Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Cook Time: 280 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe is designed to yield 5 servings. Ingredient amounts are automatically adjusted, but cooking times and steps remain unchanged. Note that not all recipes scale perfectly.

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 (10.5-ounce) can beef consomm
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 8 ounces plain Greek yogurt
• 4 ounces whipped cream cheese
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 3 3/4 cups egg noodles
• 2 tablespoons beef broth (or as needed)

Directions

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir the ground beef in the hot skillet for 5 to 7 minutes, until it is browned and crumbly. Once done, transfer the beef to a slow cooker.

Add butter to the same skillet. Stir in the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms, cooking for about 3 minutes, or until the onions soften. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer this onion and mushroom mixture into the slow cooker, then stir everything to combine.

Next, pour the beef consomm into the slow cooker. Stir in the tomato paste, Greek yogurt, whipped cream cheese, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Cover the slow cooker and cook on High for 4 hours.

After the cooking time has passed, add the dry egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir them in, then cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.

If the stroganoff appears too dry, gradually stir in beef broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving:

• Calories: 578
• Total Fat: 29g (37% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 13g (63% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 147mg (49% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 614mg (27% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 40g (15% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 3g (11% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 39g (78% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 5mg (5% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 132mg (10% Daily Value)
• Iron: 6mg (32% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 905mg (19% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story and Cultural Background of Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff has its roots in 19th-century Russia, named after the influential Stroganov family. Originally, it was made with tender strips of beef sauted and served in a rich, creamy sauce with sour cream. The dish gained international popularity as Russian migrs spread their cuisine across Europe and North America. Over time, adaptations using more accessible ingredients, like ground beef, emerged, making this comforting dish more budget-friendly and easier to prepare in households worldwide.

Regional Variations

While the classic Russian version uses strips of beef, onions, mushrooms, and sour cream, different regions have added their own twists. In the United States, for example, Stroganoff is often served with egg noodles and can include tomato paste or Worcestershire sauce for deeper flavor. Scandinavian countries sometimes include mustard or pickles for a tangy note, while in Canada, a quick version with ground beef and cream cheese has become a family favorite for weeknight dinners.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Though it may resemble other creamy beef and noodle dishes, Stroganoff is distinct because of its signature sour cream-based sauce and combination of mushrooms and onions. Unlike beef bourguignon or goulash, which are slow-simmered in wine or paprika sauces, Stroganoff relies on dairy for richness and a slightly tangy taste. The ground beef version simplifies the texture but retains the essence of the traditional recipe.

Where It Is Commonly Served

Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food often served at family dinners, potlucks, and casual gatherings. Its convenience makes it perfect for busy households, especially when prepared in a slow cooker and kept warm for extended periods. Many restaurants that feature American comfort cuisine also include variations of Stroganoff on their menu, typically served over egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

Interesting Facts

• The dish gained major popularity in the United States after World War II, when canned and processed ingredients became more widely available.
• The slow cooker adaptation allows the flavors to meld gradually, giving ground beef Stroganoff a rich, deep taste similar to the traditional version.
• Modern versions often substitute Greek yogurt or cream cheese for sour cream, creating a lighter, tangier flavor while maintaining the creamy texture.
• Despite its Russian origins, Stroganoff has become a global comfort food, with each country adapting it to local tastes and ingredients.

FAQ about Slow Cooker Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe