Step-by-step instructions
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the stewing beef with salt and pepper, then brown it in small batches, ensuring a nice crust develops.
- Once browned, deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up all those flavorful bits. Transfer this mixture to your slow cooker.
- In the slow cooker, add the browned beef, garlic powder, diced onion, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, sliced mushrooms, and 1½ cups of beef broth.
- Cook on high for 4-5 hours, or on low for 7-8 hours, until the beef is tender and starts to fall apart.
- In a bowl, mix the remaining ½ cup of beef broth with cornstarch until smooth. Pour this mixture into the slow cooker, stir well, cover, and cook for an additional 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Just before serving, stir in the sour cream to create that creamy texture. Serve the beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles for a delightful meal.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff, there are plenty of delicious options. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Over Egg Noodles: The classic pairing that never disappoints.
- With Rice: If you want to mix it up, serve it over fluffy rice for a different texture.
- With Crusty Bread: A slice of fresh bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
- Garnish: Sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers as tasty as the first serving, here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover beef stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: If you want to keep it longer, this dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: The best way to reheat is on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it; just cover the container to retain moisture.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are some insider tips to elevate your beef stroganoff:
- Quality meat: Choosing good-quality beef will enhance the overall taste and texture.
- Deglazing is key: Don’t skip the deglazing step! It adds incredible depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Cook time adjustments: If you’re in a hurry, the high setting is effective, but for better flavor development, use the low setting.
Creative twists
Feel like trying something different? Here are some variations you can explore:
- Mushroom Lover’s Dream: Add more mushrooms or try different varieties like portobello for richer flavor.
- Herbaceous Delight: Enhance the dish with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary added during the last hour of cooking.
- Kick of Spice: Add a dash of cayenne or paprika for a little heat, or stir in some crushed red pepper flakes.
Common questions
How long does it take to prep this recipe?
Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, with most of the time focused on browning the beef and chopping ingredients.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Substitute with boneless chicken thighs or breasts for a lighter version of this classic dish.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, once cooled completely, it freezes well. Just ensure you store it in an airtight container.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with this delicious Crock Pot Beef Stroganoff—it’s the kind of meal that brings smiles and warmth to the dinner table!
