Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of beef stroganoff simmering on the stove. This creamy, savory dish combines tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sour cream sauce for a meal that's pure comfort in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights, it's a recipe you'll turn to again and again.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I wanted something hearty but quick to prepare. Little did I know, it would become a staple in my family’s dinner rotation. With its quick cook time and simple ingredients, this beef stroganoff is both a lifesaver and a crowd-pleaser.

Why You'll Love This Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Get ready to fall head over heels for this easy beef stroganoff. It's the perfect combination of rich flavors and effortless preparation.

First, it's incredibly fast to make. From start to finish, you'll have dinner on the table in just 30 minutes. That’s perfect for those nights when you're juggling homework help, after-school activities, and a grumbling stomach.

The ingredients are simple, budget-friendly, and easy to find. You probably already have staples like beef broth, onions, and sour cream in your kitchen. No need for fancy ingredients or complicated steps.

This dish is wonderfully versatile. You can make it with ground beef for a more casual vibe or upgrade to tender sirloin strips for a special occasion. It also works beautifully with noodles, rice, or even mashed potatoes as the base.

Finally, it’s a one-pan wonder! Fewer dishes mean more time to relax after dinner, which is always a win in my book.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this beef stroganoff lies in its simple, straightforward ingredients. Each one plays an essential role in creating its iconic flavor.

Beef: While traditional stroganoff often calls for sirloin or tenderloin, ground beef is a quicker and more affordable option. If you’re using sirloin, slice it thinly against the grain for the most tender results.

Mushrooms: Use white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms for their mild, earthy flavor. Slice them thinly so they cook quickly and evenly.

Beef Broth: A rich beef broth is key to developing that deep, savory base for the sauce. Low-sodium broth works best, so you can control the saltiness of the final dish.

Sour Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and tangy. Use full-fat sour cream for the best texture and flavor, though low-fat works in a pinch.

Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the flavor foundation for the dish. Dice them finely to ensure they melt into the sauce.

Special equipment? Not much! A large skillet or sauté pan will do the job beautifully, and you’ll need a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon to stir everything together.

How To Make This Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Making beef stroganoff is simpler than you might think. Let me guide you through the steps for a quick and delicious dinner.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once fully browned, remove it from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and toss in the onion and mushrooms. Sauté until softened and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to scrape up those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Next, stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour, stirring constantly to coat the vegetables. This helps thicken the sauce later.

Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Return the cooked beef to the pan, and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finally, serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Dinner is served!

Storage Options

Beef stroganoff makes fantastic leftovers, and it’s easy to store for later.

To refrigerate, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better with time!

For freezing, let the stroganoff cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

When reheating, warm it gently over medium heat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

This beef stroganoff recipe is endlessly adaptable to suit your taste or dietary needs.

For a lighter version, swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt. It offers a similar tangy flavor with fewer calories.

Not a fan of mushrooms? No problem! Try diced bell peppers or zucchini instead for a different texture and flavor.

Vegetarian? Replace the beef with plant-based ground meat or cooked lentils. Use vegetable broth in place of beef broth for a fully meat-free option.

Want to elevate the dish? Add a splash of white wine or sherry to deglaze the pan after cooking the onions and mushrooms. It adds a sophisticated depth of flavor.

Finally, experiment with your starch. While egg noodles are classic, this dish pairs wonderfully with creamy polenta or crusty bread for soaking up that luscious sauce.

No matter how you make it, this easy beef stroganoff is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to. So grab your skillet and get cooking – comfort food is calling!

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