If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out, this Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff with Garlic Butter Mushrooms and Creamy Sauce Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef cubes slow-cooked to perfection in a rich, creamy sauce with a burst of flavor from garlic butter mushrooms—each bite brings a symphony of textures and tastes that feel both luxurious and homey. It’s a dish that turns any day into a special occasion with its lovely balance of savory richness and silky smoothness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple yet incredibly effective ingredients. Each component carries a role, whether it’s building layers of flavor or giving the dish that irresistible, velvety texture. You don’t need a long list; just a handful of staples that combine into something truly magical.
- Beef chuck or stewing beef (1.75kg / 3.5lb): Perfect for slow cooking, this cut becomes tender and flavorful after hours of gentle simmering.
- Salt and pepper (1.5 tsp each plus extra for mushrooms): Basics that season the meat and mushrooms, enhancing every bite.
- Oil (2 tbsp): For browning the beef and developing rich, caramelized flavors.
- Unsalted butter (20 g + 3 tbsp): Adds creaminess and richness, especially in the garlic butter mushrooms.
- Large onion (1, sliced): Brings sweetness and depth to the stew.
- Garlic cloves (7 total, minced): Essential to make those garlic butter mushrooms sing and add aromatic warmth.
- Plain/all-purpose flour (7 tbsp): Thickens the sauce for that classic stroganoff creaminess.
- Dijon mustard (4 tbsp): Adds a subtle tangy punch that balances the richness beautifully.
- Reduced salt beef stock (1 litre): Forms the hearty base of the sauce while keeping saltiness in check.
- Full-fat sour cream (1.5 cups): Creates an indulgently creamy, slightly tangy finish to the sauce.
- Mushrooms (700 g, sliced): Sautéed in garlic butter to deliver an earthy, flavorful complement.
- Wide egg noodles, pasta, or mashed potatoes: The perfect vehicle to soak up all that luscious sauce.
- Chives for garnish: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and lovely color contrast.
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff with Garlic Butter Mushrooms and Creamy Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Season and Brown the Beef
First, pat your beef cubes dry to ensure a good sear, then season them evenly with salt and pepper. Heat oil over high heat in a heavy-based pot or skillet, and brown the beef in batches without overcrowding. This step locks in juices and creates a beautiful caramelized crust that brings incredible flavor depth to your stroganoff.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
After browning the beef, melt half the butter in the same pot to soak up those fond flavors. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions, cooking for about three minutes until fragrant and softened. This builds a savory foundation, ready to mingle with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Create the Roux and Add Dijon Mustard
Sprinkle the flour evenly over the garlic and onions, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Dijon mustard and mix until the texture looks gluey—don’t worry, it will dissolve once the stock is added. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce and adding a subtle tang to complement the beef.
Step 4: Incorporate Beef Stock and Simmer
Gradually pour in half the beef stock while stirring to smooth out the mixture. Add the rest of the stock and stir well, scraping up any bits stuck to the pot. Bring this to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors start to meld together before transferring to your slow cooker.
Step 5: Slow Cook the Beef
Transfer the liquid and the browned beef cubes to your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for about 8 hours or on HIGH for 5 hours until the beef is tender and nearly falling apart. This low-and-slow method ensures maximum tenderness and flavor development, producing the heart of your stroganoff’s luscious sauce.
Step 6: Prepare Garlic Butter Mushrooms
While the beef is cooking, melt half the butter in a large skillet over high heat. Add half the mushrooms and cook until nearly golden, about 3 minutes. Toss in half the minced garlic, salt, and pepper, cooking until mushrooms are fully golden. Repeat with the remaining butter, mushrooms, and garlic. These garlic butter mushrooms add a burst of umami and richness that elevates the dish to new heights.
Step 7: Finish the Stroganoff with Sour Cream and Mushrooms
Once your beef is ready, mix the sour cream with about 1.5 cups of cooking liquid from the slow cooker, then gently stir it back into the stew. This creates the signature creamy sauce that coats every tender piece of beef. Carefully fold in the garlic butter mushrooms, integrating all those wonderful flavors just before serving.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff with Garlic Butter Mushrooms and Creamy Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped chives is the perfect finishing touch. Their mild onion flavor adds freshness and color, making each serving look as inviting as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Serve this stroganoff over wide egg noodles for a classic experience, or switch it up with pasta or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up that indulgent sauce. The choice is yours and each complements the slow cooker beef stroganoff with garlic butter mushrooms and creamy sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the stroganoff in individual mini cast-iron skillets or rustic bowls. Add a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables for contrast. Alternatively, spoon it into puff pastry shells for a charming twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this slow cooker beef stroganoff with garlic butter mushrooms and creamy sauce recipe for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags to preserve freshness and prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the sour cream from curdling, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While chuck is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling and tenderness, you can also try brisket or short ribs for rich flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply skip the flour or replace it with a gluten-free thickener such as cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend. The Instant Pot method naturally avoids flour if you like a gluten-free option.
Can I prepare this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
Definitely! After browning and building your sauce, simmer the beef gently on low heat for about two hours on the stovetop, checking occasionally for tenderness.
What mushrooms work best for this recipe?
Cremini or white button mushrooms are perfect due to their firm texture and ability to absorb flavors well when sautéed in garlic butter.
Can I substitute the sour cream with something else?
You can swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or crème fraîche, but add it at the end and gently to avoid curdling and preserve the creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff with Garlic Butter Mushrooms and Creamy Sauce Recipe is truly a soul-soothing meal that brings comfort food to the next level. Sharing this with friends and family feels like wrapping everyone in a warm, flavorful hug. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the slow-cooked magic from your own kitchen!
