Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff – Easy & Delicious!
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the rich, creamy flavor of beef stroganoff. This slow cooker version is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it do all the work! Perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, hearty meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy slow cooker beef stroganoff is a lifesaver for busy families. Here’s why it’s a crowd-pleaser:
- Rich and creamy flavor with minimal effort
- Uses simple ingredients you likely already have
- Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly, making it great for meal prep
- Perfectly tender beef that’s cooked low and slow
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this creamy beef stroganoff, gather the following ingredients:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds of beef stew meat (or chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles, for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Pro Tip: Use beef stew meat or chuck roast, as they become tender when slow-cooked and soak up all the rich flavors.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef and Veggies
- Season the beef with salt and pepper, and set aside.
- Add the diced onions, garlic, and mushrooms to the bottom of your slow cooker. This layer of vegetables helps to build the base of the flavors and keeps the beef from sticking.
2. Mix the Sauce
- In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and cream of mushroom soup. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add Beef and Sauce to Slow Cooker
- Place the seasoned beef on top of the vegetables, then pour the sauce mixture over the beef. Stir everything gently to combine.
Pro Tip: For extra flavor, sear the beef in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This step is optional but gives the stroganoff a deeper, more robust flavor.
4. Cook on Low
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the beef is tender and easy to shred with a fork.
5. Stir in the Sour Cream
- Once the beef is tender, stir in the sour cream to make the sauce creamy and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Pro Tip: Avoid adding the sour cream at the beginning of cooking, as it can curdle when cooked for a long time. Adding it at the end keeps the sauce creamy and smooth.
6. Serve Over Noodles
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Serve the beef stroganoff over the warm noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for Perfect Beef Stroganoff
- Use Full-Fat Sour Cream: It provides a richer, creamier texture and won’t curdle as easily.
- Avoid Over-Stirring: Stirring too much can break down the beef and make the sauce too thick.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Beef stroganoff keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to prevent the sour cream from separating.
Why Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Is Great for Meal Prep
This recipe is not only delicious but also ideal for meal prep. Make a large batch and portion it out for easy dinners throughout the week. The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezer-Friendly Tip: Freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a bit of broth or water to restore the creamy texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? Yes! If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt. Just add it at the end to prevent curdling.
Can I use a different type of mushroom? Absolutely. Cremini or baby bella mushrooms add a richer flavor, but white button mushrooms work well too.
Can I make this on the stovetop instead? Yes! Simply brown the beef in a large pot, add the onions, garlic, and mushrooms, then add the sauce ingredients. Cover and simmer on low for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
Enjoy Your Delicious Beef Stroganoff!
This creamy slow cooker beef stroganoff is sure to be a hit with family and friends. It’s the perfect blend of rich, creamy flavors and tender beef – all with minimal effort. Try it tonight and experience the ultimate comfort food!
