This Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tender beef, mushrooms, and a rich sauce, it’s super easy to make in your slow cooker.
The best part? You can toss everything in and forget about it! When it’s done, serve it over noodles or rice, and watch everyone smile. It’s a family favorite that warms the heart! 🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using chuck roast for its tenderness and flavor after slow cooking. If you’re looking for a leaner option, sirloin works too. Just remember it might not be as juicy!
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add a great taste and texture. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip them or use canned mushrooms. Just remember to drain them well.
Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream provides the best creaminess, but you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Just add it toward the end to keep its tangy flavor!
Broth: Beef broth is key, but chicken broth can work in a pinch. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth and swap the meat for mushrooms or tofu instead.
How Can I Make Sure the Beef Stays Tender?
To get that melt-in-your-mouth texture, the beef needs slow cooking. Here’s how:
- Start with good quality beef, cut into even pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Cook on low heat to allow the connective tissues to break down without drying out the meat.
- Avoid lifting the lid too often; each time you do, you lose precious heat and moisture!
After 7-8 hours on low, the beef should be perfectly tender and full of flavor. Bon appétit!
How to Make Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Beef and Veggies:
- 2 lbs (900g) beef stew meat or chuck roast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 16 oz (450g) mushrooms, sliced
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Finishing Touches:
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Egg noodles or rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef stroganoff takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then cooks in your slow cooker for 7-8 hours on low, or 4-5 hours on high. Once it’s done, you’ll have a creamy, comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by placing the bite-sized beef pieces directly into the slow cooker. This will be the base of your dish, so make sure they’re evenly distributed.
2. Add the Veggies:
Next, sprinkle the finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms over the beef. This mix will add fantastic flavor as it cooks.
3. Whisk the Sauce Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well blended.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and veggies in the slow cooker, ensuring everything is nicely coated.
5. Cook:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid, and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
6. Add the Creaminess:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, stir in the sour cream until well combined. If you want a thicker sauce, mix the flour with 2-3 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the slow cooker.
7. Final Cooking:
Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and heat through.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the stroganoff and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your creamy beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends!
Enjoy your creamy, comforting slow cooker beef stroganoff!
FAQ for Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Can I Use Different Cuts of Meat?
Absolutely! While chuck roast or beef stew meat are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use sirloin or even ground beef if you prefer. Just remember that different cuts may affect cooking time and tenderness.
Can I Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Sour Cream?
Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a lighter option. Just mix it in about 30 minutes before serving to maintain its tangy flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover beef stroganoff can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, ensure it’s cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare all the ingredients and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just assemble everything in the slow cooker when you’re ready to start cooking!
