There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm, hearty bowl of comfort food, and French Onion Beef Stroganoff takes this experience to the next level. This recipe is a beautiful blend of two beloved classics: the rich, caramelized flavors of French onion soup and the creamy, comforting decadence of traditional beef stroganoff. It’s a dish that warms your heart, pleases your palate, and satisfies your cravings all at once.
Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, French Onion Beef Stroganoff combines tender beef, sweet onions, and savory beef broth with creamy sour cream and Parmesan cheese. The addition of crispy French-fried onions and fresh parsley as a garnish elevates the dish with texture and a burst of freshness. Served over a bed of perfectly cooked egg noodles, it’s a meal that feels like a warm embrace in every bite.
This recipe is timeless because it takes familiar ingredients and transforms them into something extraordinary. It’s a dish that brings families together around the table, sparking conversations and creating memories. Whether you’re an experienced home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is easy to follow, endlessly adaptable, and sure to become a cherished favorite in your household.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided – For searing the beef and sautéing the onions.
- 1 pound beef stew meat – Tender chunks of beef that soak up the savory flavors.
- 1 ½ cups thinly sliced sweet onion – Adds a caramelized sweetness to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- 1 (32-ounce) carton lower sodium beef broth – The base of the rich and savory sauce.
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed French onion soup – Enhances the depth of flavor with a touch of sweetness and umami.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – Adds a subtle kick to balance the flavors.
- 2/3 cup sour cream – Provides creaminess and tang to the sauce.
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, savory element to the sauce.
- 1 (12-ounce) package wide or medium egg noodles – The perfect base to soak up the creamy, savory sauce.
- 1 (2.8-ounce) can French-fried onions – For a crispy topping that adds texture and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley – For garnish and a burst of freshness.
Steps to Make French Onion Beef Stroganoff
- Prepare the Beef:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef stew meat in batches, searing it on all sides until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil and sauté the thinly sliced sweet onions over medium heat until they become soft and golden brown, about 10 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
- Build the Sauce:
- Return the beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Pour in the beef broth and condensed French onion soup. Stir to combine.
- Season with freshly ground black pepper and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
- Cook the Egg Noodles:
- While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Finish the Sauce:
- Once the beef is tender, stir in the sour cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes, but do not let it boil, as this could cause the sour cream to curdle.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the beef and sauce mixture, tossing gently to coat the noodles evenly.
- Transfer the stroganoff to a serving dish and top with French-fried onions for a crispy, flavorful finish.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Prep Time:
- 15 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time:
- 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories:
- Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Servings:
- Serves 6
Why This Recipe is Timeless
French Onion Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food that never goes out of style. The combination of tender beef, caramelized onions, and a creamy, cheesy sauce over a bed of egg noodles is a classic that appeals to all ages. It’s a dish that feels both indulgent and familiar, making it perfect for everything from casual weeknight dinners to festive family gatherings.
The recipe’s versatility also adds to its timelessness. You can customize it by adding mushrooms, swapping sour cream for Greek yogurt, or using whole-grain noodles for a healthier twist. It’s a dish that evolves with your preferences while retaining its core comforting qualities.
This recipe also stands out because of its simplicity. It’s easy to prepare with minimal ingredients and effort, yet it delivers maximum flavor and satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, French Onion Beef Stroganoff is a recipe you’ll turn to time and time again.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
FAQs
- Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare the beef and sauce mixture a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked egg noodles before serving.
- Can I use a different type of meat? Certainly! Ground beef, thinly sliced sirloin, or even chicken can be used as substitutes for beef stew meat.
- What are some good side dishes for this recipe? A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread make excellent accompaniments to this dish.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Tips for Making the Best French Onion Beef Stroganoff
- Sear the Beef Properly: Ensure the beef is browned well for a richer, deeper flavor.
- Use Sweet Onions: Their natural sweetness enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercook the egg noodles if you plan to mix them with the hot sauce, as they will continue to cook and absorb the flavors.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Freezing: Freeze the beef and sauce mixture separately from the noodles to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy. Combine them after reheating.
Conclusion
French Onion Beef Stroganoff is a dish that combines the best of both worlds – the comforting, creamy richness of traditional stroganoff and the deep, savory sweetness of French onion soup. It’s a recipe that brings warmth and joy to the table, making it perfect for any occasion. The layers of flavor, from the tender beef to the caramelized onions and crispy topping, create a dining experience that’s as satisfying as it is memorable.
This recipe reminds us of the power of food to bring people together and create cherished memories. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, comfort, and togetherness. Whether you’re enjoying it with family on a quiet evening or sharing it with friends at a festive gathering, French Onion Beef Stroganoff is sure to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, gather around the table, and savor the timeless deliciousness of this comforting classic.