Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
The first time I made Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff, it was a chilly winter evening, and I wanted something warm and comforting for dinner. The thought of tender beef simmered in a creamy sauce over egg noodles was irresistible. As the aroma filled my kitchen, I could already envision sitting down with my family, sharing stories, and enjoying a hearty meal together. This dish has since become one of our favorites, perfect for those long days when you need something delicious without a lot of fuss. The beauty of it lies in how simple it is to prepare, yet it tastes like it took hours to make.
Recipe Snapshot
7 hr 35 mins
15 mins
440 mins
Hard
450 kcal
33 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
20 g
6-quart slow cooker
What Sets This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Apart
Comforting and Hearty
One of the main reasons I absolutely love Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is its comforting nature. The combination of tender beef, rich sauce, and soft noodles wraps you in warmth with every bite. It’s like a hug in a bowl.
Effortless Cooking
Throwing everything into the slow cooker and letting it do its magic is truly a game-changer. I appreciate meals that allow me to walk away and tend to other things while the cooking happens in the background.
Versatile Ingredients
The ingredients in Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff are versatile too. You can easily adjust the flavors, try different types of beef, or even throw in some veggies if you’re feeling adventurous. This dish accommodates your personal preferences beautifully.
Perfect for Gatherings
Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is always a hit. Just imagine serving a big pot of Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff at your next get-together, inviting everyone to dig in and enjoy together.
Leftover Bliss
The leftovers are just as delightful, if not more so. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, and it makes for a quick, satisfying lunch the next day. You’ll find yourself looking forward to enjoying it again!
Budget-Friendly Meal
Finally, this meal is quite budget-friendly. Using cuts of beef that are economical, coupled with pantry staples, you can whip up something that feels extravagant without breaking the bank.
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Shopping List
When it comes to making Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff, the ingredients are pretty straightforward. Each element plays a crucial role in developing the dish’s rich flavor profile. The key players like the beef and the creamy sauce create that classic comfort food experience we all crave.
- 2 to 2 1/2 pounds top sirloin steak, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 16 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/4 cups sour cream
- 1/4 cup beef broth
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked
The Process for Making Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Making Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a delightful process that can fill your home with amazing smells and your heart with warmth. Let’s dive into the steps for creating this fantastic dish.
- Begin by tossing the beef cubes in a mixture of all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper. This not only helps in browning the beef but also adds flavor. It’s a simple step, but it makes a big difference in the final dish.
- Next, heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the coated beef cubes. Sear them until they’re browned on all sides. Look for a deep brown color; this will enhance the flavor of your sauce later. Once browned, remove the beef with a slotted spoon and transfer it into a 6-quart slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the leftover grease. Sauté for about two minutes until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This step brings out the sweetness of the onion and the aroma of the garlic. After sautéing, transfer this mixture to the slow cooker.
- Now it’s time to add the remaining ingredients. Toss in the sliced mushrooms, add 1 cup of beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together gently. This combination will transport you right into a cozy kitchen, full of promise.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Let it cook for about seven hours. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully, and the beef will become incredibly tender. You can go about your day, knowing that dinner is being taken care of.
- After seven hours, it’s time to thicken the sauce. Mix together 3 tablespoons of cornstarch with 1/4 cup of beef broth. This will create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for an additional 20 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and you’ll notice the sauce thickening up nicely.
- Finally, when you’re ready to serve, turn off the slow cooker. Gently stir in sour cream and the cooked egg noodles. This last touch is what makes the dish creamy and rich. You can serve it over the noodles or mix it all together. Either way, it’s going to be delicious!
Things Worth Knowing
- Slow cooker settings: Familiarize yourself with your slow cooker’s settings. Cooking on low is essential for achieving tender beef, while high settings can cook the dish faster but may yield a different texture.
- Beef selection: Choose a good quality beef, like top sirloin. The better the meat, the more flavorful and tender your Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff will be.
- Layering ingredients: Always layer your ingredients properly. Put the beef at the bottom to ensure it cooks evenly and the flavor infuses throughout the dish.
- Timing is key: Be mindful of the cooking time. Overcooking can lead to dry meat, while undercooking will leave it tough. Trust your slow cooker’s timing!
Expert Tips about Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Here are some expert tips to ensure that your Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff turns out perfectly every time. These tips will help you refine your technique and enjoy your time in the kitchen.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently, as the sauce can thicken upon cooling.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to three months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing in a suitable container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove or in the microwave.
- Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Serving size: This recipe serves six, making it ideal for families or meal prep for the week ahead.
- Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Serving Suggestions
When you’re ready to serve your Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff, consider these delightful ideas:
- Serve over egg noodles: The classic way to enjoy this dish is over cooked egg noodles, which soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
- With mashed potatoes: If you want something heartier, serve it with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
- As a filling for baked potatoes: For a unique serving style, spoon the beef stroganoff onto baked potatoes. It adds a lovely rustic touch.
- Pair with a side salad: A crisp salad balances the richness of the stroganoff beautifully. Opt for a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette.
- Perfect for gatherings: This dish is fantastic for potlucks or family gatherings. Set it in a large serving bowl and let everyone help themselves.
- Good for leftovers: Don’t hesitate to save some for lunch the next day. It reheats well and tastes even better, with flavors deepening overnight.
FAQ
Conclusion
In summary, Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a timeless dish that brings comfort and warmth to your table. With its rich flavors and tender beef, it’s sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next dinner. You’ll be delighted by how easy it is to prepare and how satisfying the results are. Enjoy every bite!
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Toss steak cubes with all-purpose flour, salt and pepper. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet. Brown meat on all sides. Remove meat with slotted spoon and place in a 6-quart slow cooker.
- Add onion and garlic to grease in the skillet and cook for 2 minutes. Transfer to slow cooker.
- Add mushrooms, 1 cup beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce to slow cooker. Mix the tomato paste into the broth some. Cover and cook on LOW for 7 hours.
- Mix together the cornstarch with 1/4 cup beef broth. Mix into slow cooker. Cover and cook on HIGH for 20 to 30 minutes to thicken.
- Turn the slow cooker off and stir in sour cream and noodles.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently, as the sauce can thicken upon cooling.
- Freezing: You can freeze this dish for up to three months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before freezing in a suitable container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove or in the microwave.
- Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Serving size: This recipe serves six, making it ideal for families or meal prep for the week ahead.
- Variations: Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition and color.
