Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a beloved comfort dish featuring tender strips of beef simmered in a creamy, savory mushroom and sour cream sauce. Traditionally served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, this classic recipe delivers a rich and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients

• Rich, creamy flavor with a savory umami profile

• Family-friendly and universally appealing

• Easy to customize with different proteins or dietary preferences

• Perfect for both casual dinners and elegant meals

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Beef (top sirloin or tenderloin), thinly sliced

• Olive oil

• Unsalted butter

• Onion, finely chopped

• Brown mushrooms, sliced

• Garlic cloves, minced

• All-purpose flour

• Beef broth

• Heavy whipping cream

• Sour cream

• Worcestershire sauce

• Dijon mustard

• Salt and black pepper

• Egg noodles (or preferred base for serving)

Directions

1. Slice the beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches for 1–2 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions until soft. Add mushrooms and cook until browned and tender. Add garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture, stirring for one minute. Gradually pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until the sauce thickens.

5. Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes until heated through.

7. Serve over egg noodles or another base of your choice.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Chicken Stroganoff: Replace beef with sliced chicken breast or thigh for a lighter version.

• Vegetarian Version: Use mushrooms, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives.

• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of hot paprika or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

• Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free sour cream and cream alternatives.

• Gluten-Free: Substitute flour with cornstarch and use gluten-free noodles.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

FAQs

What kind of beef is best for Stroganoff?

Tender cuts like sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye are ideal because they cook quickly and remain tender.

Can I make Beef Stroganoff in advance?

Yes, prepare the sauce and beef, store them separately, and combine just before serving for best results.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche are suitable substitutes.

Is Beef Stroganoff gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using cornstarch instead of flour and gluten-free noodles.

Can I freeze Beef Stroganoff?

Freezing is not ideal due to the dairy content, which may separate upon thawing.

What are the best side dishes for Stroganoff?

Egg noodles, mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread pair well with the creamy sauce.

How do I avoid curdling the sauce?

Do not boil the sauce after adding sour cream. Keep the heat low and stir gently.

Can I use canned mushrooms?

Fresh mushrooms are preferred for flavor and texture, but canned can be used in a pinch.

How do I thicken the sauce?

If needed, add a slurry of cornstarch and cold water during simmering until the desired thickness is reached.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of beef broth or cream to loosen the sauce without compromising flavor.

Conclusion

Beef Stroganoff is a timeless classic that combines tender beef with a rich and creamy mushroom sauce, creating a comforting dish the whole family will enjoy. With its quick preparation, versatile ingredients, and delicious results, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll return to time and again. Whether served over noodles, rice, or potatoes, it’s always a satisfying meal.