Name: Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Russian Fusion
Ingredients: 600g/1.2lb scotch fillet steak or boneless rib eye.; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided.; 1 large onion, sliced.; 300g/10oz mushrooms, sliced.; 40g/3 tablespoons butter.; 2 tablespoons flour.; 2 cups beef broth.; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.; 150ml/2/3 cup sour cream.; Salt and pepper to taste.; 250-300g pasta or egg noodles.; Chopped chives for garnish (optional).

A bowl of egg noodles topped with beef, mushrooms, and cream sauce, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and chopped herbs. | tastygusto.com

Memories of my mother's Beef Stroganoff still make my mouth water. After years of perfecting her recipe in my own kitchen I've captured that same magic of tender beef swimming in a rich mushroom cream sauce. This recipe brings together simple ingredients that transform into pure comfort food in under 30 minutes. Trust me your kitchen will smell incredible.

Why This Recipe Is the Best

This Beef Stroganoff recipe ensures perfectly tender beef every time. Using high-quality steak and the 30-second sear method locks in the juices and flavor. Paired with the creamy mushroom gravy, this recipe is guaranteed to elevate your dinner table.

Best Cuts of Beef for Stroganoff

Boneless Rib Eye: Also known as scotch fillet, it offers rich marbling and exceptional flavor.
Boneless Sirloin: A leaner option that's still tender and flavorful.
Sirloin Steak Tips: Perfect for quick cooking and maintaining juiciness.
Beef Tenderloin: The most tender option for this dish.

How to Prepare the Beef

The 30-Second Sear: Heat a skillet to smoking hot. Sear thin beef strips for 30 seconds on each side to develop flavor. The beef will still be slightly raw but will finish cooking in the gravy.
Season Well: Season the beef strips with salt and pepper just before searing to enhance the flavor of the meat.

Ingredients for Stroganoff Sauce

Beef Broth: Forms the base of the sauce, adding depth of flavor.
Sour Cream: Creates the creamy consistency and tangy flavor.
Mushrooms: Sautéed for an earthy, rich addition to the sauce.
Flour: Thickens the gravy to the perfect consistency.
Mustard: Adds a subtle kick and balances the richness of the cream.

Steps to Make Beef Stroganoff

Prepare the Beef: Slice the beef into thin strips and sear them quickly in a hot skillet.
Make the Gravy: Sauté mushrooms until golden, then add beef broth, mustard, and flour. Simmer until thickened.
Combine: Add the sour cream and seared beef to the sauce. Cook briefly to finish the beef.

Serving Suggestions

I love spooning this luxurious stroganoff over buttery egg noodles but it's equally delicious with fluffy mashed potatoes. Sometimes I serve it with zucchini noodles when I'm craving something lighter. A side of garlicky green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts adds the perfect touch of color and crunch.

Pro Tips for Perfect Stroganoff

Through countless dinner parties I've learned that getting your pan smoking hot is crucial for that perfect sear. Don't overcrowd the pan with beef or it'll steam instead of sear. And always let your sour cream come to room temperature it blends much more smoothly into the sauce.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Beef Stroganoff keeps well in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. For freezing, store in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to prevent the beef from overcooking and ensure the sauce stays creamy.

A Comfort Food Classic

This dish never fails to bring smiles to my dinner table. There's something magical about the way the tender beef and rich mushroom sauce come together. It's become my go to recipe for cozy winter nights and casual dinner parties alike.

Variations for Beef Stroganoff

Over the years I've experimented with different twists on this classic. Sometimes I'll deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine for extra depth or stir in a spoonful of grainy mustard. For vegetarian friends I make an incredible version with extra mushrooms and rich vegetable stock.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Beef Stroganoff recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and elegance. The combination of tender beef, creamy mushroom gravy, and rich flavors ensures it's a standout dish on any dinner table, ideal for both casual meals and celebrations.

Pairing Ideas for Stroganoff

In my house we love ending stroganoff night with a light citrus sorbet it cuts through the richness perfectly. A crisp Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce. Don't forget some crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of that amazing gravy.

A serving of egg noodles topped with tender beef and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and chopped chives. | tastygusto.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What's the best cut of beef to use?: Best cuts are boneless rib eye (scotch fillet), sirloin steak, or beef tenderloin. For economical cuts, use the Chinese velveting method to tenderize the meat.
→ Why sear the beef so quickly?: Quick searing (30 seconds each side) ensures the beef stays juicy. Don't worry about pink bits as the beef will finish cooking when added back to the sauce.
→ Can I make this ahead?: Yes, it keeps 3-4 days in the fridge and freezes well. When reheating, do so carefully to avoid overcooking the beef.
→ How do I prevent the beef from overcooking?: Don't continue simmering the sauce to thicken it once the beef is added back in. If needed, thin the sauce with water instead.
→ What can I serve this with?: Short pasta works best for easy eating, but it's also great with mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta - anything that can soak up the delicious gravy.

Beef Stroganoff