Beef Stroganoff is a comforting dish with tender beef slices in a creamy mushroom sauce. It’s usually served over noodles or rice and is perfect for a warm, hearty meal.
I like to make this dish on busy nights because it’s simple and quick to prepare. Plus, I always sneak a little extra sour cream for a tangy taste!
If you want to save time, use pre-sliced mushrooms and cook your beef a bit faster. It’s a cozy meal that feels special without much fuss.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I recommend using tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for the best flavor and texture. Keep it thin and sliced; I find it cooks quickly. Tip: For a budget-friendly option, stew meat works but needs longer cooking. Substitute with chicken or mushrooms for a different twist.
Onions & Garlic: These aromatics are key to flavor. Use yellow onions for sweetness, or red onions for a milder taste. I always start with sautéing until golden. For a milder taste, caramelize longer. Garlic can be swapped for garlic powder solid in a pinch.
Mushrooms: They add richness and texture. Use cremini or white mushrooms, sliced. I toss them in early to absorb flavors; for a meaty flavor, shiitakes are great. If you’re allergic or out, zucchini works well for a lighter touch.
Sour Cream: This creates that creamy, tangy sauce. Full-fat sour cream provides the best richness. I add it at the end so it doesn’t curdle. If you’re out, Greek yogurt is a good substitute but reduce the heat to prevent curdling.
Broth & Flour: Beef broth makes the sauce flavorful; use low-sodium to control salt. Flour thickens it; I prefer all-purpose flour. Mix it with a little cold water to make a slurry before adding to avoid lumps. Cornstarch is an alternative.
How do I thicken and smooth the sauce without lumps?
Start by making a slurry: mix equal parts flour or cornstarch with cold water until smooth. Add this mixture gradually to the simmering sauce while stirring constantly. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens evenly, about 2-3 minutes. Avoid adding dry flour directly.
- 1. Mix flour or cornstarch with water in a separate bowl until smooth.
- 2. Slowly pour the slurry into the simmering sauce while stirring continuously.
- 3. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
How to Make Beef Stroganoff?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Beef:
- 1 pound beef sirloin or tenderloin, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil or butter
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 cup sour cream
For Serving:
- Cooked egg noodles or rice
- Chopped parsley (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes, Cooking: 20 minutes, Total: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Beef
Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables
In the same skillet, add chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Make the Sauce
Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir well. Slowly add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
4. Combine and Finish
Return beef to skillet. Stir in sour cream and cook until heated through, about 3 minutes. Do not boil. Serve over noodles or rice. Garnish with parsley if desired.
