Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
Indulge in this comforting and creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff that melts in your mouth. Inspired by a classic recipe, this dish features tender chunks of beef stew meat simmered alongside onions and a rich blend of soups, creating a savory sauce that is both hearty and satisfying. The addition of cream cheese and sour cream adds a luxurious texture. Perfect for those busy weeknights, just throw everything in the crock pot and let it do the magic! If you're dealing with mushroom skeptics, simply blend the mushrooms for a smoother experience that even the pickiest eaters will enjoy. Serve over hot noodles or rice for a complete meal that the whole family will love.
6-8 servings
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef stew meat
2 lbs (cut into chunks)
onion
1 large (chopped (about 1 cup))
condensed cream of mushroom soup
1 can (undiluted)
condensed cream of onion soup
1 can (undiluted)
sliced mushrooms
1 (8 ounce) can (drained)
pepper
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
cream cheese
1 (8 ounce) container (cubed)
sour cream
1 (8 ounce) container (none)
hot cooked noodles or rice
6 cups (for serving)
Instructions
1
In a large slow cooker, combine the beef stew meat, chopped onion, cream of mushroom soup, cream of onion soup, drained sliced mushrooms, and pepper. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
2
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours, or until the beef is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
3
Once the beef is tender, add the cubed cream cheese and sour cream to the slow cooker. Stir the mixture until the cream cheese is thoroughly melted and incorporated into the sauce.
4
Serve the creamy beef mixture over the hot cooked noodles or rice, and enjoy your delicious meal!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff?
It is a comforting dish featuring tender beef chunks simmered in a savory mushroom and onion sauce, finished with cream cheese and sour cream.
What cut of meat is used in this recipe?
This recipe uses 2 pounds of beef stew meat cut into chunks for a hearty texture.
How long does the beef stroganoff need to cook?
The dish should be cooked on low heat for 8 to 10 hours until the beef is very tender.
Can I cook this on high heat instead of low?
While low heat is recommended for the best tenderness, you can cook it on high for 4 to 5 hours.
What types of canned soup are required?
You will need one can of condensed cream of mushroom soup and one can of condensed cream of onion soup.
Should I dilute the condensed soups?
No, use the condensed soups undiluted to ensure the sauce remains thick and creamy.
What if I have picky eaters who dislike mushrooms?
You can blend the mushrooms into the sauce mixture before cooking to provide the flavor without the texture.
What are the recommended serving sides?
This beef stroganoff is traditionally served over 6 cups of hot cooked noodles or rice.
When should I add the dairy ingredients?
The cream cheese and sour cream should be stirred in at the very end once the beef is fully cooked and tender.
Do I need to drain the canned mushrooms?
Yes, the 8-ounce can of sliced mushrooms should be drained before being added to the slow cooker.
How much onion is needed?
The recipe calls for one large chopped onion, which equals approximately 1 cup.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe is designed to serve between 6 and 8 people.
Do I need to brown the beef before putting it in the crock pot?
No, browning is not necessary for this recipe, making it a quick and easy prep.
Can I substitute sour cream with something else?
Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream if preferred.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can this beef stroganoff be frozen?
Yes, though the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing; stir well while reheating to restore the texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free condensed soups and serve over rice or certified gluten-free noodles.
What extra seasonings can I add?
While the recipe uses pepper, you can add garlic powder or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for additional flavor.
How much cream cheese is required?
The recipe uses one 8-ounce container of cream cheese, cubed for easier melting.
Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Yes, you can substitute 8 ounces of fresh sliced mushrooms for the canned version.
What is the best way to reheat the stroganoff?
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has become too thick.
What kind of noodles work best?
Wide egg noodles are the classic and preferred choice for serving with beef stroganoff.
Can I use ground beef for this recipe?
Yes, but you should brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain the grease before adding it to the slow cooker.
What if I cannot find cream of onion soup?
You can substitute it with an additional can of cream of mushroom soup or a can of cream of celery soup.
Is this recipe considered a hearty meal?
Yes, the combination of beef, cream cheese, and noodles makes it a very filling and hearty comfort food.
Is this a good meal for a busy workday?
Absolutely, the long 8-10 hour cook time on low is perfect for starting in the morning and having dinner ready when you return.
Can I use a slow cooker liner?
Yes, using a liner is recommended to make cleanup faster and easier after cooking.
Should the beef be easy to shred?
Yes, after 8 to 10 hours of slow cooking, the beef stew meat should easily shred with a fork.
Do I need to add water or beef broth?
No extra liquid is needed as the soups and meat juices provide plenty of sauce.
Should I stir the mixture during the cooking process?
It is best to leave the lid closed to maintain heat, only stirring once at the end when adding the dairy.