Slow Cooker Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 7–8 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH

• Total Time: Approximately 8 hours

• Servings: 6–8

• Difficulty: Easy

• Cooking Method: Slow Cooker

Ingredients

For the Beef Stroganoff

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes

• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced

• 8 oz (225 g) fresh mushrooms, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (10.5 oz / 298 g) French onion soup

• 2 cups beef broth

• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (if needed to thicken)

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For Serving

• 12 oz (340 g) wide egg noodles

• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Cut the beef stew meat into evenly sized cubes.

2. Pat the beef dry using paper towels.

3. Season with salt and black pepper.

4. If desired, brown the beef in a skillet with a little oil for 2–3 minutes per side.

5. Transfer the beef into the slow cooker.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

1. Slice the onion into thin strips.

2. Clean and slice the mushrooms.

3. Mince the garlic.

4. Add the onions, mushrooms, and garlic over the beef.

5. Spread everything evenly in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Prepare the Cooking Liquid

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• French onion soup

• Beef broth

• Worcestershire sauce

• Dried thyme

• Italian seasoning

• Black pepper

Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Pour the broth mixture over the beef and vegetables.

2. Stir gently to distribute the ingredients.

3. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Choose either cooking method:

• LOW: Cook for 7–8 hours.

• HIGH: Cook for 4–5 hours.

Cook until the beef is fork-tender and the onions and mushrooms are soft.

For food safety, make sure the beef reaches a safe temperature and is tender before proceeding.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

1. Reduce the slow cooker to WARM or turn it off temporarily.

2. Place the sour cream in a small bowl.

3. Add a few tablespoons of hot cooking liquid and whisk to temper the sour cream.

4. Slowly stir the sour cream mixture into the slow cooker.

5. Mix gently until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Important: Avoid boiling the sauce after adding sour cream, as it may separate.

Step 7: Thicken the Gravy

If the gravy is too thin:

1. Mix 2 tablespoons flour with 3 tablespoons cold water until smooth.

2. Stir the mixture into the slow cooker.

3. Cook on HIGH for another 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Check the consistency and adjust if necessary.

Step 8: Cook the Egg Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Add the egg noodles.

3. Cook according to the package instructions until tender.

4. Drain well.

5. Toss with a little butter if desired.

Step 9: Serve

1. Place a generous portion of egg noodles in a serving bowl.

2. Spoon the creamy beef and mushroom gravy over the noodles.

3. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

4. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Estimated values per serving, assuming 8 servings with egg noodles.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Allergy Information: This recipe contains dairy (sour cream), wheat (flour and noodles), and may contain egg. Check packaged ingredients and cross-contact warnings if cooking for someone with food allergies.

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Brown the beef first: This adds extra flavor and creates a richer gravy.

2. Choose the right beef: Chuck roast or beef stew meat works wonderfully.

3. Use fresh mushrooms: They provide a delicious earthy flavor.

4. Add sour cream at the end: This keeps the sauce smooth and creamy.

5. Adjust the thickness: Add a little broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

6. Don’t overcook the noodles: Cook them separately to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze the beef and gravy without the noodles for up to 2–3 months. The sour cream sauce may change texture after thawing.

• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.

What to Serve With Beef Stroganoff

• Garlic bread

• Steamed green beans

• Roasted broccoli

• Fresh garden salad

• Mashed potatoes

• Roasted carrots

Final Result: Beautifully tender beef, juicy mushrooms, sweet onions, and a thick, velvety French onion gravy served over soft egg noodles. A warm, hearty, restaurant-style comfort meal that the whole family will love!