Beef stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, savory, and hearty, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re a busy parent juggling weeknight chaos, a comfort-food enthusiast, or just someone looking for an easy recipe to please the whole family, this guide will walk you through every step of creating a simple yet delicious beef stroganoff.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a family-friendly meal on the table in no time.
What is Beef Stroganoff?
Originating from Russia, beef stroganoff is a dish traditionally made with sautéed beef, onions, and a sour cream-based sauce. While there are many variations across the globe, the essence of this dish is its creamy sauce paired with tender beef. Over time, the recipe has evolved into an easy-to-make comfort food staple perfect for weeknight dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights—this dish comes together in just 30 minutes.
- Family-Friendly: A hearty dish that pleases both kids and adults.
- Customizable: Swap beef for chicken, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or make it vegetarian by replacing meat with mushrooms.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you’ll need simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or steak, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (230g) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 12 oz egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Simple Beef Stroganoff
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure your ingredients are prepped and ready. Slice your beef thinly against the grain, chop the onions, mince the garlic, and slice the mushrooms. Having everything ready makes cooking smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the thinly-sliced beef to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side, just until browned. (You may need to do this in batches to avoid crowding the pan.)
- Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. This step ensures the meat stays tender without overcooking.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add another tablespoon of oil or butter to the same skillet. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 4–5 minutes until the mushrooms release their juice and become golden brown.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat. This helps thicken the sauce.
- Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine the Beef and Sauce
- Return the seared beef to the skillet, along with its juices. Mix everything together and allow the beef to gently warm in the sauce for 2–3 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the meat.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Serve the beef stroganoff over a bed of cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Sirloin, tenderloin, or flank steak work well for this recipe. Cut the beef thinly against the grain for extra tenderness.
- Don’t Overcook the Meat: Avoid overcooking the beef to keep it juicy and tender.
- Customize the Sauce: Add paprika for a smoky kick, Dijon mustard for a tangy edge, or a splash of white wine for depth.
Variations to Try
For a dish this classic, it’s easy to modify and suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
- Vegetarian: Replace beef with hearty mushrooms or tofu. Vegetable broth can be used instead of beef broth.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and serve over gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Lighter Alternative: Swap sour cream for nonfat Greek yogurt and use olive oil instead of butter.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Families
This easy beef stroganoff checks every box for a weeknight dinner—quick to prepare, minimal cleanup, and full of comforting flavors. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend, this recipe suits every occasion and leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Time to Get Cooking!
With its creamy, savory sauce and tender beef, beef stroganoff is a timeless dish that’s guaranteed to make dinnertime special. It’s an easy recipe that brings comfort to your table, whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd.
Give this recipe a try! We’d love to know how it turns out—drop a comment or share a photo with us.
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