Simple Beef Stroganoff Recipe

The Best Beef Stroganoff Recipe Everyone Will Love

Whipping up a simple beef stroganoff recipe can turn an ordinary weeknight into a culinary adventure.

Creamy pasta and tender meat create a classic comfort dish that feels like a warm hug.

Generations of home cooks have perfected this hearty meal with just a few smart ingredients.

Our streamlined approach eliminates complicated steps while preserving rich, authentic flavors.

Silky sour cream and golden mushrooms mingle with perfectly seasoned beef strips for a truly memorable dinner.

Quick techniques and smart shortcuts mean you can have this delicious plate on the table in less than 30 minutes.

Savor every bite and watch as your dinner becomes an instant favorite.

Simple Beef Stroganoff Full of Classic Flavor

  • Savor Quick Comfort: This beef stroganoff delivers hearty, restaurant-quality meal without complicated techniques, perfect for home cooks wanting delicious dinner without stress.
  • Maximize Flavor Efficiency: The recipe smartly uses single skillet, reducing cleanup while building deep, rich flavors through strategic ingredient layering and cooking methods.
  • Transform Weeknight Dining: Classic dish elevates ordinary meals with gourmet touches like Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, turning simple ingredients into something special.
  • Customize with Ease: Flexible recipe allows simple ingredient swaps or additions like extra mushrooms, different protein, or optional wine to match personal taste preferences.

Ingredients for Classic Beef Stroganoff

Main Protein:
  • Beef Strips: A tender and flavorful protein that becomes the star of this classic comfort dish.
Aromatics and Vegetables:
  • Onion, Garlic: These ingredients provide a deep, savory base that enhances the overall flavor of the stroganoff.
  • Mushrooms: A hearty vegetable that adds earthiness and texture to the sauce.
Sauce and Seasoning Components:
  • Sour Cream: Adds a rich, tangy creaminess that gives stroganoff its signature smooth texture.
  • Beef Broth: Creates a flavorful liquid base for the sauce.
  • Flour: Helps thicken the sauce and create a smooth consistency.
  • Butter: Provides richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
  • Dijon Mustard: Brings a subtle sharp and tangy note to the sauce.
  • Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
  • White Wine (Optional): Enhances the sauce with a subtle acidic brightness.
  • Salt, Pepper, Paprika: Essential seasonings that balance and elevate the dish's flavor.
Serving Base:
  • Egg Noodles: A classic pasta that serves as the perfect vehicle for the rich beef stroganoff sauce.
Garnish:
  • Parsley: Adds a fresh, bright finish to the dish.

How to Make Simple Beef Stroganoff Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil Tender Noodles

Cook egg noodles following package directions.

Drain and set them aside, ready for the delicious sauce.

Step 2: Sear Succulent Beef

  • Beef strips
  • Salt
  • Pepper

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Toss beef strips into the hot pan, sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Cook until beautifully browned.

Transfer beef to a separate plate.

Step 3: Sauté Aromatic Base

  • Butter
  • Onion
  • Garlic

Melt butter in the same skillet.

Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic.

Sauté until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Develop Rich Mushroom Flavor

  • Mushrooms

Introduce sliced mushrooms to the skillet.

Cook until they turn tender and develop a gorgeous golden-brown color.

Step 5: Create Silky Sauce Foundation

  • Flour

Sprinkle flour into the skillet.

Stir and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux.

Step 6: Build Luxurious Liquid Base

  • Beef broth
  • White wine (optional)

Slowly whisk beef broth into the skillet.

If desired, splash in white wine.

Simmer until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety.

Step 7: Enhance With Creamy Goodness

  • Sour cream
  • Dijon mustard
  • Worcestershire sauce

Reduce heat and stir in sour cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.

Mix until wonderfully combined.

Step 8: Reunite Beef With Sauce

Return browned beef to the skillet.

Stir gently to warm through and coat with the luscious sauce.

Season with additional salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of paprika if you like.

Step 9: Serve And Enjoy

Ladle the beef stroganoff over the prepared egg noodles.

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Pro Tips for Tender and Flavorful Beef Stroganoff

  • Select tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for the most melt-in-your-mouth stroganoff experience.
  • Pat beef strips dry before cooking to ensure perfect browning and develop rich, caramelized flavors.
  • Whisk broth slowly and steadily to prevent lumps, creating a smooth, creamy sauce that coats every ingredient.
  • Adjust Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce to taste, finding the perfect balance between richness and brightness.
  • Remove skillet from heat before adding sour cream to prevent curdling and maintain a silky, luxurious sauce texture.

Variations to Try on Beef Stroganoff

  • Vegetarian Stroganoff: Replace beef with plant-based protein like seitan, tempeh, or portobello mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a hearty meatless version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap egg noodles with zucchini noodles or gluten-free pasta. Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening the sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
  • Lighter Cream Sauce: Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. Use almond milk or light cream to reduce calories while maintaining creamy texture.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut cream instead of sour cream. Replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free margarine. Select cashew cream as a rich, creamy sauce base for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Serving Suggestions for Beef Stroganoff

  • Rustic Family Platter: Arrange the beef stroganoff in a large, rustic serving dish with noodles peeking out from underneath, creating an inviting family-style presentation that encourages sharing.
  • Elegant Dinner Party Style: Plate individually on white plates with a carefully twirled nest of egg noodles, topped with beef strips and sauce, then sprinkle fresh parsley for a sophisticated touch.
  • Hearty Comfort Bowl: Serve in deep, warmed ceramic bowls that showcase the creamy sauce, allowing guests to fully appreciate the rich, comforting layers of beef, mushrooms, and noodles.
  • Fresh Herb Finale: Generously garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives to add a bright, fresh contrast to the rich, creamy stroganoff and provide a pop of green color.

How to Store Beef Stroganoff for Freshness

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Separate noodles from the beef mixture to prevent them from becoming soggy.
  • Transfer cooled stroganoff to a freezer-safe container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing if using sour cream, as it may separate upon thawing.
  • Place stroganoff in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.

FAQs

  • Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef with chicken, turkey, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

  • What if I don't have Worcestershire sauce?

You can replace it with soy sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and vinegar. The goal is to add depth and umami flavor to the dish.

  • Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, the recipe contains flour for thickening the sauce. To make it gluten-free, use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.

  • Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef stroganoff in advance and reheat it gently on the stovetop. Add a splash of broth to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick.

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Simple Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Simple Beef Stroganoff Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 12 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty beef stroganoff delights with tender strips of beef nestled in a creamy sauce over egg noodles. Comfort from Russian kitchens meets American dinner tables, inviting you to savor each comforting, rich bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) beef sirloin or tenderloin, sliced into thin strips

Vegetables and Aromatics:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cooking and Sauce Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) beef broth
  • 1 cup (240 grams) sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons (16 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) white wine
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish and Side:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) wide egg noodles
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Prepare egg noodles according to package directions, then drain and reserve for later plating.
  2. Sear beef strips in a hot skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat, seasoning with salt and pepper until nicely browned. Transfer cooked beef to a separate plate.
  3. Reduce skillet heat and melt butter, then sauté onions and garlic until they become translucent and fragrant.
  4. Add mushrooms to the skillet, cooking until they release moisture and develop a rich golden-brown color.
  5. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a smooth roux and eliminate raw flour taste.
  6. Slowly pour beef broth into the skillet, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Optional: incorporate white wine for additional depth of flavor.
  7. Simmer sauce until it thickens and reaches a creamy consistency, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  8. Reduce heat to low and blend in sour cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, creating a velvety sauce.
  9. Reintroduce beef strips to the skillet, gently warming through and allowing flavors to meld together.
  10. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional paprika for extra warmth.
  11. Plate stroganoff over prepared egg noodles and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

  • Choose tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for the most succulent beef strips that melt in your mouth.
  • Pat beef dry before cooking to ensure perfect browning and develop rich caramelized flavors.
  • Slice mushrooms uniformly to guarantee even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
  • Keep sour cream at room temperature and add gradually to prevent curdling and maintain a smooth, creamy sauce.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Russian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 479 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 440 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.4 g
  • Carbohydrates: 29 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 95 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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