Classic Beef Stroganoff Recipe: A Comforting, Creamy Family Favorite

Beef Stroganoff is a timeless dish that combines tender slices of beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy, flavorful sauce served over egg noodles. This dish has its roots in Russian cuisine but has become a global comfort food favorite. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or an impressive dinner for guests, this Classic Beef Stroganoff recipe is sure to deliver bold flavors and creamy goodness in every bite.

In this article, you’ll find detailed, step-by-step instructions for making this delicious dish, plus tips, variations, and answers to common questions to help you achieve perfect results every time.

Why This Beef Stroganoff Recipe is a Winner

1. Creamy and Comforting: The combination of sour cream, Dijon mustard, and beef broth creates a luscious, velvety sauce that’s rich but not overwhelming.
2. Tender, Flavorful Beef: Searing the beef locks in its juices, making every bite tender and delicious.
3. Earthy Mushrooms and Aromatics: Sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and onions provide a savory base for the sauce, adding depth of flavor.
4. One-Skillet Simplicity: This dish comes together in a single skillet, making it convenient and easy to clean up.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Serve this dish to family or friends, and watch it disappear from the table in no time.

Now, let’s get started with the ingredients and directions to make this classic beef stroganoff.

Ingredients for Classic Beef Stroganoff

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this hearty dish:

• 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced (can substitute with flank steak or top round steak)
• 8 oz egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
• 1 cup sour cream (use full-fat for the creamiest texture)
• 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium is recommended for better seasoning control)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (for a subtle tang and depth of flavor)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini mushrooms work best)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp butter (unsalted for better control of salt levels)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

• Beef: Sirloin and tenderloin are ideal for their tenderness, but other cuts like flank steak or top round can work. Just make sure to slice them thinly against the grain.
• Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms offer a richer flavor, while white button mushrooms are a milder alternative.
• Sour Cream: Substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option or use plant-based sour cream for a dairy-free version.
• Egg Noodles: Feel free to substitute with rice, mashed potatoes, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tang, but can be replaced with grainy mustard or omitted if preferred.

How to Make Beef Stroganoff

Follow these steps to create a creamy, flavorful beef stroganoff that’s perfect every time:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Thinly slice the beef sirloin or tenderloin into strips about 1/4-inch thick.
2. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

1. Heat 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned beef strips in a single layer and sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned. Avoid overcrowding the skillet—cook in batches if necessary.
3. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. The beef will finish cooking in the sauce later.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp butter.
2. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and golden.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Sprinkle 2 tbsp all-purpose flour over the mushroom mixture. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly.
2. Gradually pour in 1 cup beef broth, whisking constantly to create a smooth, thickened sauce. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor.
3. Stir in 1 cup sour cream and 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, mixing until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Beef and Sauce

1. Return the seared beef strips to the skillet, along with any accumulated juices.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the beef is tender and warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the beef tough.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the beef stroganoff hot over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.

Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff

1. Don’t Overcook the Beef: Sear the beef quickly over high heat to lock in its juices. It will finish cooking in the sauce, so avoid overcooking during the initial sear.
2. Use Room-Temperature Sour Cream: Cold sour cream can curdle when added to the hot sauce. Let it come to room temperature before stirring it in.
3. Slice Beef Thinly: Thin slices cook quickly and stay tender. Always slice against the grain for the best texture.
4. Deglaze the Pan: Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet when adding the beef broth. These bits are packed with flavor.
5. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Stroganoff is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some serving ideas:

• Egg Noodles: The classic pairing, egg noodles soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make an excellent base for the rich stroganoff sauce.
• Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice is a hearty and neutral option.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or carrots for a well-rounded meal.
• Crusty Bread: Use slices of crusty bread to mop up every last drop of the sauce.

Variations to Try

This classic recipe can be customized to suit your tastes or dietary preferences:

1. Vegetarian Stroganoff: Replace beef with sautéed tofu, seitan, or extra mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
2. Low-Carb Stroganoff: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles.
3. Cheesy Stroganoff: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan or Gruyère cheese for an extra creamy, cheesy sauce.
4. Spicy Stroganoff: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
5. Dairy-Free Stroganoff: Use plant-based sour cream and butter, and substitute beef broth with mushroom broth.

Health Benefits of Beef Stroganoff

This dish isn’t just delicious—it also provides several nutritional benefits:

• High-Quality Protein: Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, which support muscle health and energy levels.
• Nutrient-Rich Mushrooms: Mushrooms are low in calories but rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Gut-Healthy Dairy: Sour cream adds probiotics to the dish, which are beneficial for gut health (opt for full-fat varieties for the best results).

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use flank steak, top round, or ribeye if sirloin or tenderloin isn’t available. Just ensure it’s thinly sliced for quick cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stroganoff ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

3. Can I freeze beef stroganoff?

Cream-based sauces can sometimes separate when frozen and reheated. If you plan to freeze, consider leaving out the sour cream and adding it fresh when reheating.

4. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. Use full-fat yogurt for the creamiest texture.

5. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

To avoid curdling, don’t boil the sauce after adding the sour cream. Keep the heat low and stir gently.

6. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes! Sear the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the sour cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender beef, creamy sauce, and savory mushrooms in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Whether served over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, this classic recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your household.

Gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy this timeless dish. With its creamy sauce and bold flavors, Beef Stroganoff is the perfect meal to share with family and friends. Happy cooking!

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