Classic Beef Stroganoff Recipe: 7 Steps To Creamy Comfort
Hearty, creamy, and packed with savory flavors, this Beef Stroganoff II recipe brings steak, mushrooms, and onions together for a beloved classic dinner.
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Classic Beef Stroganoff II: The Ultimate Comfort Food
Beef Stroganoff II is a timeless recipe that combines tender strips of steak, sautéed mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sour cream sauce, all served over a bed of noodles or rice. This beloved dish is a staple in many kitchens due to its rich flavor, simple ingredients, and quick preparation. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare and enjoy a perfect beef stroganoff dinner.
What is Beef Stroganoff?
Beef Stroganoff is a classic Russian-inspired dish that has become a favorite worldwide. Traditionally made with sautéed beef, mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sauce, it is typically served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. The dish is known for its tender meat and velvety sauce—making it the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients for Beef Stroganoff II
To prepare Beef Stroganoff II, gather these staple ingredients:
- 1 pound sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized strips
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups sliced fresh mushrooms
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 teaspoons Dijon or prepared mustard
- 8 ounces egg noodles (or rice, for serving)
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make classic Beef Stroganoff II:
- Prepare the Beef: Cut the sirloin steak into thin, bite-sized strips. Season with salt and pepper.
- Sauté the Steak: In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the steak strips and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the steak from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Sauté chopped onions until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they soften and brown, about 5 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Stir the flour into the vegetables, cooking for 1 minute to toast it lightly. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring, making sure to deglaze the pan and incorporate the flour for a smooth sauce.
- Add Sour Cream and Mustard: Lower the heat. Stir in the sour cream and mustard, mixing gently to combine and avoid curdling. Simmer until the sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
- Combine and Finish: Return the browned steak strips (and any juices) to the skillet. Stir until everything is heated through and coated with sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Spoon the stroganoff over hot, cooked egg noodles or rice. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Beef Stroganoff
- Use a tender cut of beef like sirloin or tenderloin for the best texture. Slice across the grain for extra tenderness.
- Don’t overcook the beef; browning it quickly keeps it juicy and tender.
- To prevent curdling, add sour cream off the heat or on low, and never let the sauce boil after adding it.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but add it at the end to avoid separating.
- For deeper flavor, splash a little white wine or Worcestershire sauce into the sauce before simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Beef Stroganoff II is highly versatile. Here are some popular ways to serve it:
- Egg Noodles: The most classic base, capturing the sauce beautifully.
- Rice: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and offering a gluten-free alternative.
- Mashed Potatoes: A hearty, comforting option ideal for colder months.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a lighter plate, serve with roasted carrots, beans, or broccoli on the side.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400–450 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 23g |
| Fat | 24g |
| Sodium | 650mg |
Note: Nutritional details may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftover stroganoff in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the stroganoff (without noodles) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often to maintain a smooth sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
Try these creative spins on the classic recipe:
- Ground Beef Stroganoff: Use ground beef for a budget-friendly and faster version. Follow the same method, adding the cooked ground beef back to the sauce.
- Chicken Stroganoff: Substitute boneless chicken breast or thighs and adjust cooking time as needed.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with extra mushrooms, tofu, or seitan. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Slow Cooker Stroganoff: Brown the meat and onions, then add all ingredients (except sour cream) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours. Stir in sour cream just before serving.
What others are reading
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What cut of beef is best for beef stroganoff?
Sirloin steak is ideal for its tenderness and flavor. You can also use rump steak, tenderloin, or even beef chuck if simmered longer for tenderness.
Can I make beef stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stroganoff in advance. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days and gently reheat before serving. Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.
Is beef stroganoff gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by substituting gluten-free flour and serving over rice or gluten-free noodles.
Can I freeze beef stroganoff?
Yes. For best results, freeze the meat and sauce mixture without the noodles. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, or even heavy cream with a dash of lemon juice can be substituted for sour cream. Add these alternatives just before serving to prevent separation.
Expert Tips for the Best Stroganoff
- Sear beef in small batches to avoid overcrowding and ensure browning.
- Deglaze the pan with wine or broth after browning the beef for extra flavor.
- Use full-fat sour cream for the creamiest texture.
- Season as you go! Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and mustard to your liking.
Recipe Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 10 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4–6 |
| Main Ingredients | Steak, mushrooms, onions, sour cream |
| Serving Options | Egg noodles, rice, potatoes |
Final Thoughts: Why We Love Beef Stroganoff II
Beef Stroganoff II stands out as a dinner favorite for its rich combination of flavors, ease of preparation, and comforting appeal. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the many variations, this dish is sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites. Perfect for family meals, dinner parties, or cozy nights in, this recipe delivers every time. Try it once, and it may just become a staple at your table.
References
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/25202/beef-stroganoff-iii/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/16105/beef-stroganoff-ii/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/16311/simple-beef-stroganoff/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/16352/slow-cooker-beef-stroganoff-i/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/220059/chef-johns-classic-beef-stroganoff/
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