This hearty beef stroganoff is perfect for busy days! With tender beef and creamy sauce, it cooks slowly for rich flavors that make every bite a delight.
Honestly, this dish warms my heart! I love serving it over egg noodles—it’s like a cozy blanket in a bowl. You’ll keep coming back for more! 😊
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Stew Meat: This dish shines with beef stew meat, often chuck roast or round cuts. If you prefer a leaner option, sirloin works well. Cubed chicken is also a great substitute if you’re looking for chicken stroganoff.
Onion: Yellow onions are the best for this recipe as they add sweetness. If you’re out of yellow onions, white onions or shallots can be good substitutes.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms elevate the dish. While cremini or button mushrooms are ideal, you can swap them for dried mushrooms soaked in water. Just make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.
Sour Cream: The sour cream adds creaminess. For a lighter version, you can mix Greek yogurt instead. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream, but be aware it will change the flavor slightly.
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient gives a nice tang. If you don’t have it, yellow mustard works too, but it will be milder. For a twist, try added horseradish for more bite!
How Can I Ensure My Beef is Perfectly Tender?
Getting tender beef in slow cooker recipes can be tricky. The key is to let the beef simmer long enough so it breaks down. Here are some tips:
- Choose the right cut—tough cuts like chuck roast become tender when cooked slowly.
- Make sure your slow cooker is set on low for 6 to 8 hours to really let the flavors meld.
- If in doubt, use a meat thermometer; beef should reach around 195°F for ideal tenderness.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Egg Noodles?
Cooking egg noodles in the slow cooker can seem confusing, but it’s quite simple! Here’s how to do it:
- Add the egg noodles about 30 minutes before you plan to serve. This timing helps keep them from overcooking.
- Stir them into the beef mixture to ensure they’re covered.
- Check them for doneness and stir occasionally; they should be tender but not mushy.
Can I Thicken My Stroganoff Sauce Easily?
If you want a thicker sauce, using cornstarch is a great trick. Here’s how:
- Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water to form a slurry.
- Add this slurry to your beef mixture in the last 15 minutes of cooking. This thickens the sauce without clumping.
These tips will help you achieve the best flavor and texture for your beef stroganoff. Enjoy making this comforting meal!
How to Make Pioneer Woman Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef Mixture:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Noodles and Sauce:
- 2 cups egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious beef stroganoff takes about 15 minutes to prepare. Then, it cooks in the slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours. Just combine everything in the morning, set it and forget it, and you’ll have a warm dinner ready by evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef Mixture:
In your slow cooker, start by adding the beef stew meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced mushrooms, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir to make sure all the beef is nicely coated with the ingredients.
2. Cooking the Beef:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Let it cook for about 6 to 8 hours. You know it’s done when the beef is nice and tender, making it easy to shred with a fork.
3. Add the Noodles:
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, add the egg noodles straight into the slow cooker. Stir gently to mix them in. Make sure the noodles are submerged in the liquid so they cook evenly!
4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional):
If you want a thicker sauce, here’s what to do: mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Add this mixture to the beef mixture in the slow cooker during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Stir it in and let it thicken up a bit as the noodles finish cooking.
5. Finish with Sour Cream:
Once the noodles are tender, stir in the sour cream. Keep stirring until it’s all creamy and well mixed. This is what makes the stroganoff rich and delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish out your succulent beef stroganoff onto plates and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy your hearty meal that’s just perfect for any night!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat works great, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or sirloin. Just remember to cut them into bite-sized pieces, and be aware that cooking times might slightly vary based on the cut you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche as a substitute. Both will give a similar creamy texture and tangy flavor. Just add them at the end, just like you would with sour cream.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up!
Can I Freeze Beef Stroganoff?
Yes, you can freeze beef stroganoff! Cool it completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It should keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth if necessary.
