Beef Stroganoff Easy: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Beef Stroganoff Easy: Craving a creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious meal that’s ready in under an hour? Look no further! I’m about to share my foolproof recipe for Beef Stroganoff, and trust me, it’s so easy, even a beginner cook can master it. Forget complicated techniques and hours spent slaving over the stove. This version delivers all the classic flavors you love, without the fuss.

Beef Stroganoff boasts a rich history, originating in 19th-century Russia. Legend has it that it was created for the Stroganov family, wealthy aristocrats known for their refined tastes. While the original recipe may have been more elaborate, its essence – tender beef in a luscious sour cream sauce – has remained a beloved comfort food across the globe.

What makes Beef Stroganoff so irresistible? It’s the perfect marriage of textures and tastes. The tender strips of beef, the earthy mushrooms, and the tangy, creamy sauce create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying and complete meal. And the best part? This Beef Stroganoff Easy recipe is so quick and convenient, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Get ready to experience a taste of culinary history without spending hours in the kitchen!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs beef sirloin, cut into thin strips
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry sherry (or dry white wine)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Cooked egg noodles or rice, for serving

Preparing the Beef:

1. First things first, let’s get that beef ready! Take your 1.5 lbs of beef sirloin and slice it into thin strips. The thinner the strips, the more tender it will be, and the faster it will cook. I like to partially freeze the beef for about 30 minutes before slicing; it makes it much easier to get those nice, even strips.
2. Now, season the beef strips generously with salt and pepper. Don’t be shy! This is your chance to build flavor right from the start. I usually use about 1/2 tsp of salt and 1/4 tsp of black pepper, but feel free to adjust to your taste.

Sautéing the Aromatics and Beef:

1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure the skillet is nice and hot before adding the beef.
2. Add the beef strips to the skillet in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the beef will steam instead of sear. If necessary, work in batches. Sear the beef for about 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. You’re not trying to cook it all the way through at this point, just get a nice sear on the outside.
3. Remove the seared beef from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll add it back in later.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent, and the mushrooms have released their moisture and browned slightly. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Creating the Stroganoff Sauce:

1. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the onion and mushroom mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 1 minute. This will help to thicken the sauce.
2. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of beef broth, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These browned bits are called fond, and they add tons of flavor to the sauce.
3. Add 1/2 cup of dry sherry (or dry white wine) to the skillet. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a delicious flavor. If you don’t have sherry or wine, you can substitute with more beef broth.
4. Stir in 1 tbsp of Dijon mustard, 1 tsp of Worcestershire sauce, and 1/2 tsp of smoked paprika. The Dijon mustard adds a tangy flavor, the Worcestershire sauce adds umami, and the smoked paprika adds a smoky depth.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Bringing it All Together:

1. Return the seared beef to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and tender. Be careful not to overcook the beef, or it will become tough.
3. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in 1 cup of sour cream. Be sure to stir gently, as high heat can cause the sour cream to curdle.
4. Taste the stroganoff and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to taste.

Serving:

1. Serve the beef stroganoff hot over cooked egg noodles or rice. I personally love it with egg noodles, but rice is a great gluten-free option.
2. Garnish with 2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
3. Enjoy! This beef stroganoff is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Tips and Variations:

• Beef Options: While sirloin is a great choice for this recipe, you can also use other cuts of beef, such as tenderloin or ribeye. Just be sure to slice the beef thinly, no matter what cut you use.
• Mushroom Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms. Shiitake, oyster, or even button mushrooms would all work well in this recipe.
• Wine Substitution: If you don’t have dry sherry or dry white wine, you can substitute with more beef broth or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity.
• Cream Cheese Option: For an even richer and creamier stroganoff, you can substitute half of the sour cream with cream cheese. Just be sure to soften the cream cheese before adding it to the skillet.
• Slow Cooker Method: This recipe can also be adapted for the slow cooker. Simply sear the beef and sauté the onions and mushrooms as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except for the sour cream) and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the sour cream just before serving.
• Make Ahead: Beef stroganoff can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors actually meld together even more as it sits, making it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining. Store the stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezing: While you can freeze beef stroganoff, the sour cream may change texture upon thawing. If you plan to freeze it, consider omitting the sour cream until after thawing and reheating. Add fresh sour cream just before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• Egg Noodles: As mentioned earlier, egg noodles are a classic pairing for beef stroganoff. Their rich, buttery flavor complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Rice: Rice is a great gluten-free option that also soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a truly comforting meal, serve beef stroganoff over mashed potatoes.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stroganoff.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: 450-550 per serving
• Protein: 35-45g
• Fat: 25-35g
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g

Enjoying Your Homemade Beef Stroganoff:

I hope you enjoy making and eating this easy beef stroganoff recipe! It’s a classic comfort food that’s perfect for a cozy night in. Don’t be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This isn’t just another recipe; it’s your new weeknight hero! This Beef Stroganoff Easy recipe delivers all the creamy, savory goodness you crave, without spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, from prep to plate, you’re looking at a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, and the flavor is absolutely incredible. The tender beef, bathed in that rich, tangy sauce, is a symphony of comfort food that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s the perfect balance of convenience and deliciousness. We all have those days when we’re short on time but still want a satisfying, home-cooked meal. This recipe answers that call beautifully. It’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a tangier, slightly lighter version. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, add a splash of dry sherry or white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of depth.

Speaking of serving suggestions, the classic pairing is, of course, egg noodles. Their soft texture and mild flavor provide the perfect canvas for the creamy stroganoff. But don’t feel limited! This dish is equally amazing served over rice, mashed potatoes, or even creamy polenta. For a lighter option, try serving it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. And for a complete meal, add a side of steamed green beans or a simple salad.

Want to take it up a notch? Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms to the beef while it’s browning. Cremini or button mushrooms work perfectly. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill at the end adds a pop of color and freshness. And if you like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick.

I’ve made this Beef Stroganoff Easy recipe countless times, and it’s always a hit. It’s become a staple in my own kitchen, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. You can easily adjust it to suit your own tastes and preferences.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and get ready to experience the joy of a truly delicious and easy-to-make meal. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below! Let’s create a community of stroganoff lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Don’t forget to rate the recipe once you’ve tried it! Your feedback helps others discover this amazing dish. Enjoy!