There is something incredibly comforting and satisfying about a Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe, and this version truly hits all the right notes. Tender, flavorful beef slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy with hints of brown gravy mix and au jus, finished with creamy sour cream, and perfectly paired with tender egg noodles—this dish is like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making dinner for a family night or inviting friends over, this recipe promises to bring cozy, homestyle goodness without fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step to mastering this Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe. Each one is simple yet essential, offering layers of flavor, texture, and color to make this dish truly shine.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat: Choose a cut that becomes tender and juicy when slow-cooked for hours.
- 1 (0.87-ounce) packet brown gravy mix: This adds a deep, savory base for the sauce that’s both thick and flavorful.
- 1 (1-ounce) packet au jus mix: A boost of beefy richness that enhances the gravy’s complexity.
- 1 1/2 cups water: The perfect amount to meld the dry mixes and create a luscious sauce without watering down flavors.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Added at the end for a velvety creaminess that balances the savory notes.
- 1 (8-ounce) package egg noodles: The ideal tender and slightly chewy accompaniment that soaks up the delicious gravy.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker Base
Start by spraying your slow cooker generously with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Then, whisk together the brown gravy mix, au jus mix, and water directly in the slow cooker until everything is well combined. This creates the flavorful liquid bath that will tenderize and infuse the beef during cooking.
Step 2: Add the Beef and Slow Cook
Next, add the beef stew meat to the slow cooker and stir to make sure every piece is coated and submerged in the gravy mixture. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 5 hours. The long cooking time is key here because it allows the beef to break down slowly, becoming melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Step 3: Stir in Sour Cream
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, take a ladle of the cooking gravy and combine it with sour cream in a small bowl. This step makes sure the sour cream blends smoothly without curdling. Then, stir the sour cream mixture back into the slow cooker and continue cooking on high for another 20 minutes. This adds a beautiful creaminess and rich tang that completes the sauce perfectly.
Step 4: Cook and Serve with Egg Noodles
While the stroganoff finishes cooking, prepare the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Serve the tender beef and creamy gravy over the hot noodles. For a more casual, creamy noodle dish, you can also stir the noodles directly into the slow cooker before serving to let them soak up all that delicious sauce.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe even further, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top just before serving. These fresh herbs add a pop of color and a delicate brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite hearty, but serving it alongside simple steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad offers a refreshing balance. Garlic bread or crusty artisan rolls are also excellent choices to soak up any extra gravy on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Try serving your beef stroganoff in individual ramekins or over a bed of mashed potatoes instead of noodles for a delicious twist. If you want a fun presentation, layer the stroganoff over crispy baked potato skins for a cozy appetizer or snack.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The beef stroganoff tends to thicken as it cools; just add a splash of water or broth when reheating to loosen the sauce.
Freezing
This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep. Allow the stroganoff to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of sour cream or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess if it feels dry. Avoid overheating to keep the beef tender and the sauce smooth.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef for this Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe?
Absolutely! While beef stew meat is ideal for slow cooking and becoming tender, you can also use chuck roast cut into chunks or sirloin tips. Just adjust cooking time as needed to ensure tenderness.
Is there a substitute for sour cream in this recipe?
If you don’t have sour cream, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that provides a similar tang and creaminess. Just be sure to stir it in at the end on low heat to prevent curdling.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish, cover tightly, and bake at 325°F for about 2 to 3 hours until the beef is tender. Just keep an eye on the liquid to make sure it doesn’t dry out.
What can I use instead of egg noodles?
Feel free to swap egg noodles with other wide pasta types like pappardelle, fettuccine, or even rice or mashed potatoes to suit your preference or what you have on hand.
Can I add mushrooms or onions to this Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe?
Definitely! Adding sliced mushrooms and chopped onions gives extra depth and classic Stroganoff flavors. Add them at the start so they cook down nicely and meld with the beef and sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare yet full of rich, comforting flavors, this Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe is a total winner. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy classic beef stroganoff without the fuss, and it fits perfectly into busy lifestyles or cozy weekends. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort food that feels like a warm embrace every time.
Print
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff is a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy days. Tender beef stew meat is simmered slowly with savory brown gravy and au jus mixes, then enriched with creamy sour cream. Served over tender egg noodles, this classic dish offers rich flavors and a satisfying texture with minimal hands-on time.
Ingredients
Beef and Sauce
- 2 lbs beef stew meat
- 1 (0.87-ounce) packet brown gravy mix
- 1 (1-ounce) packet au jus mix
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Noodles
- 1 (8-ounce) package egg noodles
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. In the slow cooker, whisk together the brown gravy mix, au jus mix, and water until well combined.
- Add the Beef: Add the beef stew meat to the slow cooker and stir to coat the meat in the gravy mixture. Ensure as much of the meat as possible is covered by the liquid for even cooking. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 5 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Add Sour Cream: About 30 minutes before serving, scoop out approximately 1/2 cup of the gravy from the slow cooker into a small bowl. Stir in the sour cream until smooth, then return this mixture to the slow cooker and stir well to combine. Cover and cook on high for an additional 20 minutes to heat through.
- Cook the Egg Noodles: Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles well.
- Serve: Serve the tender beef and rich gravy over the hot egg noodles. For convenience, you may also stir the cooked noodles directly into the slow cooker to combine before serving.
Notes
- Using two packets—brown gravy mix and au jus mix—adds layered savory flavors to the dish.
- Do not add the sour cream at the beginning or it may curdle; adding it near the end preserves creaminess.
- For added vegetables, consider adding sliced mushrooms or onions to the slow cooker before cooking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well.
- Use nonstick spray to prevent meat from sticking and ease cleanup.
