The Best Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Cooked egg noodles or rice, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Season the beef strips with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.
Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables in the skillet and stir well to combine. Cook for 1 minute. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Mix in the tomato paste and Dijon mustard.
Combine the Ingredients: Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir in the sour cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and heated through.
Serve: Serve the beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy!

FAQs About Beef Stroganoff

What can you serve with beef stroganoff?

Beef stroganoff is traditionally served over cooked egg noodles or rice. However, it can also be paired with mashed potatoes or a simple green vegetable like steamed broccoli or green beans to balance the richness of the dish.

How to add more flavor to beef stroganoff?

To enhance the flavor of beef stroganoff, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a few drops of sherry or brandy, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also add depth of flavor.

What is the difference between stroganoff and Bourguignon?

Beef stroganoff and beef Bourguignon are both classic beef dishes, but they differ significantly in preparation and flavor. Stroganoff is a creamy, savory dish made with sour cream, while Bourguignon is a rich stew marinated in red wine and slow-cooked with vegetables and herbs.

What’s the difference between stroganoff and goulash?

Stroganoff and goulash are both hearty beef dishes, but they have different flavor profiles and ingredients. Stroganoff is creamy, incorporating sour cream, while goulash often includes paprika, tomatoes, and bell peppers, giving it a more robust and spicy flavor.

What is stroganoff sauce made of?

Stroganoff sauce typically consists of beef broth, sour cream, and flour (used as a thickener), along with onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Tomato paste and Dijon mustard are often added for additional depth of flavor.

What is the best cut of meat to use for beef stroganoff?

The best cuts of meat for beef stroganoff are tender ones that cook quickly, such as beef sirloin, tenderloin, or rib-eye. These cuts remain tender and flavorful when thinly sliced and briefly sautéed.

How do you add sour cream to stroganoff without curdling?

To prevent sour cream from curdling, make sure to remove the skillet from heat and allow the dish to cool slightly before stirring in the sour cream. Additionally, temper the sour cream by mixing it with a bit of the hot sauce before adding it to the dish.

Does beef stroganoff contain paprika?

Traditional beef stroganoff recipes do not typically include paprika. However, some variations may use paprika to add an extra layer of flavor.

What is the sauce in beef stroganoff made of?

The sauce in beef stroganoff is usually made from a combination of beef broth, sour cream, and flour for thickening. Other ingredients like onions, garlic, mushrooms, tomato paste, and Dijon mustard contribute to the sauce’s rich and creamy texture.

What to add to hamburger helper stroganoff to make it taste better?

To enhance the flavor of hamburger helper stroganoff, consider adding fresh sautéed mushrooms, minced garlic, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce. You can also top it with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

What can I add to stroganoff for more flavor?

For additional flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a few drops of sherry or brandy, or fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a pleasant kick.

What’s the best cut of meat for beef stroganoff?

Tender cuts like beef sirloin, tenderloin, or rib-eye are ideal for beef stroganoff because they cook quickly and remain tender when thinly sliced.

What is Brazilian stroganoff made of?

Brazilian stroganoff typically includes chicken or beef, mushrooms, and a sauce made from tomato paste, brandy, heavy cream, and sometimes ketchup. It is usually served with white rice and shoestring potatoes.

How to Cook Beef that Falls Apart

To achieve tender, fall-apart beef, the secret lies in slow cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to cook beef to perfection:

Choose the Right Cut: Opt for tougher, well-marbled cuts like chuck roast, brisket, or short ribs, as they are ideal for slow cooking and will become tender over time.
Season the Beef: Generously season the beef with salt, pepper, and any desired spices or herb blends. Allow the beef to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to let the flavours penetrate.
Sear the Beef: Heat a small amount of oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until it develops a deep, golden-brown crust. This step locks in the juices and enhances the beef’s flavour.
Add Liquid: Reduce the heat to low and add your choice of liquid to the pot. Beef broth, red wine, beer, or a combination of these work well. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the beef. Add any desired aromatics such as onions, garlic, bay leaves, or fresh herbs.
Slow Cook: Cover the pot with a lid and allow the beef to cook slowly. You can either simmer it on the stovetop, place it in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C), or use a slow cooker. Cook the beef for several hours (usually 3-4 hours on the stovetop or in the oven, or 6-8 hours on low in a slow cooker), until the meat is fork-tender and falls apart easily.
Check Occasionally: Periodically check the beef to ensure that there’s enough liquid and the temperature is consistent. Add more broth or water if necessary.
Rest and Shred: Once fully cooked, remove the beef from the pot and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Then, use two forks to shred the beef into pieces.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve tender, flavorful beef that melts in your mouth and falls apart effortlessly.

Healthy Substitutions for Beef Stroganoff

Creating a healthier version of beef stroganoff is simple with a few thoughtful substitutions. Here are some ways to lighten up this classic dish without sacrificing flavor:

Use Leaner Cuts of Meat: Swap out the traditional beef sirloin or rib-eye for leaner cuts like beef tenderloin or even ground turkey. These options are lower in fat but still provide plenty of protein.
Replace Sour Cream with Greek Yogurt: Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt to reduce the fat content while adding a boost of protein. Greek yogurt also gives a similar creamy texture to the dish.
Incorporate More Vegetables: Bulk up the stroganoff with extra vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and spinach. Not only do they add more nutrients, but they also enhance the dish with additional textures and flavors.
Opt for Whole-Grain or Vegetable Noodles: Replace traditional egg noodles with whole-grain noodles or vegetable-based alternatives like zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Use Low-Sodium Broth: Choose low-sodium beef broth to control the amount of sodium in the dish. This helps make the stroganoff heart-healthy without compromising taste.
Thicken with Flour Alternatives: Instead of using white flour to thicken the sauce, try using whole wheat flour or a gluten-free option like arrowroot powder.
Cook with Healthier Fats: Use olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter for a healthier fat alternative that provides essential nutrients and a rich flavor.

By incorporating these healthy substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious beef stroganoff that’s kinder to your body.

Storing Leftovers

Properly storing leftovers is crucial to maintaining their freshness and flavor. Here are some tips on how to store beef stroganoff leftovers effectively:

Cool Quickly: Allow the stroganoff to cool to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria that can occur when hot food is placed directly in the refrigerator.
Use Airtight Containers: Store the leftovers in airtight containers to keep them fresh and prevent them from absorbing any unwanted odors from the refrigerator.
Label and Date: Be sure to label each container with the date it was stored. This practice helps you keep track of how long the leftovers have been in the refrigerator, ensuring you consume them within a safe time frame.
Refrigerate Promptly: Place the containers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Beef stroganoff can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze for Longer Storage: If you plan to store the stroganoff for longer than a few days, consider freezing it. Transfer the cooled stroganoff to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
Thaw Safely: When ready to eat, thaw frozen stroganoff in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. Reheat thoroughly before consuming, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

By following these steps, you can enjoy your beef stroganoff leftovers while ensuring they remain safe and delicious.

Serving Tips

Serving beef stroganoff can be as delightful and creative as the dish itself. Here are some tips to elevate your dining experience:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a burst of fresh flavor.
Complement with a Side: Pair your stroganoff with a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans, asparagus, or broccoli, to add a crunchy texture and nutritional balance to your meal.
Choose the Right Noodles: Egg noodles are the classic choice, but you can also serve beef stroganoff over rice, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa for a unique twist.
Top with a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: For an extra touch of creaminess, add a small dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top right before serving.
Serve in Warm Dishes: Ensure that your serving plates or bowls are warm to help keep the stroganoff hot for longer, enhancing the dining experience.
Accompany with Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a garlic roll can be a great addition, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Consider a Side Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the stroganoff and refresh your palate.