Description

Craving a rich, creamy comfort food classic that warms the soul? Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is your answer! This hearty dish transforms tender beef stew meat into a velvety, mushroom-infused masterpiece, finished with a tangy sour cream sauce

Ingredients

Beef Stew Meat (1.5 lbs):
- Why it’s important: A budget-friendly cut that becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
- Substitutions: Chuck roast (cubed), sirloin, or ground beef for a quicker option. For vegetarian, use mushrooms or seitan (adjust cooking time).
Onion (1 medium, chopped):
- Why it’s important: Adds sweet, savory depth to the sauce.
- Substitutions: Shallots, leeks, or 1 tsp onion powder.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced):
- Why it’s important: Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitutions: ¾ tsp garlic powder or 1.5 tsp garlic paste.
Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced):
- Why it’s important: Brings earthy, umami flavor and meaty texture.
- Substitutions: Cremini, button, or shiitake mushrooms. Omit or use zucchini for mushroom-free.
Beef Broth (2 cups):
- Why it’s important: Creates a savory base for the sauce.
- Substitutions: Chicken or vegetable broth, or water with a bouillon cube.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp):
- Why it’s important: Adds tangy, umami depth to enhance the beefy flavor.
- Substitutions: Soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, or a mix of soy and vinegar.
Dried Thyme (1 tsp):
- Why it’s important: Provides earthy, herbaceous notes.
- Substitutions: Fresh thyme (1 tbsp), dried rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
Salt and Pepper (to taste):
- Why it’s important: Enhances the flavors of the beef and sauce.
Sour Cream (1 cup):
- Why it’s important: Creates the creamy, tangy signature stroganoff sauce.
- Substitutions: Greek yogurt for lighter, crème fraîche, or cashew cream for vegan (stir in at the end).
Cornstarch (2 tbsp, optional, for thickening):
- Why it’s important: Thickens the sauce for a richer texture if desired.
- Substitutions: Flour (2 tbsp, mixed with water) or arrowroot powder.
Cooked Egg Noodles or Rice (for serving):
- Why it’s important: Soaks up the creamy sauce and completes the meal.
- Substitutions: Mashed potatoes, quinoa, or zucchini noodles for low-carb.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish):
- Why it’s important: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish and pop of color.
- Substitutions: Chives, dill, or omit.

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Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, add 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, 1 chopped medium onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 8 oz sliced mushrooms, 2 cups beef broth, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Stir gently to combine, ensuring the beef is mostly submerged in the broth.
Tip: Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the beef is tender and easily breaks apart with a fork.
Check doneness at the lower end of the time to avoid overcooking, as slow cookers vary.
Tip: Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to maintain consistent heat.

Step 3: Add Sour Cream and Thicken (Optional)

In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in 1 cup sour cream until fully incorporated.
If a thicker sauce is desired, mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp cold water to form a slurry, then stir into the slow cooker. Cook on high for the remaining time to thicken.
Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce as needed.
Tip: Add the sour cream slowly and stir well to avoid curdling.

Step 4: Serve

Spoon the beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice, ensuring each serving gets plenty of beef, mushrooms, and creamy sauce.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.
Serve hot, ideally with a side of steamed vegetables or a salad.
Tip: Prepare noodles or rice just before serving to keep them fresh and avoid sogginess.

Assembly

Assembling Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is all about creating a warm, comforting plate. Here’s how to bring it together:

Choose Your Base: Serve the stroganoff over a bed of cooked egg noodles or fluffy rice to soak up the creamy sauce. Mashed potatoes or zucchini noodles work for alternative diets.
Add the Stroganoff: Spoon a generous portion of the beef, mushrooms, and sauce over the base, ensuring an even mix of ingredients.
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Presentation Tips:
- Use wide, shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and tender beef.
- Swirl the noodles into a nest or pile the rice for a rustic, cozy look.
- Pair with a side of green beans, roasted carrots, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Tip: For a family-style presentation, serve the stroganoff in a large dish with noodles or rice on the side, letting everyone customize their plates.