Introduction
Beef stroganoff is a classic dish that combines tender beef with a creamy sauce, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion. This recipe utilizes a slow cooker for easy preparation and results in melt-in-your-mouth beef that pairs wonderfully with egg noodles. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this hearty dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 2 tablespoons water
– 12 ounces egg noodles, cooked
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Prep Time
Preparation for this beef stroganoff recipe takes approximately 20 minutes. This includes cutting the beef, chopping the onion, slicing the mushrooms, and preparing the sauce.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cooking time for this dish is about 7-8 hours on low in the slow cooker, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for thickening the sauce. The total time from start to finish is approximately 8-9 hours. This recipe yields 6 servings, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.
Enjoy your delicious beef stroganoff served over egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley for an extra touch!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the beef cubes on all sides. Once browned, transfer the beef to a slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, sliced mushrooms, and minced garlic to the slow cooker containing the beef.
Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture
In a bowl, combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and bay leaf. Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Beef
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Make the Thickening Slurry
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this slurry into the slow cooker after the cooking time.
Step 6: Add Sour Cream
Add the sour cream to the slow cooker and stir until well combined with the mixture.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 8: Remove the Bay Leaf
Carefully remove the bay leaf from the slow cooker and discard it.
Step 9: Serve the Dish
Serve the beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover beef stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
This dish can also be frozen. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Adjusting Flavor
Feel free to adjust the amount of seasoning and mustard to suit your taste preferences. Adding a splash of white wine can also enhance the flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Browning the Meat
Browning the beef cubes in a large skillet over medium-high heat helps to develop rich flavors through the Maillard reaction. Ensure the meat is browned on all sides for the best taste in your dish.
Layering Ingredients
When placing ingredients in the slow cooker, add the vegetables (onion, mushrooms, and garlic) after the meat. This allows the meat to release its juices and flavor the vegetables as they cook.
Creating a Flavorful Sauce
Combine the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf in a bowl. This mixture serves as a flavorful base that will simmer with the meat and vegetables throughout the cooking process.
Making a Cornstarch Slurry
To thicken the sauce, mix cornstarch and water until smooth before adding it to the slow cooker. This helps prevent clumping and ensures a consistent texture in the final dish.
Incorporating Sour Cream
Adding sour cream towards the end of cooking gives the dish a creamy texture and adds richness. Stir it in well to incorporate it fully into the sauce.
Garnishing with Fresh Herbs
Chopped fresh parsley is a wonderful garnish that adds color and freshness to the dish. Sprinkle it on top of the beef stroganoff just before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use cuts like chuck roast or sirloin, but the cooking time may vary depending on the tenderness of the meat.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt or crème fraîche as a substitute for sour cream while maintaining a similar flavor and creaminess.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving over freshly cooked egg noodles.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this beef stroganoff freezes well. Just ensure it is cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.
What type of mushrooms work best?
Fresh button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms work well in this recipe, but you can also experiment with shiitake or portobello for added flavor.
Conclusion
This hearty beef stroganoff is a comforting dish that brings together tender beef, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, served over egg noodles. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker, making it an ideal recipe for busy days. The combination of flavors is sure to satisfy your taste buds and warm your heart.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Beef Tacos
Use the same beef stew meat, seasoned with taco spices, and serve in taco shells with your favorite toppings like salsa, cheese, and avocado.
Mushroom Risotto
Replace beef with sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable broth to create a creamy mushroom risotto, perfect for a vegetarian option.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Sauté the beef with broccoli, soy sauce, and ginger for a quick and flavorful stir-fry served over rice.
Beef Chili
Transform your stew meat into a hearty chili by adding beans, tomatoes, and chili spices, simmered until rich and thick.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Mix the cooked beef mixture with rice and stuff it into bell peppers, then bake until the peppers are tender.
Creamy Beef Pasta Bake
Combine the beef stroganoff mixture with cooked penne pasta, top with cheese, and bake until bubbling for a delicious pasta bake.
