Classic Beef Stroganoff
Beef Stroganoff is a timeless comfort dish that originated in Russia and became a worldwide favorite for its tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and luxurious creamy sauce. This classic version balances savory flavors with gentle tang from sour cream, creating a silky sauce that clings beautifully to noodles or rice.The secret to a great stroganoff is quick-searing the beef so it stays tender, then building layers of flavor with onions, mushrooms, broth, and a touch of mustard. It’s elegant enough for guests, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner—ready in under 40 minutes.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20–25 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Beef & Base
500 g (1 lb) beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
Sauce
1 medium onion, finely chopped
250 g (8 oz) mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1½ cups beef broth
¾ cup sour cream (room temperature)
To Serve
Cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Beef
Place the sliced beef in a bowl. Sprinkle with flour, salt, and pepper, tossing lightly to coat.
This helps seal in juices and slightly thickens the sauce later.
Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tbsp butter + olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add beef in batches and sear quickly (30–45 seconds per side) until just browned.
Remove and set aside—do not overcook.
Cook the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp butter.
Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and turn golden (5–7 minutes).
Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Build the Sauce
Add Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well.
Pour in beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan.
Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until slightly reduced.
Add Sour Cream
Lower the heat to low.
Stir in sour cream slowly until smooth and creamy.
Do not boil, or the sauce may curdle.
Return the Beef
Add the beef (and any juices) back into the skillet.
Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until beef is warmed through and tender.
Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Stroganoff
Slice beef against the grain for maximum tenderness
Use full-fat sour cream for best texture
If sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth
For deeper flavor, substitute half the broth with mushroom stock
Final Thoughts
This Classic Beef Stroganoff is rich, creamy, and deeply comforting—everything a traditional stroganoff should be. It’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and never goes out of style. Perfect for family dinners or when you’re craving old-fashioned comfort food