When it comes to comfort food that’s rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying, nothing beats a classic beef stroganoff recipe. This beloved dish, with tender strips of beef, savory mushrooms, and a luscious sour cream sauce, is the perfect weeknight dinner that tastes like a weekend indulgence. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make at home with just a handful of everyday ingredients.
In this blog post, I’ll show you how to prepare the best homemade beef stroganoff using simple steps, pantry staples, and minimal prep time. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your comfort food rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in about 30–40 minutes
- Made in one pan: Less mess, fewer dishes
- Family-friendly: Mild flavors that even picky eaters love
- Customizable: Works with beef strips or ground beef
- Meal-prep friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully
If you’ve ever wanted a hearty meal that delivers gourmet flavor without the fuss, this classic beef stroganoff is your answer.
A Little History of Beef Stroganoff
This dish traces its origins to mid-19th century Russia and is named after the prominent Stroganov family. Originally made with beef cubes cooked in a mustard and sour cream sauce, it has since evolved into various interpretations across the globe. Today’s version—often including mushrooms, onions, and egg noodles—is a beloved staple in households worldwide.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of beef stroganoff lies in its simple ingredients coming together to create complex flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Beef
Best cuts: Sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye (sliced into thin strips)
Budget-friendly option: Ground beef or flank steak
Mushrooms
White button or cremini mushrooms add earthy flavor and texture.
Onions and Garlic
These form the aromatic base of your sauce.
Butter and Olive Oil
Used for sautéing and adding richness.
Beef Broth
Provides savory depth to the sauce.
Dijon Mustard and Worcestershire Sauce
Adds a mild tang and umami flavor.
Sour Cream
The key to the dish’s signature creamy consistency.
Egg Noodles
Traditional and best for soaking up that delicious sauce.
How to Make Beef Stroganoff Step by Step
Here’s how to make this dish from scratch with ease:
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear the strips in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Cook just until browned, about 2 minutes per side, then set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the mushrooms release their juices and become golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Deglaze the pan with a splash of beef broth, scraping up the brown bits. Add the remaining broth, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Sour Cream
Lower the heat and gently stir in the sour cream, being careful not to let it boil to prevent curdling. Add the beef back to the skillet and simmer for a few minutes until it’s warmed through and tender.
Step 5: Cook the Noodles and Serve
As the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles following the package directions. Drain well, then serve the stroganoff over the noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley or a pinch of paprika if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Stroganoff
- Do not overcook the beef – Sear quickly to keep it tender
- Use full-fat sour cream – It creates a richer, smoother sauce
- Add a bit of flour – If you like a thicker sauce, stir in 1 teaspoon of flour before adding broth
- Deglaze the pan thoroughly — this helps release the browned bits stuck to the bottom, adding rich flavor to the sauce.
Variations to Try
Looking to switch things up? These variations are just as tasty:
Ground Beef Stroganoff
A quick, budget-friendly option that’s just as creamy and flavorful. Brown the ground beef first, then follow the same steps for the sauce.
Beef Stroganoff Without Mushrooms
If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, simply leave them out. Add spinach, zucchini, or more onions instead.
Dairy-Free Option
Swap the sour cream for unsweetened coconut cream or a plant-based alternative for a lactose-free version.
Low-Carb Version
Serve the beef stroganoff over mashed cauliflower or zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This easy beef stroganoff is ideal for meal prep and leftovers:
- Seal leftovers tightly in a container and refrigerate to enjoy fresh flavors for up to three days.
- Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months (without noodles)
- Reheat gently over low heat, stirring in a small amount of broth to bring back the sauce’s creamy texture.
Common Questions About Beef Stroganoff
What is the best beef cut for stroganoff?
Sirloin or tenderloin are ideal for tenderness. Ground beef also works well for a quicker version.
Is it possible to substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?
Yes, full-fat Greek yogurt can be a substitute. Just make sure to stir it in off heat to avoid curdling.
Is beef stroganoff Russian or American?
It originated in Russia but has been widely adapted in Western cuisine, especially in American households.
Final Thoughts
This beef stroganoff recipe is the kind of classic that never goes out of style. It’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor—all prepared in a single pan. Whether you’re cooking for your family, guests, or just yourself, it’s the perfect dish to warm up a cold night or bring a little nostalgia to the dinner table.
So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make a dish that’s stood the test of time. Comfort food doesn’t get any easier or more delicious than this.
If you’re looking for more quick and delicious meals, be sure to check out our Easy Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. It’s packed with bold, savory-sweet flavor and comes together in just minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying dinner fast.