Introduction

This classic Beef Stroganoff recipe delivers tender strips of beef in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, served over egg noodles for the ultimate comfort food. If you enjoy beef-based casseroles, you might also like this Ground Beef and Rice Casserole | Easy Dinner Idea Recipe or these Beef and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe for more hearty meal options.

Ingredients

This classic Beef Stroganoff recipe delivers tender beef and a rich, creamy sauce with a satisfying depth of flavor that’s both comforting and elegant.

• 1 ½ pounds beef sirloin (or tenderloin), thinly sliced
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Beef Stroganoff recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes, making it perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Beef

Slice 1.5 pounds of beef sirloin against the grain into thin, ¼-inch strips. This ensures tender Beef Stroganoff. Pat the beef completely dry with paper towels to promote proper browning.

Step 2 — Season and Dust the Beef

Season the beef strips generously with salt and black pepper. Lightly dust them with all-purpose flour, tossing to coat evenly. This flour will help thicken the sauce later.

Step 3 — Sear the Beef

Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, sear the beef for about 1–2 minutes per side until browned but not cooked through. Remove the beef and set aside.

Step 4 — Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and cook 1 diced onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add 8 ounces of sliced cremini mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and begin to brown, roughly 8 minutes.

Step 5 — Create the Sauce Base

Stir in 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 6 — Simmer and Thicken

Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 5 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream and 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 7 — Combine and Finish Cooking

Return the seared beef and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, just until the beef is cooked to your desired doneness and the sauce has thickened. Do not boil.

Step 8 — Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Taste the Beef Stroganoff and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. For best results, serve immediately over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Nutritional Information

Calories	485
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	18g
Fat	29g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey or Chicken — A leaner protein option that still absorbs the rich, savory sauce flavors beautifully.
• Mushrooms (Portobello or Cremini) — A hearty, plant-based alternative offering a meaty texture and umami depth, perfect for a vegetarian Beef Stroganoff.
• Greek Yogurt or Light Sour Cream — Swapping traditional sour cream for these options reduces fat while maintaining the classic creamy tang.
• Coconut Milk or Cashew Cream — A rich, dairy-free alternative that creates a luxuriously smooth sauce without compromising on creaminess.
• Gluten-Free Flour or Cornstarch — Use these to thicken the sauce, making your Beef Stroganoff completely gluten-free.
• Zucchini Noodles or Spaghetti Squash — A fresh, lower-carb base that pairs wonderfully with the stroganoff sauce, lightening up the dish.
• Low-Sodium Broth & Mustard — Controlling the salt by using reduced-sodium broth and mustard allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.
• Lentils or Chickpeas — A fiber-rich, plant-based protein swap that adds heartiness and works well with the creamy stroganoff seasoning.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve your Beef Stroganoff over a bed of egg noodles for the classic pairing that soaks up the rich sauce perfectly.
• For a lighter option, pair this Beef Stroganoff with steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes.
• Elevate your plating by garnishing with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
• This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or as an impressive main course for entertaining guests.
• Complete the meal with a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the stroganoff.
• For a special occasion, serve in a shallow bowl to showcase the creamy sauce and tender beef.

Whether for a weeknight meal or a dinner party, these serving ideas will make your Beef Stroganoff a memorable dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using lean stew meat. Fix: Opt for well-marbled sirloin or ribeye for a tender, juicy Beef Stroganoff.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pan when searing. Fix: Sear beef in a single layer to achieve a proper brown crust, not steam.
• Mistake: Skipping the fond deglazing. Fix: Scrape the flavorful browned bits from the pan with wine or broth for a richer sauce.
• Mistake: Adding sour cream directly to high heat. Fix: Temper it with a bit of hot sauce first to prevent curdling your Beef Stroganoff.
• Mistake: Overcooking the mushrooms. Fix: Sauté them until golden brown to develop deep flavor, not until they release all their liquid.
• Mistake: Using the wrong cut of pasta. Fix: Serve your Beef Stroganoff over wide egg noodles or rice to best cradle the creamy sauce.
• Mistake: Rushing the sauce thickening. Fix: Let the sauce simmer gently to reduce and thicken properly for the ideal consistency.
• Mistake: Overseasoning at the start. Fix: Season at the end, as the sauce reduces and concentrates, to avoid an overly salty dish.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Beef Stroganoff completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Store in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Always use shallow containers for quicker cooling and more even reheating of your Beef Stroganoff.

Conclusion

This classic Beef Stroganoff recipe delivers rich, creamy comfort in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Give this Beef Stroganoff a try and share your results in the comments below!

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FAQs

What cut of beef is best for Beef Stroganoff?

Use tender cuts like sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye for the best Beef Stroganoff. These cuts cook quickly and remain tender, ensuring your stroganoff is not tough. Avoid tougher cuts that require long braising.

Can I make Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Beef Stroganoff ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

What can I substitute for sour cream in Beef Stroganoff?

Greek yogurt or crème fraîche are excellent substitutes for sour cream in Beef Stroganoff. Both provide a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Stir them in at the end over low heat to prevent curdling.