Name: Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 510 min
Total time: 525 min
Ingredients: 1.75 kg beef chuck or other stewing beef, cut in 4cm cubes (economical stewing beef); 1.5 tsp salt; 1.5 tsp pepper; 2 tbsp oil; 20 g butter, unsalted; 1 large onion, halved then sliced (sliced into 1 cm); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 7 tbsp flour, plain / all purpose; 4 tbsp Dijon Mustard; 1 litre beef stock/broth, reduced salt; 1.5 cups sour cream, full fat (best); 3 tbsp butter, unsalted; 700 g mushrooms, sliced (sliced into 0.5cm thick slices); 3 cloves garlic, finely minced; 0.5 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp pepper; Pasta or wide egg noodles; mashed potato; Chives for garnish

Introduction to Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

What is Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew?

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew is a delightful twist on the classic beef stroganoff, where tender chunks of stewing beef are simmered slowly in a rich, creamy sauce. This comforting dish transforms inexpensive cuts of meat into a succulent meal that feels indulgent yet remains budget-friendly. Whether you're winding down after a long workweek or looking to impress family and friends, this recipe is your secret weapon.

The beauty of this dish lies not only in its incredible flavors but also in its simplicity. With just a bit of prep time, you can set your slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Imagine returning to a home filled with the inviting aroma of tender beef, seasoned vegetables, and savory garlic mushrooms!

Besides being delicious, slow cooker beef stroganoff stew is also versatile. Pair it with wide egg noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a fresh side salad for a complete meal. Plus, it keeps well, making it perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Learn more about the benefits of slow cooking on Healthline.

Ready to dive into this comforting dish? Let’s check out the full recipe and get cooking!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

Creating a hearty slow cooker beef stroganoff stew is all about choosing the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting dish.

Main Ingredients

Beef: 1.75 kg (3.5 lb) of beef chuck or other stewing beef, cut into 1.5-inch cubes. This kind of meat gets nice and tender during the long cooking process.
Seasonings: 1.5 teaspoon salt and pepper each.
Oils: 2 tablespoon cooking oil and 20 g (1 tbsp) unsalted butter for browning the meat.
Vegetables: 1 large onion and 4 minced garlic cloves to build flavor.
Thickening Agent: 7 tablespoon plain/all-purpose flour for that rich, creamy sauce.
Flavor Boosters: 4 tablespoon Dijon mustard and 1 litre (1 quart) reduced-salt beef stock.
Creaminess: 1.5 cups of full-fat sour cream to add richness.

Optional Ingredients

For those looking to elevate their slow cooker beef stroganoff stew, consider adding:

Mushrooms: About 700 g (1.2 lb) of sliced mushrooms for a delightful umami flavor.
Pasta or Noodles: Wide egg noodles or mashed potatoes are fantastic options for a satisfying base.
Chives: A sprinkle of fresh chives can brighten up the dish.

These ingredients work harmoniously to create a meal that's not only delicious but also incredibly fulfilling. For more tips on ingredient selection, check out this resource on cooking with beef. Happy cooking!

Preparing Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

When it comes to comfort food, slow cooker beef stroganoff stew takes the cake (or should we say the bowl?). This recipe is not only easy to follow, but it also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that’ll make everyone eager to dig in. Let’s walk through each step to ensure your stew turns out perfectly.

Prepare and Season the Beef

Begin by selecting high-quality beef for your stew—chuck or another economical stewing cut is ideal. Pat the beef dry using paper towels; this will help it brown nicely. After that, season the beef generously with salt and pepper. This foundational step ensures that your stew's flavor is well-balanced from the start.

Brown the Beef

Next, it's time to add some color! Heat a tablespoon of oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over high heat. Once it's hot, add the beef in a single layer—avoid crowding the pot, as that will prevent a good sear. Brown the beef for about four minutes on each side, allowing the Maillard reaction to work its magic. This tasty process is what gives your stew that rich flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

Now, using the same pot, reduce the heat a bit to allow it to cool. Melt half the butter and toss in your sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook for about three minutes until they soften and become fragrant. The combination of these aromatics will serve as the flavor backbone of your slow cooker beef stroganoff stew.

Make the Sauce Base

Time to thicken things up! Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and garlic, stirring it in. Then add Dijon mustard—this adds a lovely tanginess to your sauce. Gradually pour in about half of the beef stock while stirring, creating a smooth, thick gravy. If it gets lumpy, switch to a whisk to keep it lump-free. Once everything is dissolved, pour in the remaining stock and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Transfer to the Slow Cooker

Now that your base is ready, it’s time for the slow cooker! Transfer the gravy mixture into your slow cooker, then add the beautifully browned beef. Set it on low for about eight hours or high for about five, and let the flavors meld together until the beef is deliciously tender.

Prepare Garlic Butter Mushrooms

While the stew simmers away, let's prep some mushrooms! In another skillet, melt the remaining butter over high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until almost golden, around three minutes. Toss in minced garlic, salt, and pepper, and let them sauté until they're perfectly golden.

Incorporate the Sour Cream and Mushrooms

Once your beef is tender, it’s time to add the finishing touches. Mix the sour cream with a cup and a half of liquid from the slow cooker—this prevents any curdling. Gently fold the sour cream mixture and the sautéed mushrooms into the stew, being careful not to break up the tender beef. Serve it over noodles, mashed potatoes, or whatever you fancy, and enjoy the warmth of this slow cooker beef stroganoff stew!

With these simple steps, you’re on your way to creating a meal that’s sure to impress. Additionally, if you're looking for a side dish, consider checking out these quick and easy vegetable recipes to complement your hearty stew!

Variations of Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

Gluten-Free Option

Making your slow cooker beef stroganoff stew gluten-free is a breeze! Simply skip the flour that thickens this dish. Instead, mix 3 tablespoons of cornflour with a bit of beef broth to create a thickening slurry. Add this at the end of cooking along with your sour cream to achieve that creamy consistency without the gluten.

Adding Vegetables

Want to boost the nutrition of your slow cooker beef stroganoff stew? Consider adding in hearty vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even peas. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in with the beef before cooking. Not only will this add flavor, but it also gives your stew a colorful twist that makes it even more appealing! You can find other ideas for vegetable pairings here.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

Choosing the Right Cut of Beef

For the slow cooker beef stroganoff stew, selecting the proper beef cut is essential for achieving that dreamy tenderness. Cuts like chuck roast or beef brisket are ideal because they become melt-in-your-mouth tender when slow-cooked. Avoid lean cuts, as these can dry out and lack flavor.

Avoiding Lumps in Sauce

To prevent any unwanted lumps in your sauce, be sure to mix the flour with a bit of liquid before adding it to the stew. This step ensures a smooth and creamy texture. Remember, mixing the sour cream with a portion of the stew liquid first will help avoid those pesky sour cream specks in your final dish!

For more slow cooker tips, check out The Kitchn for expert advice!

Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

When it comes to serving your slow cooker beef stroganoff stew, the options are delightful and versatile!

Pairing with Noodles, Rice, or Mashed Potatoes

For a hearty meal, serve your stew over wide egg noodles or buttered rice, soaking up the rich, creamy sauce. If you're in the mood for comfort food, creamy mashed potatoes are the ultimate choice, providing a velvety base for those tender pieces of beef.

Garnishing Ideas

Don’t forget to elevate your dish with a sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley for a pop of color. You can also add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess. For a hint of freshness, a squeeze of lemon just before serving can brighten up those savory flavors.

By experimenting with these suggestions, you can create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion! For more inspiration, check out this link for ideas that complement your stew.

Time Breakdown for Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

Preparation Time
Getting started with your slow cooker beef stroganoff stew is simple! You’ll need about 15 minutes to prep your ingredients. Chop the beef, slice onions, and gather your seasonings.

Cooking Time
Once you're all set, the slow cooker takes care of the heavy lifting. Let your stew cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5 hours. Perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious meal without the effort!

Total Time
All in all, you'll spend around 8 hours and 15 minutes from prep to table. Ideal for setting up in the morning and coming home to a warm, hearty dinner!

For more tips on using your slow cooker, check out this guide for great ideas!

Nutritional Facts for Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

When you indulge in a comforting bowl of slow cooker beef stroganoff stew, it's helpful to know what’s fueling your delicious meal. Here's a breakdown of the key nutritional facts per serving!

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 666 calories, making it a hearty option for a filling dinner after a long day.

Protein

Packed with 59 grams of protein, this stew is a powerhouse of nourishment, perfect for muscle repair and overall health. Enjoy it after a workout or as part of a balanced meal.

Fat Content

With 44 grams of fat, including 19 grams of saturated fat, this dish offers a rich, creamy texture that pairs beautifully with wide egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Balance the meal with a side salad or steamed veggies for added fiber and nutrients!

For more detailed nutritional insights on healthy eating, check out Healthline. Remember, enjoying hearty meals in moderation is part of a healthy lifestyle!

FAQs about Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Absolutely! While chuck roast is a popular choice for slow cooker beef stroganoff stew, you can experiment with cuts like brisket or beef cheeks. Just remember, the key is to choose a cut that benefits from long, slow cooking to become tender.

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is a breeze! Place your slow cooker beef stroganoff stew in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. If you want to keep it even longer, freeze it for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw gently and handle it carefully, as the beef will be wonderfully tender.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, making this stew ahead of time can actually enhance the flavors! Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. The following day, simply reheat your slow cooker beef stroganoff stew on the stove or in the microwave, and enjoy! For tips on reheating, check out this article on leftover meal ideas.

Conclusion on Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Stew

In conclusion, this slow cooker beef stroganoff stew is an unbeatable choice for a cozy, hearty meal. Its melt-in-your-mouth beef and creamy sauce make it a family favorite. Perfect for meal prep, don’t forget to whip it up in advance, as it tastes even better the next day! For tips on storing and reheating, check out this helpful guide. Enjoy!