This Easy Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff is a cozy dish that combines tender beef and rich, creamy sauce. Just toss all the ingredients in the slow cooker for a worry-free meal!
There’s something magical about not having to stir it all day! I love how the beef just melts in your mouth. Serve it over noodles for an easy dinner that feels extra special!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: Chuck roast is the classic choice because it gets tender with slow cooking. You can use other cuts like sirloin, but they may not be as tender. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using chicken or turkey pieces instead.
Onion: A regular yellow onion works best here for sweetness. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or even green onions can be a nice alternative. Just keep in mind that they will slightly change the flavor.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add richness, but canned mushrooms can save time. If you’re not a fan, you might skip them or swap for other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a different texture.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. If you need a dairy-free option, plain coconut yogurt or cashew cream can work well. Greek yogurt is a great substitute but be careful as it might make the dish tangier.
Egg Noodles: While egg noodles are traditional, whole grain pasta or gluten-free pasta can also be used. Just remember to adjust cooking times according to the type of pasta you choose.
How Do You Get the Beef Nice and Tender?
Getting the beef tender is crucial for a great stroganoff. The key is long, slow cooking, which breaks down tough meat fibers. Here’s how to ensure perfect beef:
- Start by browning the beef in a pan if you can; it adds depth of flavor. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
- Mix all ingredients in the crock pot, ensuring the beef is submerged in the broth. This helps it cook evenly.
- Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this releases heat and slows down the cooking process.
For added depth, you can add a splash of red wine to the broth mixture, but it’s not necessary. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Easy Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef stroganoff takes about 15 minutes to prepare and can cook in the crock pot for 4-5 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low. Perfect for an easy dinner with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large crock pot, add the beef stew meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and sliced mushrooms. Give everything a good stir to mix it well.
2. Cook the Beef:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This will make sure your beef becomes nice and tender, full of flavor!
3. Add Sour Cream and Thicken (if needed):
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, add the sour cream to the crock pot and give it a good stir. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix the all-purpose flour with a small amount of water to make a slurry, then stir it into the mixture.
4. Cook the Egg Noodles:
While the beef is finishing up, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Once cooked, drain them and set aside.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, place a generous amount of beef stroganoff over the egg noodles. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and add some grated Parmesan cheese on top if you like. Enjoy your lovely meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is great for this recipe, you can also use chuck roast or even flank steak. Just remember to cut the meat into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
How Do I Thicken the Sauce Without Flour?
If you prefer not to use flour, there are alternatives! You can add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You can also use mashed potatoes or even pureed cauliflower for a thicker sauce without flour.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead! Cook the beef mixture as instructed, then cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. When ready to serve, simply reheat and add the sour cream before serving.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef stroganoff in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to maintain creaminess.
