Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe: Creamy Comfort Food in a Flash

Crafting a delightful beef stroganoff recipe can turn an ordinary weeknight into a culinary adventure.

Creamy sauces often intimidate home cooks, but this version simplifies every step.

Tender strips of beef nestle perfectly alongside mushrooms and a luxurious sour cream base.

Comfort food meets elegant dining with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Classic Russian-inspired dishes rarely come together as smoothly as this hearty meal.

Comfort doesn’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a dash of confidence.

You’ll love how quickly this dinner transforms basic pantry staples into something spectacular.

Why Easy Beef Stroganoff Is a Weeknight Hero

• A hearty meal that comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Swap out beef for chicken or mushrooms, adjust seasonings, or add extra vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours while keeping the classic creamy flavor profile intact.
• Uses affordable ingredients like ground beef, mushrooms, and pantry staples, delivering maximum flavor without breaking the bank and feeding a hungry family with minimal effort.
• Minimizes cleanup with a single pan cooking method, allowing you to prepare a complete meal without creating a mountain of dishes to wash afterward.

Ingredients for Creamy and Savory Beef Stroganoff

• Beef: Tender protein that serves as the primary component of the dish.
• Egg Noodles: Classic pasta base for stroganoff that provides a soft, comforting texture.
• Mushrooms: Earthy vegetable that adds depth and richness to the sauce.

• Beef Broth, Sour Cream: Creamy liquid base that creates the signature stroganoff sauce.
• Dijon Mustard: Tangy condiment that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Flour: Thickening agent for creating a smooth sauce consistency.

• Onions, Garlic: Foundational flavor builders that provide depth and aroma.
• Olive Oil, Butter: Cooking fats that help develop rich flavors and prevent sticking.
• Parsley, Parmesan Cheese: Optional garnish for added freshness and savory notes.
• Salt, Pepper: Basic seasonings for enhancing the overall taste.

Step-by-Step Guide for Easy Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Boil Noodle Base

Cook egg noodles in salted water following package directions.

Drain and set noodles aside in a warm spot.

The noodles will be the perfect foundation for your delicious meal.

Step 2: Sizzle Beef Perfectly

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Sear beef pieces in batches, ensuring each side gets a beautiful golden-brown color.

Transfer browned beef to a separate plate.

Step 3: Sauté Flavor Builders

• Butter
• Chopped onions
• Minced garlic
• Sliced mushrooms

Melt butter in the same skillet.

Add onions and garlic, cooking until they become soft and aromatic.

Toss in mushrooms and continue cooking until they release their delicious moisture.

Step 4: Create Silky Sauce

Dust vegetables with flour and cook briefly.

Slowly pour beef broth while stirring continuously.

Allow sauce to simmer and thicken.

Blend in Dijon mustard and sour cream for a luxurious, creamy texture.

Step 5: Marry Meat and Sauce

Return seared beef to the skillet, gently mixing into the rich sauce.

Let everything simmer together for a few minutes.

If sauce seems too thick, splash in some pasta water to achieve perfect consistency.

Step 6: Plate and Garnish

Spoon stroganoff over warm noodles.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Serve immediately and enjoy your homemade comfort meal.

Tips to Make Beef Stroganoff Even Better

• Slice beef against the grain and avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
• Add beef broth gradually and stir constantly to prevent lumps and achieve smooth, creamy texture.
• Use a mix of mushroom varieties like cremini and shiitake for more complex, rich taste profile.
• Substitute egg noodles with whole wheat or zucchini noodles for a healthier alternative.
• Cool stroganoff completely before refrigerating and consume within 3-4 days for best quality and safety.

How to Store and Reheat Beef Stroganoff Without Drying

• Transfer cooled stroganoff to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, keeping beef tender and sauce creamy.
• Seal in freezer-safe containers without noodles, lasting up to 2 months; freeze sauce and meat separately to maintain best quality and prevent texture breakdown.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with damp paper towel, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute warmth evenly and prevent dry spots.
• Warm in skillet over medium-low heat, adding splash of beef broth or water to revive sauce consistency, stirring gently to prevent beef from becoming tough.

Sides That Pair Well with Beef Stroganoff

• Pair with Full-Bodied Red Wine: Select a robust Pinot Noir or Cabernet Sauvignon that complements the rich, creamy beef dish with its balanced tannins and fruity undertones.
• Match with Crisp Side Salad: Prepare a tangy green salad with arugula, fresh tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to cut through the stroganoff's creaminess and provide refreshing contrast.
• Serve with Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roast root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil and herbs to add earthy, caramelized notes that harmonize with the beef's savory profile.
• Complement with Craft Beer: Choose a malty amber ale or dark lager that echoes the dish's depth and helps cleanse the palate between rich, creamy bites.

Unique Variations of Easy Beef Stroganoff

• Vegetarian Stroganoff: Replace beef with sliced portobello mushrooms or plant-based protein like seitan, creating a hearty meat-free version that maintains the creamy sauce and rich flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap egg noodles for zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta, and use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce, ensuring those with gluten sensitivities can enjoy the dish.
• Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute noodles with cauliflower rice or spiralized vegetables, using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the classic stroganoff taste.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream instead of sour cream, and replace butter with olive oil, creating a version suitable for those avoiding dairy while maintaining the dish's creamy texture.

FAQs

• What type of beef works best for this recipe?

Sirloin or tenderloin are ideal cuts because they’re tender and cook quickly. Choose lean, high-quality beef cut into thin strips for the most tender stroganoff.

• Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, simply replace regular flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend when thickening the sauce. Use gluten-free egg noodles or serve over rice for a completely gluten-free meal.

• Is beef stroganoff traditionally from a specific country?

Beef stroganoff originated in Russia during the 19th century, named after the Stroganov family. It became popular worldwide and has many regional adaptations.

• How can I prevent the beef from becoming tough?

Cook the beef in small batches over high heat to quickly sear the outside. Avoid overcooking and remove beef from the pan as soon as it’s browned to keep it tender and juicy.

Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Comfort meets elegance in this classic beef stroganoff, where tender strips of beef dance with creamy mushroom sauce over perfectly cooked noodles. Hearty flavors and simple ingredients combine to create a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies deep hunger and culinary cravings you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (454 g) beef (sirloin, tenderloin, or flank steak), sliced thinly
• 8 oz (226 g) egg noodles
• 8 oz (226 g) mushrooms, sliced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Liquids and Fats:

• 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) butter
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil

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Instructions

1. Prepare a pot of salted water and cook egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat at 375°F. Quickly sear beef pieces in batches until golden brown on each side, approximately 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer browned meat to a separate plate.
3. Reduce skillet heat to medium. Melt butter and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and aromatic, roughly 2-3 minutes. Add sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they release their moisture and turn golden, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Dust vegetables with flour, stirring continuously for 60 seconds to eliminate raw flour taste. Gradually pour beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Simmer sauce for 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Incorporate Dijon mustard and sour cream into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Stir gently to prevent curdling.
6. Return seared beef to the skillet, coating each piece with sauce. Warm for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors and ensure beef is heated through.
7. Plate cooked egg noodles and generously ladle beef stroganoff over top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and optional Parmesan cheese shavings.

Notes

• Select well-marbled beef cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Pat beef dry before searing to ensure a perfect golden-brown crust and prevent steaming.
• Cook mushrooms on high heat to develop rich caramelization and prevent moisture release.
• Temper sour cream by adding a small amount of hot sauce gradually to prevent curdling.
• Enhance umami by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the beef during cooking.
• Allow sauce to simmer gently to develop deep, complex flavor profiles without breaking.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Russian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 27 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg