Name: Easy Beef Stroganoff Slow Cooker
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 360 min
Total time: 375 min
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil ( Extra virgin (optional to add this if you're using a specific type of olive oil)); 500 grams Beef Strips (You can use beef cut into strips.); 1 large onion (chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 200 grams Mushrooms (Sliced); 2 cups Beef Broth; 2 tbsp Flour (For thickening)

Beef Stroganoff is a classic dish that has been enjoyed by families worldwide for generations. It features tender strips of beef cooked in a creamy, savory sauce with onions and mushrooms, making it the perfect comfort food for a cozy dinner. While traditional recipes may require a lot of hands-on cooking, this slow cooker beef stroganoff allows you to enjoy all the rich flavors with minimal effort. Simply set it and forget it—let the slow cooker do the hard work for you.

This article explores how to make easy and delicious beef stroganoff in a slow cooker, its history, tips for perfecting it, variations you can try, and much more. By the end, you’ll have everything you need to make a mouthwatering beef stroganoff that the whole family will love.

Table of Contents

The Origins of Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff has a rich history that dates back to 19th-century Russia, where it was first created as a dish fit for the aristocracy. The recipe is said to have been named after a Russian noble family, the Stroganovs, who were known for their luxurious and sophisticated culinary tastes. The original version featured tender pieces of beef sautéed with onions and served in a simple sauce made with sour cream, which was a common ingredient in Russian cuisine.

Over the years, the recipe has evolved and adapted to different cultures, with modern versions often incorporating mushrooms, garlic, and a richer sauce. In the United States, Beef Stroganoff gained popularity in the 1950s and 60s, becoming a beloved comfort food staple. Today, it’s a dish that’s cherished for its creamy, savory flavor and versatility, making it perfect for a slow cooker adaptation.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Here’s a list of the basic ingredients needed to make a delicious slow-cooker beef stroganoff:

Essential Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil (optional for browning the beef)
500 grams beef strips (you can use chuck steak, sirloin, or rump)
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
200 grams mushrooms, sliced
2 cups beef broth (use low-sodium broth if you prefer)
2 tbsp flour (for thickening the sauce)
1/2 cup sour cream (for a creamy finish)

Optional Ingredients:

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for added depth of flavor)
1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for a tangy kick)
1 tsp paprika (for warmth and color)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or Rice (for serving)

Ingredient Substitutions:

You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
For a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour as a thickening agent.
Replace part of the beef broth with red wine for a deeper flavor.

Equipment You’ll Need

To make this beef stroganoff in a slow cooker, you’ll need the following equipment:

Slow cooker (essential for the recipe)
Mixing bowl (for combining the ingredients)
Wooden spoon (for stirring)
Large skillet (for browning the beef, if desired)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Slow-Cooker Beef Stroganoff

This easy beef stroganoff slow cooker recipe is straightforward, and the steps below will ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

1. Brown the Beef

Browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker adds depth and flavor to the dish, but it’s optional.

Instruction: I warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 500 grams of beef strips and cook until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Take the beef out of the skillet and set it aside.

Tip: To prevent overcrowding, brown the beef in small batches. This allows for even browning and a better sear.

2. Prepare the Onion and Garlic

Cooking the onions and garlic before adding them to the slow cooker enhances the overall flavor of the stroganoff.

Instruction: Add the chopped 1 large onion and minced 2 cloves of garlic in the same skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.

3. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

Once the beef, onions, and garlic are prepared, it’s time to combine everything in the slow cooker.

Instruction: Transfer the browned beef, sautéed onions, garlic, sliced 200 grams of mushrooms, and 2 cups of beef broth to the slow cooker. If you’re adding any optional ingredients like Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, or paprika, include them at this stage.
Stir everything together until well combined.

4. Slow Cook the Stroganoff

Set your slow cooker to low heat and let it cook slowly to develop rich flavors. Cooking low and slow helps tenderize the beef and infuse all the flavors into the sauce.

Instruction: Cook the mixture on low heat for 6 hours or until the beef is tender and the flavors are well-developed.

Tip: If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high heat for 3-4 hours, but slow cooking yields the best results.

5. Add the Sour Cream and Thicken the Sauce

For a rich and creamy sauce, you’ll add the sour cream toward the end of the cooking process.

Instruction: Mix 2 tbsp of flour and 1/2 cup of sour cream until smooth in a small bowl. Add the mixture to the slow cooker and stir thoroughly.
Continue cooking on low for an additional 30 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the stroganoff is ready, it’s time to serve it over your favorite base.

Instruction: Serve the beef stroganoff over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfecting Your Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

Making the perfect beef stroganoff in a slow cooker is easy when you keep a few key tips in mind:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef

For a tender and flavorful stroganoff, use cuts of beef that are suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck steak, sirloin, or rump. These cuts become tender when cooked low and slow, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.

2. Don’t Skip the Browning

While it’s tempting to skip the browning step, taking a few extra minutes to sear the beef adds a deep, savory flavor to the dish. Browning creates a caramelized crust that enhances the overall taste.

3. Add Sour Cream at the End

To prevent the sour cream from curdling, add it to the stroganoff in the final 30 minutes of cooking. This will give you a creamy sauce without any lumps.

4. Thicken the Sauce with Flour or Cornstarch

Mix the sour cream with some flour or cornstarch for a thicker sauce before adding it to the slow cooker. This helps create a silky texture without clumps.

5. Use Fresh Herbs for Garnish

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish, balancing the sauce’s richness. Fresh herbs are best added just before serving.

Variations of Beef Stroganoff to Try

Beef Stroganoff is a versatile dish that you can easily customize to suit your tastes. Here are some fun and delicious variations:

1. Mushroom Stroganoff (Vegetarian)

Replace the beef with a mix of hearty mushrooms like cremini, portobello, or shiitake for a vegetarian version of this classic dish. The mushrooms will provide a meaty texture and soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.

2. Spicy Stroganoff

Add a little heat to your stroganoff by incorporating red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce. This variation is ideal for those who like a touch of spice in their meals.

3. Dairy-Free Stroganoff

Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut, cashew, or dairy-free yogurt. Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce for a gluten-free and dairy-free meal.

4. Classic Russian Stroganoff

For a more traditional Russian version, omit the mushrooms and add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard and a pinch of paprika for a tangy flavor. Serve it with rice or mashed potatoes instead of egg noodles.

5. Beef Stroganoff with Red Wine

Add a splash of red wine to the slow cooker and beef broth for a deeper, more complex flavor. The wine will add richness and a hint of sweetness to the sauce.

What to Serve with Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with various sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

1. Egg Noodles

The classic choice for beef slogan

off, egg noodles soak up the creamy sauce beautifully and add a soft, comforting texture.

2. Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are an excellent base for stroganoff, complementing the rich sauce with their fluffy texture.

3. Rice

White or brown rice provides a neutral base that lets the flavors of the stroganoff shine. Wild rice brings a nutty flavor and a pleasantly chewy texture.

4. Steamed Vegetables

Balance the dish’s richness with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. These veggies add color and freshness to the plate.

5. Crusty Bread

A warm slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious stroganoff sauce. Garlic bread is a particularly tasty option.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a serving of slow-cooker beef stroganoff:

Calories: 82 kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3g
Sodium: 451mg
Potassium: 285mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Vitamin A: 1 IU
Vitamin C: 4 mg
Calcium: 26 mg
Iron: 1 mg

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on the exact ingredients and quantities used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is it possible to prepare beef stroganoff in advance?

Yes! You can prepare beef stroganoff in advance and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

2. Can I freeze beef stroganoff?

Absolutely. Store the cooled stroganoff in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

3. What are some alternatives to sour cream?

You can replace sour cream with Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Choose a thick and tangy option to maintain the creamy texture.

4. Can I use fresh herbs in the slow cooker?

While fresh herbs can be added to the slow cooker, but they lose flavor over long cooking times. It’s best to add fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving.

5. How can I thicken the stroganoff if it’s too runny?

If your stroganoff is too runny, mix an additional tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with a bit of water to form a slurry. Stir it into the slow cooker during the final 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Easy Beef Stroganoff, made in the slow cooker, is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any family dinner. With tender beef strips, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, this dish will surely become a staple in your kitchen. It’s simple to prepare, requires minimal effort, and offers a deliciously rich flavor that’s hard to beat.

So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a warm and satisfying meal that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

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Easy Beef Stroganoff Slow Cooker

Enjoy a rich and creamy beef stroganoff made effortlessly in the slow cooker. This hearty dish features tender beef strips simmered in a savoury sauce with onions and mushrooms, perfect for a cozy family dinner. Serve over egg noodles for a cozy meal everyone will enjoy.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 6

Total Time 6 15

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 82 kcal

Equipment

1 slow cooker
1 Mixing bowl
1 wooden spoon

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil Extra virgin (optional to add this if you're using a specific type of olive oil)
500 grams Beef Strips You can use beef cut into strips.
1 large onion chopped
2 cloves Garlic Minced
200 grams Mushrooms Sliced
2 cups Beef Broth
2 tbsp Flour For thickening

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef:Instruction:
In a large skillet, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned on all sides.
2. Prepare the Onion and Garlic:Instruction:
Take the beef out of the skillet and set it aside. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
3. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:Instruction:
Transfer the browned beef, sautéed onions, garlic, mushrooms, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
4. Slow Cooking:Instruction:
Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook for 6 hours until the beef is tender.
5. Add the Sour Cream and Flour:Instruction:
In a small bowl, mix together the sour cream and flour. Add to the slow cooker and stir well. Cook for another 30 minutes on low.
6. Serve:Instruction:
Serve the beef stroganoff over egg noodles or rice, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Tip for Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, you can brown the beef in small batches to ensure a good sear on each piece before adding it to the slow cooker.
Make Ahead:
- You can prepare this dish in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve over egg noodles or mashed potatoes for a warm and hearty meal.
Variations:
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version of the dish.
Storage Tips:
- Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will last up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Calories: 82kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 4gFat: 4gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 451mgPotassium: 285mgFiber: 1gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 26mgIron: 1mg

Keyword Beef Stroganoff, comfort Food, creamy beef stroganoff, easy beef recipes, slow cooker Recipes

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Easy Beef Stroganoff Slow Cooker

Enjoy a rich and creamy beef stroganoff made effortlessly in the slow cooker. This hearty dish features tender beef strips simmered in a savory sauce with onions and mushrooms, perfect for a cozy family dinner. Serve over egg noodles for a comforting meal everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15minutes mins

Cook Time6hours hrs

Total Time6hours hrs 15minutes mins

CourseMain Course

CuisineAmerican

Servings4

Calories82 kcal