Looking for a quick, comforting meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor? Simple Beef Stroganoff is the perfect dish! This classic Russian-inspired recipe features tender beef slices simmered in a creamy, savory sauce with mushrooms, onions, and a hint of Dijon mustard. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Unlike complex versions of this dish, our simple Beef Stroganoff recipe is beginner-friendly and requires minimal ingredients while delivering restaurant-quality taste. Whether you serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, this creamy, rich dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Table of Contents
What is Beef Stroganoff?
Beef Stroganoff is a beloved dish with Russian origins, featuring tender strips of beef cooked in a rich, creamy sauce flavored with mushrooms, onions, and a touch of mustard. Traditionally, it’s served over egg noodles, rice, or potatoes, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
A Brief History
Beef Stroganoff dates back to the 19th century and is named after the Stroganov family, a wealthy Russian dynasty. The dish became popular worldwide due to its rich yet simple flavors. Over time, different regions have put their own spin on it, with variations including sour cream-based sauces, tomato-infused versions, and even slow-cooker adaptations.
What Makes This Recipe “Simple”?
While traditional Beef Stroganoff recipes can be complex, our simple version keeps it:
✔️ Fast & Easy – Made in one pan with minimal prep.
✔️ Fewer Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for a no-fuss meal.
✔️ Beginner-Friendly – No advanced cooking skills required.
By following this recipe, you’ll achieve the same creamy, savory goodness in less time and with fewer ingredients—without sacrificing flavor!
Ingredients Needed for Simple Beef Stroganoff
To make this easy and delicious Beef Stroganoff, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together for a rich, creamy, and savory dish.
Main Ingredients
- Beef – Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are the best cuts for a tender and flavorful Stroganoff. Slice the beef thinly for quick cooking.
- Butter or Oil – Helps sear the beef to lock in juices and adds richness to the sauce.
- Onion & Garlic – These key aromatics bring out rich, savory notes, adding complexity to the overall flavor profile.
- Mushrooms (Optional but Recommended) – Adds an earthy, umami taste. You can opt for white button, cremini, or baby bella mushrooms for a delicious, earthy flavor.
- Beef Broth – Adds a rich, hearty foundation to the sauce, intensifying its savory taste. Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Sour Cream – Creates the signature creamy Stroganoff sauce with a slightly tangy taste.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a subtle tang and enhances the flavor of the sauce.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Brings umami depth and balances the richness of the dish.
- Flour or Cornstarch – Helps thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning the beef and sauce.
Optional Additions & Substitutions
✅ No Mushrooms? Leave them out or replace them with zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.
✅ Gluten-Free? Use cornstarch instead of flour and serve over gluten-free pasta or rice.
✅ Dairy-Free? Swap sour cream for coconut cream or dairy-free yogurt.
✅ Low-Carb/Keto? Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash instead of egg noodles.
With these simple ingredients, you’re just minutes away from a creamy, comforting, and restaurant-quality Beef Stroganoff!
How to Make Simple Beef Stroganoff (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Making Simple Beef Stroganoff at home is quick and easy! Just follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a creamy, flavorful dish ready in 30 minutes.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
✔️ Slice the beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
✔️ Chop the onions and mince the garlic.
✔️ Clean and slice the mushrooms if using them.
📌 Pro Tip: Freezing the beef for 10–15 minutes before slicing makes it easier to cut into thin strips.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
1️⃣ Heat 1 tablespoon of butter or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Add the sliced beef in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side, until browned.
3️⃣ Transfer the beef to a plate and set it aside.
📌 Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking the beef at this stage—it will finish cooking in the sauce later.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms & Aromatics
1️⃣ In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the onions until softened (about 3 minutes).
2️⃣ Add the mushrooms and cook until browned and tender (about 5 minutes).
3️⃣ Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
📌 Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking mushrooms—this helps them brown instead of steam.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
1️⃣ Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free) over the mushrooms and stir well.
2️⃣ Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.
3️⃣ Stir in 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce.
📌 Pro Tip: Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly before adding sour cream.
Step 5: Combine Everything & Simmer
1️⃣ Reduce heat to low and stir in ½ cup of sour cream until smooth.
2️⃣ Return the seared beef to the pan and simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
3️⃣ Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
📌 Pro Tip: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth. If too thin, simmer a bit longer.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
- Plate the Beef Stroganoff atop egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for extra flavor.
🔥 And there you have it—Simple Beef Stroganoff in just 30 minutes!
Pro Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff
Want to take your Simple Beef Stroganoff to the next level? Follow these expert tips to ensure perfect texture, rich flavor, and a creamy sauce every time.
1️⃣ Choose the Right Cut of Beef
- The best cuts for tender Stroganoff are sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin.
- Avoid tough cuts like stew meat unless you plan on slow-cooking it.
- Slice against the grain to break down fibers and ensure tender beef.
📌 Pro Tip: Freezing the beef for 10–15 minutes before slicing makes it easier to cut thinly!
2️⃣ Don’t Overcook the Beef
- Sear the beef quickly over high heat for 1–2 minutes per side.
- Overcooking can make it tough and chewy—let it finish cooking in the sauce instead.
📌 Pro Tip: Remove the beef from the pan after searing and add it back at the end to keep it juicy!
3️⃣ Perfect the Sauce Consistency
- If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer or add a slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or milk to thin it out.
📌 Pro Tip: Always add sour cream at the end and stir gently to prevent curdling.
4️⃣ Enhance the Flavor with Secret Ingredients
- Dijon mustard & Worcestershire sauce add depth to the creamy sauce.
- A pinch of paprika or smoked paprika gives a subtle, smoky richness.
- A splash of white wine (before adding the broth) enhances the umami flavor.
📌 Pro Tip: For extra richness, swap half the sour cream with heavy cream!
5️⃣ Best Side Dishes to Serve With Stroganoff
- Classic: Egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
- Low-carb: Zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.
- Crunchy contrast: Garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
📌 Pro Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness!
By following these pro tips, you’ll create a restaurant-quality Beef Stroganoff that’s packed with flavor and perfect texture!
Serving Suggestions for Simple Beef Stroganoff
Once your Simple Beef Stroganoff is ready, it’s time to make the meal truly delicious and satisfying with the perfect side dishes and pairings! Here are some fantastic serving ideas that will elevate your dish and leave everyone asking for seconds.
1️⃣ Classic Sides to Serve with Beef Stroganoff
- Egg Noodles – The traditional pairing for Beef Stroganoff. Their soft texture absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Mashed Potatoes – Rich and creamy, mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food to accompany your Stroganoff.
- Rice – Whether you choose white, brown, or wild rice, it provides a simple, neutral base that complements the rich sauce.
2️⃣ Low-Carb/Keto Options
- Zucchini Noodles – Light, fresh, and low in carbs, zucchini noodles are an excellent alternative to egg noodles.
- Cauliflower Mash – A creamy, low-carb substitute for mashed potatoes that’s packed with flavor.
- Cauliflower Rice – Another low-carb option that mimics rice while keeping the dish light.
3️⃣ Side Salads to Balance the Richness
- Fresh Green Salad – A light, crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the creamy beef.
- Roasted Vegetables – Roasted carrots, green beans, or asparagus offer a slight crunch and natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with Beef Stroganoff.
- Garlic Bread – If you’re craving a little extra indulgence, warm, buttery garlic bread is a perfect side to soak up the creamy sauce.
4️⃣ Beverage Pairings
- Red Wine – A glass of Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs beautifully with the savory beef and creamy sauce.
- White Wine – If you prefer white wine, try a Chardonnay with a touch of oak for a complementary richness.
- Sparkling Water – For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a wedge of lemon can be a refreshing choice to balance the creamy meal.
5️⃣ Garnish & Final Touches
- Fresh Parsley – A sprinkle of chopped parsley adds color and a fresh flavor to the dish.
- A Dollop of Sour Cream – For extra creaminess, add a spoonful of sour cream or crème fraîche on top before serving.
- Paprika or Freshly Ground Pepper – A pinch of smoked paprika or cracked black pepper adds a subtle kick to the dish.
These serving suggestions ensure that your Simple Beef Stroganoff is not only delicious but also well-balanced with perfect accompaniments. The right side dishes can turn this recipe into a full, satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Storing & Reheating Simple Beef Stroganoff
If you have leftovers from your Simple Beef Stroganoff, don’t worry—this dish stores and reheats beautifully, making it the perfect meal for the next day! Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious for future meals.
How to Store Beef Stroganoff
1️⃣ Cool the Stroganoff completely before storing.
2️⃣ Transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
📌 Pro Tip: For best results, store the beef and sauce separately from the side dishes like noodles or rice to keep everything fresh.
How to Freeze Beef Stroganoff
1️⃣ Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or Ziploc bag.
2️⃣ Label the container with the date, and store in the freezer for up to 2–3 months.
📌 Pro Tip: If you plan to freeze the dish, avoid freezing the noodles. They tend to become mushy when reheated. Instead, freeze the beef and sauce, and cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to eat.
How to Reheat Beef Stroganoff
From the Refrigerator:
1️⃣ Transfer the Stroganoff to a pan and reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking or burning.
2️⃣ If the sauce thickens too much during reheating, add a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen it up.
From the Freezer:
1️⃣ Thaw the Stroganoff overnight in the refrigerator.
2️⃣ Reheat in a pan over low heat until warmed through, adding liquid as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
📌 Pro Tip: Reheating in a pan rather than a microwave helps retain the creamy texture of the sauce.
With these storing and reheating tips, your Simple Beef Stroganoff will stay fresh, flavorful, and ready to enjoy again!
Conclusion
Simple Beef Stroganoff is the perfect combination of rich flavors, creamy texture, and tender beef, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this easy-to-follow recipe guarantees a satisfying meal that will impress your family and guests.
By following our expert tips, you can easily customize this dish to suit your preferences, making it as flavorful as possible while ensuring a smooth, creamy sauce every time. From choosing the best cuts of beef to perfecting the sauce and pairing it with delicious sides, you’re all set to make this classic dish at home.
Give it a try, and remember to share your version with us on social media! We’d love to see how you make Simple Beef Stroganoff your own.
For more mouth-watering recipes and tips, check out our other posts and join our growing community of food lovers. Bon appétit!
Simple Beef Stroganoff
Equipment
- – Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Measuring Cups
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, sliced
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup mushrooms sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add onions and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 3: Stir in mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for 1 minute.
- Step 4: Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3 minutes.
- Step 5: Lower the heat, stir in sour cream, and return the beef to the pan. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Step 6: Season with salt and pepper. Serve over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
- For a healthier version, use low-fat sour cream or add more vegetables like spinach.
FAQ
1. What is Beef Stroganoff?
Beef Stroganoff is a classic Russian dish featuring tender strips of beef cooked in a creamy sauce made with sour cream, mustard, and often mushrooms and onions. It’s traditionally served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
2. Can I use ground beef instead of steak for Stroganoff?
Yes, ground beef can be used as a more affordable and quicker alternative to steak. While it may not provide the same texture as sliced steak, it still delivers a delicious and comforting meal.
3. What are some variations of Beef Stroganoff?
Beef Stroganoff has numerous variations, including:
Chicken Stroganoff: Substitute beef with chicken for a lighter version.
Vegetarian Stroganoff: Replace meat with mushrooms or other vegetables.
Sausage Stroganoff: Use sausage for a different flavor profile.
Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff: Prepare the dish in a slow cooker for convenience.
4. How do I prevent the beef from becoming tough in Stroganoff?
To ensure tender beef:
Use tender cuts: Opt for cuts like sirloin or tenderloin.
Avoid overcooking: Sear the beef quickly over high heat and cook it just until heated through in the sauce.
Slice against the grain: This helps in breaking down muscle fibers, resulting in more tender meat.
5. Is it possible to prepare Beef Stroganoff in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance and store them separately from the noodles. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook fresh noodles to maintain the best texture.
6. What can I serve with Beef Stroganoff?
Beef Stroganoff pairs well with:
Egg noodles: A traditional choice that complements the creamy sauce.
Mashed potatoes: Their creamy texture pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.
Rice: A neutral base that allows the flavors of the Stroganoff to shine.
Steamed vegetables: Such as broccoli or green beans, adding color and nutrition to the meal.
7. How do I store and reheat leftover Beef Stroganoff?
Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to three or four days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to adjust the consistency if needed. Reheating in the microwave is not recommended, as it may cause the sauce to break and lose its creamy texture.
8. Can I freeze Beef Stroganoff?
Yes, you can freeze the beef and sauce separately from the noodles. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and keep it for up to 2–3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. It’s best to cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.
9. What can I use instead of sour cream in Beef Stroganoff?
If you’re looking for an alternative flavor or need a replacement:
Greek yogurt: Provides a comparable tanginess while boosting the protein content.
Heavy cream: Provides a richer, creamier texture.
Crème fraîche: A milder alternative with a subtle tang.
10. Is Beef Stroganoff spicy?
Traditional Beef Stroganoff is not spicy. However, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to introduce some heat if desired.