Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a classic Russian dish that combines tender beef strips with a rich and creamy sour cream sauce. This comforting and flavorful recipe is perfect for a quick dinner or a special family meal. Serve it over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty and satisfying dish.

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings
Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450 g) beef, cut into thin strips (preferably sirloin or tenderloin)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) beef broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Directions

  1. Prepare the Beef:
    • Season the beef strips with salt and black pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Sear the beef strips in batches for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Cook the Aromatics:
    • In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 2–3 minutes.
    • Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 4–5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
  3. Add the Seasonings:
    • Sprinkle paprika over the mushroom mixture and stir well. Add the Dijon mustard and beef broth, mixing to combine.
  4. Simmer the Sauce:
    • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Cook for 3–4 minutes, ensuring the sauce is smooth and well combined.
  5. Combine and Serve:
    • Return the seared beef strips to the skillet. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over buttered egg noodles for a traditional pairing.
  • Pair with steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or dill for added flavor and presentation.
  • Add a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
  • Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Cooking Tips

  • Use tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for the best results.
  • Do not overcook the beef to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
  • For a thicker sauce, simmer slightly longer or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water).
  • Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

  • High in protein from the beef.
  • Rich in calcium and probiotics from the sour cream.
  • Mushrooms add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Dietary Information

  • Gluten-Free (ensure beef broth is gluten-free)
  • Not suitable for dairy-free diets unless sour cream is substituted.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

  • Calories: ~350
  • Protein: 28 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fat: 24 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Sugar: 2 g

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
  • Freeze: Not recommended due to the sour cream, which may separate upon thawing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
  • Rich, creamy, and full of comforting flavors.
  • Customizable with your choice of side dishes.
  • Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Conclusion
Beef Stroganoff is a timeless classic that delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. With its tender beef and creamy sauce, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try this recipe today for a meal that’s both elegant and easy to make!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different type of beef?
Yes, ribeye or striploin can be used, but avoid tough cuts like chuck unless slow-cooked.

2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream.

3. Can I add wine to the recipe?
Yes, deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup of dry white wine after cooking the onions and mushrooms.

4. What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, or a mixture of heavy cream and lemon juice works well.

5. Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Peas, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions.

6. Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce and seared beef separately. Combine and heat just before serving.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Cook on low heat and avoid boiling after adding the sour cream.

8. Can I use ground beef instead of strips?
Yes, ground beef is a quicker and budget-friendly alternative.

9. Can I serve this dish cold?
While it’s best served warm, leftovers can be chilled and used as a pasta salad topping.

10. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?
If needed, use a cornstarch slurry or simmer the sauce longer to reduce.