Crockpot Beef Stroganoff
Crockpot Beef Stroganoff is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy days or cozy weekends. With just five simple ingredients and a slow cooker, this recipe makes a hearty meal that the whole family will love. The best part? It’s a “set it and forget it” recipe, giving you more time to focus on other things while dinner is cooking itself!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy: Only five ingredients needed! Perfect for when you’re short on time but want something hearty and homemade.
- Versatile: It’s customizable, freezer-friendly, and great for meal prep.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a busy weekday, a Sunday dinner, or a family gathering, this recipe always hits the spot.
Ingredients
- 1 lb stew meat (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of onion soup
(If you can’t find cream of onion soup, substitute with 1 packet of Lipton dry onion soup mix and an extra can of cream of mushroom soup.) - 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
(Cream of chicken soup works if you’re not a fan of mushrooms.) - 8 oz egg noodles
- ½ cup sour cream
- Optional:
- 4 oz can sliced mushrooms (for extra texture)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep and Combine
- Place your stew meat at the bottom of your crockpot. Add the cream of onion soup and cream of mushroom soup. Stir well to coat the meat in the creamy mixture.
2. Let It Simmer
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours or until the meat is tender. If your crockpot runs hot, check at around 2.5 hours to ensure the meat is cooked through.
3. Cook the Noodles
- About 20 minutes before the stroganoff is done, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set them aside.
4. Finish with Sour Cream
- Stir in the sour cream once the meat is cooked. If you’re using mushrooms, toss them in now.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the beef mixture over the cooked egg noodles, or you can try it with rice. Garnish with parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Tips for Success
Freezer-Friendly Meal Prep:
- For easy prep, combine the stew meat, cream of onion soup, and cream of mushroom soup in a freezer bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, toss everything into the crockpot and cook as usual. Stir in the sour cream just before serving.
Thickening the Sauce:
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 3 teaspoons of cornstarch or flour with ¼ cup of warm water and stir it into the crockpot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Double It for a Crowd:
- This recipe doubles easily. Just add an extra hour to the cooking time to ensure everything is cooked thoroughly.
A Little History: Where Did Stroganoff Come From?
Did you know beef stroganoff originates from Russia in the 19th century? It was named after the Stroganov family, wealthy and influential figures at the time. The original dish featured sautéed beef and smetana (a type of sour cream), and it has since evolved into a beloved comfort food all over the world.
What to Serve with Beef Stroganoff
While this stroganoff is hearty enough to stand alone, here are some great sides to elevate the meal:
- Egg Noodles or Rice: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. For extra flavor, serve it over buttered noodles or seasoned rice.
- Veggies for Balance: Try pairing it with steamed green beans, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce.
Crockpot Beef Stroganoff is everything you want in a meal: simple, creamy, and comforting. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect go-to dish for busy days or special family dinners!