This Easy Crockpot Beef Stroganoff is super simple and packed with flavor! Tender beef is slow-cooked with rich mushrooms and creamy sauce, making it a cozy meal.
I love how I can just throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do its magic. Serve it over noodles for a nice touch. Who doesn’t love a hearty dinner with minimal effort? 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This is the star of the dish! You can use chuck roast cut into pieces for great flavor and tenderness. If you prefer, you could also use ground beef for a different texture. Just note that cooking times may vary.
Mushrooms: I suggest using button or cremini mushrooms since they add great flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip them or substitute with canned mushrooms, but fresh ones really enhance the taste!
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess to the sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use plain Greek yogurt instead. It still gives a nice tang and creaminess without as many calories.
Egg Noodles: These are perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. If you’re gluten-free, feel free to use gluten-free pasta or even rice to serve instead.
How Do I Ensure the Beef is Tender?
Getting tender beef in your stroganoff is key for such a comforting dish. The slow cooking process helps a lot, but there are some tips to make sure it turns out perfectly.
- Cut beef into uniform bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Don’t rush the cooking time—letting it cook low and slow is essential for tenderness.
- If you’re short on time, try browning the beef in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot. This step can enhance the flavors!
Easy Crockpot Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Stroganoff:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For Serving:
- 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time, plus cooking time of 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high in the crockpot. Just set it up and let the slow cooker do its work while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by placing the beef stew meat in the bottom of your crockpot. It’s best to cut the meat into even, bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
2. Add Flavorful Veggies:
Next, sprinkle the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced mushrooms over the beef in the crockpot. These will add great flavors to your stroganoff!
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and add the Worcestershire sauce. Then, sprinkle the paprika, and add salt and pepper to taste. Give it a little stir to combine everything nicely.
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The goal is for the beef to be tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, in a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream and flour until smooth. This will give the sauce that creamy texture.
6. Final Touch:
Stir the sour cream mixture into the crockpot, mixing it well. Cover the crockpot and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes to let the sauce thicken up.
7. Cook the Egg Noodles:
While the sauce is thickening, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them when they’re ready.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, place a generous amount of beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious and hearty meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is ideal for this recipe, you can substitute it with chicken thighs or turkey. Just keep in mind that cooking time may vary, and ensure the meat is fully cooked before serving.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Additionally, make sure to use gluten-free egg noodles or serve it over rice instead.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen up the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the main ingredients the night before, placing them in the crockpot insert and refrigerating. In the morning, just pop it into the slow cooker and enjoy a hassle-free dinner!
