Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff Recipe
When you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, this Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff is a standout choice.
I love how it combines tender venison with rich flavors, creating a dish that warms my soul. The slow cooking method means I can set it and forget it, allowing me to focus on other things while it simmers to perfection.
Plus, it’s versatile—I can serve it over egg noodles or even mashed potatoes.
Every bite is a delightful balance of savory and creamy, making it a go-to comfort food for any occasion. Trust me, you’ll adore it!
Ingredients of Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff
When it comes to making a delicious Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff, the right ingredients are key to achieving that rich, comforting flavor we all crave. This dish is filled with hearty ingredients that work beautifully together, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or even a gathering with friends.
The blend of tender venison, savory spices, and creamy sour cream creates a dish that’s hard to resist. Plus, with how easy it’s to throw together, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try this sooner.
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this hearty meal:
- 2-3 lbs venison (stew meat)
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 2 (28-ounce) cans water
- 5 teaspoons minced garlic
- 4 teaspoons salt
- 3 teaspoons pepper
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons thyme
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 1/2 lbs wide egg noodles, uncooked
- Vegetable oil (for browning the meat)
Now, let’s talk about some considerations when gathering your ingredients. Venison is a lean meat, which means it can cook a little differently than beef. If you’re new to cooking with venison, don’t worry—it’s quite forgiving!
Just remember that it benefits from slow cooking to really bring out its flavors. Also, if you’re not a fan of red wine or don’t have any on hand, you can substitute it with beef broth or even a splash of vinegar for acidity.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, adding some mushrooms could take the dish to a whole new level of yumminess. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Make Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff
Making a mouthwatering Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff is simpler than you might think, and trust me, your taste buds will thank you. To start, grab 2-3 lbs of venison stew meat. If you’re wondering how to cut it, aim for bite-sized pieces. They don’t have to be perfect—this isn’t a cooking competition after all.
Once that’s done, dredge the meat in some flour. This little step helps create a nice crust when you brown it, which adds tons of flavor. Heat up a splash of vegetable oil in a pan, toss in the meat, and let it sizzle with a medium chopped onion. Brown that meat until it’s got a lovely color—think golden-brown deliciousness.
Now, transfer the browned meat and onion to your trusty crock pot. It’s time to bring some magic into the mix. Add in 5 teaspoons of minced garlic, 4 teaspoons of salt, 3 teaspoons of pepper, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 2 teaspoons of paprika, and 2 teaspoons of thyme.
Oh, and don’t forget the 1 cup of red wine—this is where the richness really starts to unfold. Pour in 28 ounces of crushed tomatoes along with 2 (28-ounce) cans of water. Give it a gentle stir, and then set your crock pot to low for 4-5 hours. The wait might feel long, but just think of all the savory aromas wafting through your kitchen.
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in 2 cups of sour cream to create that creamy, dreamy texture we all adore. While that’s happening, boil 1 ½ lbs of wide egg noodles according to package directions. Serve that velvety venison stroganoff over the noodles, and prepare for everyone to dig in like they haven’t eaten in days.
And there you have it! A cozy meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day. I mean, who doesn’t love a dish that makes you feel like a culinary genius without having to put in hours of work?
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends or family, even if you might’ve spent half the time wondering whether you should have added more garlic. (Spoiler: you can never go wrong with garlic.) So, gather your ingredients, set that crock pot, and get ready to enjoy a hearty bowl of venison stroganoff that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff Substitutions & Variations
You’ve got a delicious Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff recipe under your belt, but what if you want to switch things up a bit?
I love experimenting with different proteins, so try substituting the venison with beef or turkey for a new flavor profile. You can also swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
If you’re looking for a veggie boost, add mushrooms or spinach. For a gluten-free option, replace the egg noodles with zucchini noodles or rice.
Each variation keeps the essence of stroganoff while adding a unique touch to your meal!
What to Serve with Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff
What pairs perfectly with a hearty bowl of Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff? I love serving it with a side of buttery garlic bread. It’s great for soaking up that delicious sauce!
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the richness of the stroganoff nicely. If I’m in the mood for something heartier, I’ll whip up some roasted vegetables or buttery mashed potatoes.
And don’t forget a glass of red wine! It enhances the flavors of the dish and makes for a cozy meal. Trust me, these pairings elevate your dining experience to a whole new level!
Additional Tips & Notes
When enjoying Crock Pot Venison Stroganoff, having a few tips up your sleeve can make the experience even better.
First, don’t skip browning the meat; it adds depth of flavor. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a bit of cornstarch with water and stir it in during the final 30 minutes.
For a richer taste, consider using beef broth instead of water. Also, feel free to experiment with mushrooms or fresh herbs for added dimension.
Ultimately, serve it with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Trust me, you’ll want every last bite!