The Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort dish that you can easily prepare from scratch. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this recipe offers a rich and creamy sauce that envelops tender strips of beef and mushrooms. The slow cooker takes care of the hard work, allowing you to enjoy delicious flavors with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Simply toss your ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you go about your day.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard creates a savory sauce that elevates the dish.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out noodles or add extra veggies to suit your taste preferences.
- Comfort Food Classic: This recipe is a delightful throwback to classic comfort food that warms your heart and soul.
- Healthy Twist: Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream adds creaminess without compromising health.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right tools makes the process smoother and ensures great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This hands-free appliance allows for slow, even cooking, perfect for tenderizing beef.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes cutting meat and vegetables quick and safe, ensuring uniform sizes for even cooking.
Ingredients
The BEST slow cooker beef stroganoff from scratch. The crockpot makes it easy and hands free. Comforting, creamy, and classic.
For the Beef
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless sirloin steak (cut into thin (1/2-inch-thick) 2-inchx1-inch strips)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon dried dillweed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
For the Sauce
- 16 ounces cremini (baby bella mushrooms, sliced)
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth (divided)
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
For Serving
- 1 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt (do not use nonfat or it will curdle)
- 8 ounces whole wheat egg noodles (penne, rotini, or similar noodles work well also)
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional for serving)
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
Grease the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker with nonstick spray. Add the sirloin strips to the pot. Sprinkle with kosher salt, dillweed, ground black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir to coat all pieces evenly.
Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients
Add the sliced mushrooms along with 1 cup of beef broth to the slow cooker. Pour in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Cover with a lid and set to cook on high for about 2 to 3 hours or on low for 5 to 7 hours until the beef is tender.
Step 3: Thicken the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, stir together the remaining 1/2 cup of beef broth with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this slurry into the slow cooker and cover again. Cook on high for an additional 20 minutes before stirring in Greek yogurt. Re-cover and continue cooking on high for another 10 minutes.
Step 4: Cook Noodles & Serve
While your stroganoff is finishing up, cook your whole wheat egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. You can either stir these into the slow cooker or serve them separately by placing them in bowls first before ladling stroganoff over them. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.
Enjoy this comforting meal that brings warmth to any table!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Serving Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff can elevate your meal experience. With its rich and creamy sauce, this dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
Over Egg Noodles
- Cooked egg noodles serve as a classic base for your beef stroganoff. Their texture perfectly absorbs the creamy sauce.
With Rice
- Serve the stroganoff over fluffy white or brown rice for a comforting alternative. The grains soak up the sauce, making every bite enjoyable.
On Mashed Potatoes
- For an indulgent twist, spoon the beef stroganoff over buttery mashed potatoes. This combination adds extra creaminess and flavor.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.
With Crusty Bread
- Offer slices of crusty bread on the side to soak up any remaining sauce. It’s perfect for those who love to enjoy every last bit!
How to Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff, here are some tips to consider for a truly delightful dish.
- Use quality beef: Choosing a good cut of beef, like boneless sirloin, ensures tenderness and flavor in your stroganoff.
- Don’t skip the seasoning: Properly seasoning the meat and broth enhances overall taste. Be generous with spices!
- Control mushroom texture: If you prefer firmer mushrooms, add them halfway through cooking instead of at the start.
- Incorporate Greek yogurt carefully: Stir in Greek yogurt at the end of cooking for creaminess without curdling; avoid nonfat varieties.
- Adjust thickness: If you like a thicker sauce, let it cook longer after adding cornstarch until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Experiment with noodles: Try different types of pasta such as penne or rotini for variety in texture with each serving.
Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent choices that complement this hearty dish perfectly.
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for mopping up that creamy stroganoff sauce; it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
- Roasted Carrots: Sweet roasted carrots provide a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of beef stroganoff.
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances out the richness of the stroganoff and offers a refreshing bite.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice is an excellent substitute that still delivers great flavor when paired with stroganoff.
- Sautéed Spinach: Quick sautéed spinach adds nutrients and brings a vibrant green element alongside this rich main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a delicious outcome.
- Not seasoning the meat properly – Failing to season the beef can lead to bland stroganoff. Ensure you sprinkle the salt and spices evenly over the meat before cooking.
- Using nonfat yogurt – Nonfat yogurt will curdle when heated. Always opt for plain whole milk Greek yogurt for creaminess without curdling.
- Skipping the cornstarch slurry – Neglecting to thicken your sauce can result in a watery dish. Mix cornstarch with broth to create a slurry before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Overcooking or undercooking mushrooms – Adding mushrooms too early can make them too soft, while adding them too late may leave them firm. Adjust timing based on your texture preference.
- Ignoring noodle cooking instructions – Cooking noodles separately ensures they maintain their texture. Avoid adding raw noodles directly to the slow cooker; follow package instructions instead.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Allow the stroganoff to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space in the container as the stroganoff will expand when frozen.
Reheating Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally, until hot.
- Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring often until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff.
What cut of beef is best for Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff?
Tender cuts like sirloin work well since they become soft during cooking. Avoid tougher cuts that require longer cooking times.
Can I use different types of mushrooms?
Yes! You can substitute any variety of mushrooms you prefer, such as button or portobello mushrooms, for a unique flavor.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free noodles and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free for a delicious meal.
How do I customize my Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff?
You can add vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences as well!
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a comforting and creamy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients. Give this easy recipe a try and enjoy a heartwarming meal that your family will love!
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff. This hearty dish features tender strips of beef simmered to perfection in a rich, creamy sauce made from savory ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, all enhanced by the earthy flavors of mushrooms. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this easy recipe allows you to simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Serve it over egg noodles or rice for a satisfying meal that warms both body and soul.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless sirloin steak
- 16 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt
- 8 ounces whole wheat egg noodles
Instructions
- Grease a slow cooker and add sirloin strips seasoned with salt, dillweed, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add sliced mushrooms and 1 cup of beef broth, followed by Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 5-7 hours.
- In a bowl, mix remaining beef broth with cornstarch until smooth. Stir into the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 20 minutes.
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Serve stroganoff over noodles, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (246g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
