Slow Cooker Venison Stroganoff: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this Slow Cooker Venison Stroganoff recipe! Bursting with savory flavors and tender chunks of venison, this comforting dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure and learn how to make the ultimate venison stroganoff!
Introduction
Venison, with its rich flavor and lean profile, is a fantastic protein option for hearty dishes like stroganoff. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to transform tender venison stew meat into a mouthwatering stroganoff using the convenience of a slow cooker. Creamy mushroom sauce, aromatic spices, and perfectly cooked egg noodles come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Whether you’re a venison enthusiast or looking to try something new, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- Meat:
- 1 lb Venison stew meat
- Produce:
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- Canned Goods:
- 1 (10.5 ounce) can Condensed cream of mushroom soup
- Pasta & Grains:
- 1 (16 ounce) package Egg noodles
- Baking & Spices:
- 1 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Black pepper, ground
- 1 tsp Salt
- Oils & Vinegars:
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
- Liquids:
- 1 cup Water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Venison
- In a bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over the venison stew meat.
Step 2: Brown the Venison
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned venison to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the venison to the slow cooker.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the condensed cream of mushroom soup and water until smooth.
- Pour the soup mixture over the browned venison in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Cook Low and Slow
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or until the venison is tender and cooked through.
Step 5: Cook the Egg Noodles
- About 30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)
- If desired, to thicken the sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry.
- Stir the slurry into the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve the venison stroganoff over a bed of cooked egg noodles.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade venison stroganoff!
Cook Notes and Variations
- Add Vegetables: For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding sliced mushrooms, diced onions, or chopped bell peppers to the slow cooker along with the venison.
- Creamy Variation: If you prefer a creamier sauce, substitute half of the water with beef broth and add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the sauce before serving.
- Spice it Up: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sauce mixture.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Can I use other cuts of venison for this recipe? A: Absolutely! While stew meat works well for this recipe, you can also use other cuts of venison such as tenderloin or sirloin. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly as different cuts may require different cooking times.
Q: Can I make this recipe keto-friendly? A: Yes! Simply omit the egg noodles or substitute them with low-carb alternatives such as zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a keto-friendly version of venison stroganoff.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, venison stroganoff freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly version of this Slow Cooker Venison Stroganoff, omit the egg noodles altogether or substitute them with low-carb alternatives such as zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Additionally, ensure the condensed cream of mushroom soup used is keto-friendly or consider making a homemade keto-friendly cream sauce.
Low-Carb Version
To make a low-carb version of this dish, use low-carb egg noodles or skip the noodles altogether and serve the venison stroganoff over a bed of sautéed spinach, cauliflower rice, or mashed cauliflower.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Venison Stroganoff is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions. With its tender chunks of venison, creamy mushroom sauce, and perfectly cooked egg noodles, it’s a dish that’s sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving some comfort food, this recipe is a winner every time. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal that’s sure to impress!