Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

There's nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of Beef Stroganoff on a chilly evening. Tender beef, silky noodles, and a creamy mushroom sauce come together in a dish that feels fancy but is simple enough for any home cook.

this Recipe

I first tried Beef Stroganoff at a family gathering, where it was served with crusty bread and a fresh salad. The combination of hearty flavors and creamy textures had me hooked, and I knew I had to recreate it at home. Now, it's a go-to meal in my weekly rotation. Let's dive into what makes this recipe so special.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Beef Stroganoff

Get ready to fall head over heels for this timeless dish. Beef Stroganoff isn’t just delicious; it’s a dinner-time hero for busy households.

• Quick and easy: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknights when time is tight.
• Budget-friendly: Using simple pantry staples like sour cream, broth, and pasta, you can whip up a meal that tastes luxurious without breaking the bank.
• Family-approved: Kids and adults alike adore the creamy sauce and tender beef, making it a surefire winner.
• Customizable: Whether you’re a mushroom lover or prefer a little extra garlic, this dish can be tailored to your tastes.

So, let’s gather our ingredients and start cooking up some comfort.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Easy Beef Stroganoff lies in its humble ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in crafting that signature flavor and texture.

• Beef: For the best results, use sirloin steak or beef tenderloin. These cuts are naturally tender and cook quickly, making them perfect for this recipe. Slice thinly against the grain to ensure they stay juicy.
• Mushrooms: Fresh cremini mushrooms add an earthy depth to the sauce. If cremini aren’t available, white button mushrooms work just as well.
• Sour Cream: This is the star ingredient that gives Stroganoff its signature creamy tang. Full-fat sour cream works best, but you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Beef Broth: A rich beef broth forms the base of the sauce, adding savory depth to the dish. Low-sodium broth is a good choice if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Noodles: Egg noodles are the traditional pairing for Stroganoff. Their wide, tender strands soak up the creamy sauce beautifully, creating the perfect bite.

You’ll also need pantry staples like onion, garlic, butter, and flour to complete the recipe. A large skillet and a pot for boiling noodles are the only tools required, making cleanup a breeze.

How to Make This Easy Beef Stroganoff

Creating this creamy, dreamy dish is surprisingly simple. Let me walk you through it step by step.

1. Prepare the beef: Begin by slicing your sirloin steak into thin strips, ensuring you cut against the grain. Season generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a splash of oil, then sear the beef in batches. This ensures each piece gets a golden crust without overcrowding the pan. Once done, remove the beef and set it aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, melt butter and toss in diced onions. Cook until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute, letting its aroma fill your kitchen.
3. Cook the mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms to the pan and sauté until they’re browned and tender, about 5 minutes. The mushrooms will release their moisture before caramelizing beautifully.
4. Build the sauce: Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir well to coat. Slowly pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release all those flavorful browned bits. Simmer the mixture until it thickens slightly, about 3 minutes.
5. Finish with sour cream: Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream, creating a velvety sauce. Be careful not to let it boil, as the sour cream might curdle. Return the seared beef to the pan and stir to coat.
6. Cook the noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook your egg noodles in a pot of salted boiling water. Drain them and toss with a little butter for extra flavor.

Serve the beef and sauce over the noodles, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! Beef Stroganoff stores well, making it a great make-ahead meal.

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep the noodles and sauce separate to avoid sogginess.
• Freezer: The sauce freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. However, the sour cream may slightly alter the texture upon reheating, so stir in a fresh spoonful after thawing.
• Reheating: Warm the sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth if it thickens too much. Heat noodles separately and combine just before serving.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Beef Stroganoff is its versatility. Here are some creative ways to adapt the recipe:

• Lighten it up: Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt and use whole wheat noodles for a healthier twist.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the beef with hearty portobello mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth in place of beef broth.
• Gluten-free version: Opt for gluten-free pasta and use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
• Add wine: Deglaze the pan with a splash of dry white wine before adding the broth for extra flavor.
• Amp up the spices: A pinch of paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add complexity to the sauce.

Don’t be afraid to get creative! This dish is wonderfully forgiving and always delicious.

Easy Beef Stroganoff is a meal that turns any night into something special. With its rich flavors, creamy sauce, and tender beef, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So grab your skillet and let’s make magic happen—dinner is just 30 minutes away!

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