Beef Stroganoff is the epitome of creamy, savory goodness. Tender beef pieces in a rich, velvety sauce made with mushrooms, onions, and a hint of mustard, all served over a bed of soft, buttery egg noodles. This dish has been a favorite for generations, and it’s no wonder why—its comforting, satisfying flavors are sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re preparing a family meal or hosting a dinner party, Beef Stroganoff never disappoints.

The beauty of this easy Beef Stroganoff recipe is in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal preparation, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish in under an hour. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal, this dish offers an indulgent, hearty experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stroganoff

There are so many reasons to adore this Beef Stroganoff recipe. It’s quick to make, easy to follow, and incredibly flavorful. The creamy sauce adds richness to the beef, while the mushrooms bring depth and earthiness to each bite. The pasta absorbs the delicious sauce, making it a perfect complement. It’s the kind of comfort food that’s ideal for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) are just as good the next day!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment + Importance of Each Tool

To make Beef Stroganoff, you’ll need a few essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient. Here’s a list of the key equipment:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – This is the main vessel where you’ll cook the beef and sauce. A wide, heavy-bottomed pan ensures even heat distribution, allowing the beef to sear properly and the sauce to reduce perfectly without burning.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – A sturdy spoon or spatula is essential for stirring the beef and sauce without damaging the pan or sticking to the ingredients. It’s best to use something heat-resistant to avoid melting.
Sharp Knife – You’ll need a sharp knife to cut the beef into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure clean cuts and help the meat cook evenly.
Cutting Board – A large, stable surface for chopping your vegetables and beef. Using a separate cutting board for meat is recommended for hygiene reasons.
Measuring Cups & Spoons – Accurate measurements of ingredients like broth, sour cream, and seasonings will help you recreate the flavors perfectly every time.
Lid for Skillet – If you want to simmer the beef and sauce, a lid will help trap heat and moisture, ensuring that the beef stays tender and juicy.

Preparation Tips

Slice the Beef Thinly – For tender pieces, slice the beef against the grain and into thin strips. This helps it cook quickly and remain juicy.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Let your beef and sour cream come to room temperature before cooking. This helps with even cooking and prevents the sauce from curdling when you add the sour cream.
Brown the Beef Well – Don’t rush the process of browning the beef. You want to get a nice, deep sear on the meat, which will enhance the flavor of the sauce.
Mushrooms Matter – Fresh mushrooms work best in this dish. Ensure they’re cleaned properly (but don’t soak them in water, as they’ll become soggy).
Adjust Seasoning to Taste – Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper levels to your preference. You can also add a little Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth of flavor.

Ingredients for Easy Beef Stroganoff

For this comforting dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a rich and flavorful meal. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need:

Beef (1 lb) – Choose a tender cut of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, cut into thin strips. This ensures your beef remains juicy and cooks quickly.
Egg Noodles (8 oz) – The traditional base for Beef Stroganoff. They soak up the creamy sauce and complement the beef perfectly.
Mushrooms (8 oz) – Fresh mushrooms, preferably cremini or button mushrooms, sliced thinly.
Yellow Onion (1 medium) – Finely chopped to add flavor and sweetness to the sauce.
Garlic (2 cloves) – Minced for a punch of aromatic flavor.
Beef Broth (1 cup) – This will form the base of your sauce, adding richness and depth.
Sour Cream (1/2 cup) – For that signature creamy texture and slight tang.
Dijon Mustard (1 tbsp) – A small amount adds a subtle sharpness that balances the richness of the dish.
Flour (1 tbsp) – Used to thicken the sauce to a velvety consistency.
Butter (2 tbsp) – For sautéing the beef and vegetables, adding richness to the sauce.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – For searing the beef and ensuring it doesn’t stick to the pan.
Salt & Pepper – To taste, for seasoning the beef and sauce.

Step 1, Step 2, 3 …

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 7-9 minutes, until they’re tender but still firm (al dente). Drain the noodles and set them aside. Be sure to save a little bit of pasta water in case you need it to thin the sauce later.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced beef in a single layer. Let it sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s browned. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your pan to avoid overcrowding. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms soften and release their moisture, becoming golden brown.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed mushrooms and onions, stirring constantly for about 1 minute to cook out the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine, and allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. Stir in the Dijon mustard, followed by the sour cream, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Beef and Noodles

Add the seared beef back into the skillet, stirring it into the sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to reheat the beef and allow the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve the Beef Stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles, garnishing with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Enjoy your creamy, comforting dish!

Notes

Beef Options: While sirloin or tenderloin are ideal for this recipe, you can also use other cuts of beef like flank steak or round steak. Just be sure to slice them thinly across the grain for tenderness.
Vegetable Variations: You can experiment by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra color and flavor. However, the mushrooms are key to the dish’s signature taste.
Creaminess Adjustment: If you prefer an even creamier sauce, you can increase the amount of sour cream or add a little heavy cream. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to balance the richness.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcooking the Beef: Beef Stroganoff should feature tender, juicy beef. If you cook the beef for too long in the pan, it can become tough. Sear it just until browned, and then set it aside to keep it tender.
Not Browning the Beef Properly: It’s essential to get a good sear on the beef for flavor. If you skip this step or overcrowd the pan, the beef won’t caramelize properly, which can result in a bland sauce.
Skipping the Flour Step: The flour is crucial for thickening the sauce. If you don’t give it time to cook in the pan before adding the broth, you might end up with a watery sauce instead of the creamy texture you want.
Adding Sour Cream Too Early: If you add the sour cream too early while cooking at a high temperature, it could curdle. Make sure to reduce the heat to low before stirring it in to avoid this issue.
Not Tasting the Sauce: Always taste your sauce before serving! A pinch of salt or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can elevate the flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your preference.

What to Serve With Easy Beef Stroganoff?

Beef Stroganoff is rich and flavorful on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can take your meal to the next level. Here are some great options to serve alongside this creamy, hearty dish:

1. Garlic Bread

A warm, crispy loaf of garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce left on your plate. The garlic and buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with Beef Stroganoff.

2. Steamed Vegetables

For a lighter, healthier side, try pairing the dish with steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. They add a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the Stroganoff.

3. Roasted Asparagus

The earthy taste of roasted asparagus is a great contrast to the creamy texture of the Beef Stroganoff. Drizzle some olive oil and season with salt and pepper before roasting for a simple, yet elegant side.

4. Mixed Green Salad

A crisp, refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the dish. Try a simple arugula salad with lemon and olive oil for a nice balance.

5. Mashed Potatoes

If you want to make the meal extra indulgent, serve your Beef Stroganoff over mashed potatoes. The creamy sauce blends perfectly with the soft, buttery potatoes.

6. Crispy Roasted Potatoes

For something with a bit more texture, roasted potatoes are a fantastic choice. Their crispy edges provide a nice contrast to the smooth sauce of the Stroganoff.

7. Sautéed Spinach

A quick sauté of spinach with garlic and olive oil makes for a light, nutritious side that complements the flavors of Beef Stroganoff.

8. Pickled Cucumbers or Gherkins

For a little tang and crunch, serve your Beef Stroganoff with pickled cucumbers or gherkins. The acidity will balance out the richness of the sauce and add a delightful crunch.

Storage Instructions (and Reheating)

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because this dish is so delicious!), storing and reheating Beef Stroganoff is simple.

Storing Leftovers:

In the Fridge: Store the Beef Stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness.
In the Freezer: While Beef Stroganoff is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Simply place the cooled stroganoff in a freezer-safe container or a zip-top bag, and remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating:

On the Stovetop: To reheat, place the Beef Stroganoff in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth, water, or cream to loosen the sauce, and stir occasionally until it’s heated through.
In the Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave on medium heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until fully heated. Again, you may want to add a bit of liquid to keep the sauce creamy.

Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition for one serving of Beef Stroganoff, assuming you serve it with egg noodles:

Calories: 500-600 calories
Protein: 35-40g
Fat: 30-35g
Carbohydrates: 40-45g
Fiber: 2-3g
Sodium: 800-1000mg
Cholesterol: 90-100mg

These numbers will vary depending on your choice of ingredients and portion sizes, but overall, this dish provides a good balance of protein, carbs, and fats, making it a hearty, satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of pasta for Beef Stroganoff?

Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or even rice. The key is to choose something that will hold up well against the creamy sauce.

2. Can I make Beef Stroganoff with ground beef instead of steak?

Absolutely! Ground beef works well for this recipe and is a quicker, more affordable alternative. Just brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding the vegetables and making the sauce.

3. Can I freeze Beef Stroganoff?

Yes, Beef Stroganoff can be frozen, though the texture of the sauce may change slightly once reheated. To freeze, cool the dish completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat on the stove with a little extra liquid to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.

4. Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine or red wine can add depth to the sauce. If using wine, allow it to cook down for a couple of minutes before adding the broth and sour cream.

5. Is Beef Stroganoff gluten-free?

Traditional Beef Stroganoff contains gluten due to the flour and noodles. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour substitute and serving it with gluten-free pasta or rice.

6. Can I use heavy cream instead of sour cream?

Yes, if you prefer a richer flavor, you can substitute sour cream with heavy cream. Keep in mind that the sour cream provides a tangy kick, so the dish may taste slightly different without it.

7. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, you can add a little more flour at the beginning, or let the sauce simmer for longer to reduce and concentrate the flavors. Alternatively, a slurry of cornstarch and water can also help thicken the sauce without changing the flavor too much.

8. What’s the best cut of beef to use for Beef Stroganoff?

Tender cuts like sirloin, tenderloin, or flank steak are ideal for Beef Stroganoff. These cuts cook quickly and remain tender. Avoid tougher cuts, as they may become chewy when cooked in the sauce.

Conclusion

Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort dish that delivers on flavor, richness, and heartiness. With its tender beef, creamy sauce, and soft noodles, it’s a meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to more formal gatherings. Plus, with its relatively simple ingredients and steps, it’s easy to make even on a busy night. Whether you stick with the traditional recipe or make a few adjustments to suit your taste, Beef Stroganoff is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.