Craving a hearty, flavorful, yet surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further than this slow cooker beef stroganoff recipe! This twist on a classic uses ground beef for a quicker, simpler approach, perfect for busy weeknights. Forget complicated techniques and lengthy prep times – this recipe delivers all the rich, creamy goodness of traditional stroganoff with minimal effort. It's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Let’s dive into this delicious and satisfying meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease. This step adds depth of flavor to your stroganoff.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step elevates the overall taste profile.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker
Transfer the ground beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, beef broth, dill, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the flavors have melded beautifully. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to deepen and the beef to become incredibly tender.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles and Serve
While the stroganoff simmers, cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them and add them to the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine the noodles and the creamy stroganoff sauce. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and ground chuck.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
- Add mushrooms: Sauté 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with the onions for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Make it ahead: This stroganoff tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.
Variations:
- Chicken Stroganoff: Substitute ground chicken for the ground beef.
- Creamy Tomato Stroganoff: Replace the cream of mushroom soup with cream of tomato soup for a tangy twist.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate frozen peas or carrots during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: Approximately 25-30g Fat: Approximately 20-25g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This slow cooker beef stroganoff recipe is a perfect example of how delicious and healthy meals can also be incredibly easy to prepare. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, offering a comforting and flavorful dinner without sacrificing your time. Enjoy this satisfying and flavorful dish!