Beef Stroganoff is a timeless dish that combines tender strips of beef with a rich, creamy sauce flavored with mushrooms, onions, and garlic. This recipe will guide you through making a hearty and satisfying Beef Stroganoff that’s perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds thinly sliced petite shoulder steak, or similar cut: Choosing a tender cut of beef ensures that the meat remains juicy and flavorful.
- 12 ounces egg noodles: The traditional pasta for Beef Stroganoff, these broad noodles soak up the delicious sauce perfectly.
- 12 ounces cremini mushrooms: These add a deep, earthy flavor to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For sautéing and adding richness to the sauce.
- 3 minced garlic cloves: Essential for adding a robust flavor to the dish.
- 1 chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth: Forms the base of the sauce.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: For thickening the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and complexity.
- ⅔ cup sour cream: Gives the sauce its creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Chopped fresh parsley, to serve: Adds a fresh, herbal note to the finished dish.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the Beef: If not already done, thinly slice the beef against the grain into bite-sized strips. This ensures the meat remains tender when cooked.
- Chop the Vegetables: Mince the garlic, chop the onion, and slice the cremini mushrooms.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Noodles
- Boil the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Beef and Vegetables
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and cook until the mushrooms are tender and the liquid has evaporated, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Create a Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to combine. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add the Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Incorporate the Flavorings: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
- Add the Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Combine with Noodles: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss to coat them in the sauce. If the skillet is too small, you can mix everything in a large mixing bowl.
Step 6: Serve
- Plate the Stroganoff: Divide the Beef Stroganoff among serving plates.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
Tip 1: Choose the Right Beef
- Using a tender cut like petite shoulder steak, sirloin, or ribeye ensures that the meat remains juicy and flavorful. If using a tougher cut, consider marinating the beef beforehand or cooking it longer to tenderize.
Tip 2: Don’t Overcook the Beef
- Sear the beef quickly over high heat to brown it without overcooking. Overcooked beef can become tough and chewy.
Tip 3: Use Low-Sodium Beef Broth
- Using low-sodium beef broth gives you better control over the seasoning. You can always add more salt if needed.
Tip 4: Adjust the Thickness of the Sauce
- If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
Tip 5: Sour Cream at the End
- Stirring in the sour cream off the heat prevents it from curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy sauce.
Variations
Variation 1: Mushroom Stroganoff
- For a vegetarian version, omit the beef and double the amount of mushrooms. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
Variation 2: Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Use ground beef instead of sliced steak for a quicker, more budget-friendly version. Brown the ground beef first, then follow the recipe as written.
Variation 3: Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
- Combine all the ingredients (except the sour cream) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the sour cream just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serving Suggestion 1: With Rice or Potatoes
- Beef Stroganoff pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes instead of egg noodles. These alternatives soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Serving Suggestion 2: Side Salad
- A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the Stroganoff and adds a refreshing contrast.
Serving Suggestion 3: Crusty Bread
- Serve with crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
Detailed Exploration of Ingredients
Beef
Choosing a high-quality cut of beef makes a significant difference in the final dish. Cuts like petite shoulder steak, sirloin, or ribeye are ideal due to their tenderness. For best results, slice the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender.
Mushrooms
Cremini mushrooms add a deeper, earthier flavor than white button mushrooms. They hold up well during cooking and contribute a meaty texture that complements the beef.
Sour Cream
Sour cream adds a tangy richness to the sauce. Full-fat sour cream provides the best texture and flavor, but you can use low-fat sour cream if you prefer a lighter dish. Ensure it’s added off the heat to prevent curdling.
Worcestershire Sauce
This ingredient adds a complex, savory depth to the sauce. It’s a key component that enhances the overall umami flavor.
Additional Tips
Serving Temperature
Beef Stroganoff is best served hot. If it cools down too much, the sauce can thicken and lose its creamy consistency. Reheat gently on the stovetop if needed, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of broth or water to help maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Garnishing
Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness of the dish. You can also use fresh thyme or dill as an alternative garnish.
Nutritional Information
Beef Stroganoff is a rich dish, so be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake. Using leaner cuts of beef and low-fat sour cream can help reduce the overall fat content.
Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that’s both hearty and indulgent. With tender beef, flavorful mushrooms, and a creamy, savory sauce, it’s sure to please any crowd. This recipe provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special gathering, Beef Stroganoff is a timeless recipe that never fails to impress. Enjoy this delicious dish with your favorite side, and savor the comforting flavors in every bite!
