Beef Stroganoff Recipe – Cream Sauce And Soft Beef Strips

Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort dish featuring tender strips of beef simmered in a rich and creamy mushroom sauce.

Originating from Russia, this recipe has become a favorite across the globe for its silky texture and savory flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an elegant meal with guests.

Serve it over buttery egg noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, or fluffy rice to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce.

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Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a timeless comfort food classic with roots in Russian cuisine, known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender beef strips.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 people

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Russian

Calories: 520

Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced into strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)
• 1 tbsp 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thicker sauce)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Tongs or cooking tweezers (optional but helpful)

Method

 

1. Sear the Beef: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the beef strips (to avoid overcrowding) and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until browned but not overcooked. Remove and repeat with the remaining beef. Set aside.
   
2. Sauté Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add chopped onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft. Add garlic and mushrooms; cook until mushrooms are browned and their moisture has evaporated, about 5-6 minutes.
   
3. Deglaze and Build Sauce: Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes.
   
4. Return Beef to the Pan: Add the seared beef back into the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve immediately over your choice of egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
   

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

• Beef Cut Matters: Use sirloin or tenderloin for the best texture. Tougher cuts may require longer cooking or marinating.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Quick searing keeps the beef tender. Overcooking will make it chewy.
• Flavor Boost: A splash of white wine during deglazing adds depth.
• Mushroom Magic: Let the mushrooms brown without stirring too often — this develops more umami flavor.
• Dairy Caution: When adding sour cream, reduce heat to avoid curdling.

How to Serve It?

Beef Stroganoff is best enjoyed hot and freshly made to fully savor its creamy sauce and tender beef strips.

Presentation can make all the difference, whether you’re going casual or aiming to impress.

When it’s time to serve, keep these options in mind:

• Spoon the Stroganoff generously over your chosen base (like noodles or mashed potatoes).
• Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for color and a touch of brightness.
• For a refined look, use wide, shallow bowls that showcase the sauce and beef beautifully.
• If you’re going for a warm, homey feel, serve it family-style in a large dish at the center of the table.

What to Serve It With?

Choosing the right side or base can elevate the dish and balance out its richness.

Here are some classic and creative ideas to consider:

• Traditional base: Buttered egg noodles are the most classic pairing—they hold the sauce perfectly and complement the dish’s texture.
• Hearty option: Creamy mashed potatoes make for an indulgent and satisfying foundation.
• Lighter alternative: Steamed white rice works well for those who prefer a more neutral pairing.
• Low-carb choices: Serve over cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a healthier twist.
• Sides to complement:
  • Crusty bread is ideal for soaking up every bit of the sauce.
  • Steamed green beans or a fresh cucumber salad offer a crisp, refreshing contrast.

Are There some Alternatives for Ingredients?

 

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Beef Stroganoff may be a traditional dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be customized to suit your dietary needs, budget, or what you happen to have in your fridge.

Alternative Proteins for Every Preference

Here are some tasty and satisfying options:

Chicken Breast or Thighs

Thinly slice boneless chicken and sear it just like the beef.

Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor, while breasts are leaner and quicker to cook.

Vegetarian Options

Portobello mushrooms are the star here; they have a meaty texture and soak up the sauce well.

You can also use a blend of hearty vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and even eggplant for a satisfying plant-based version.

Using a high-quality chef’s knife like those from Couteaux Morta makes prep easier and more enjoyable, whether you’re dicing vegetables or slicing protein substitutes.

Plant-Based Proteins

Tofu and tempeh are great meatless options.

Press tofu before searing for a firmer texture, or slice tempeh thin and pan-fry until golden.

These ingredients pair well with the creamy sauce and add plenty of protein.

Ground Meats

In a pinch, ground beef, turkey, or plant-based crumbles can be used.

These work especially well if you’re going for a quicker, weeknight-style Stroganoff.

Dairy-Free and Sauce Base Substitutes

If you’re out of sour cream or following a dairy-free diet, the creamy sauce can still come together with a few simple swaps:

Dairy Substitutes

• Full-fat Greek Yogurt: Offers a similar tang and creaminess to sour cream. Add it once the pan is off the heat to prevent curdling.
• Coconut Cream: A great dairy-free option that brings richness and a subtle sweetness. Use unsweetened varieties to keep the flavor balanced.
• Vegan Sour Cream or Cashew Cream: Both mimic the texture and taste of traditional sour cream while staying plant-based.

Thickening Agents

• Cornstarch Slurry: Mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons water and stir it into the sauce to thicken.
• Gluten-Free Flour Blend: A 1:1 substitute for regular flour if you’re avoiding gluten.

Broth and Liquid Alternatives

Beef broth provides a deep, savory base, but it’s not the only choice.

If you’re working with pantry staples or catering to dietary restrictions, try these instead:

• Chicken Broth: A lighter flavor that still complements the other ingredients well.
• Vegetable Broth: Perfect for vegetarian or vegan versions, though it may lack some of the depth, compensate with a splash of soy sauce or tamari.
• Mushroom Broth: Adds an earthy richness that enhances the flavor, especially in meatless variations.

Summary

Beef Stroganoff is a timeless dish that brings comfort, richness, and elegance all in one satisfying plate.

With versatile serving options and plenty of room for ingredient swaps, this recipe adapts beautifully to different tastes, dietary needs, and occasions.

Kelly Barlow

Hi there, my name is Kelly Barlow and kellytoeat.com is my blog. Here, I write about various recipes I want to reccommend to readers.

I try to find the best possible recipes that can attract the attention of readers, and at the same time, I strive to write it in the most engaging manner possible.

When I was younger, I wanted to become a chef. Sadly, it wasn’t meant to be, but at the very least, I write about it.