
You can use different cuts of meat for beef stroganoff. Cuts like sirloin or brisket work well. These cuts can give you a unique flavor and texture. If you want a lighter dish, try vegetarian options. You can use mushrooms, tempeh, or lentils instead of beef. These ingredients soak up the flavors and create a hearty meal.
Flavor Enhancements
To make your stroganoff even tastier, add more spices. A pinch of paprika gives warmth. Try adding a dash of garlic powder for extra zing. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can brighten your dish. You can also add a splash of red wine for depth. These enhancements make your stroganoff stand out.
Serving Style Modifications
Serving beef stroganoff over egg noodles is classic, but you can mix it up. Try serving it with fluffy rice for a different texture. Mashed potatoes are another great option. They hold the sauce well and add comfort. You can also serve it with crusty bread. This helps soak up the tasty sauce and makes every bite delicious.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, let the beef stroganoff cool down first. Transfer it to an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. It can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. When ready to eat, check for any off smells or changes in color.
Freezing
If you want to freeze beef stroganoff, use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top for expansion. It can freeze well for up to 3 months. Make sure to label your container with the date. This helps you keep track of how long it’s been in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, you have a few options. The best way is on the stove. Put it in a pot over low heat. Stir it often to prevent it from sticking or drying out. You can add a splash of beef broth or water for moisture. Microwaving works too. Use a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely to keep the steam in. Heat it in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps the beef tender and creamy.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without sour cream?
Yes, you can make beef stroganoff without sour cream. If you want to skip it, use plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese instead. Both will add creaminess and flavor. You can also try a mix of milk and cornstarch for a lighter option. This will keep your dish rich and tasty.
How can I make this recipe quicker?
To make this beef stroganoff faster, use a pressure cooker instead of a slow cooker. Cook on high for about 45 minutes. Another option is to cut the beef into smaller pieces. Smaller chunks cook faster. You can also skip browning the beef first. This saves time, but browning adds flavor.
What can I serve with beef stroganoff?
Beef stroganoff pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some great options:
– Egg noodles (the classic choice)
– Mashed potatoes
– Rice
– Crusty bread for dipping
– Steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli
These sides enhance the meal and soak up the savory sauce. Enjoy!
In this post, I covered the key ingredients and steps for making beef stroganoff. You saw how to choose the right beef and the importance of sautéing vegetables. I shared tips for thickening sauces and how to serve this dish. Remember, you can play with different cuts of meat or flavors to make it your own. Enjoy experimenting with your version of beef stroganoff, and don’t forget to store leftovers safely for future meals!
