Classic Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff

Classic Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff Recipe – Creamy, Hearty, and Irresistibly Comforting!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of old-fashioned beef stroganoff — it’s creamy, hearty, and feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This classic dish brings together tender strips of beef, a rich mushroom sauce, and buttery egg noodles, creating a nostalgic dinner that never goes out of style. Whether you’re cooking for your family or want to impress dinner guests, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s flavorful, filling, and surprisingly simple to make. Plus, it uses basic ingredients you probably already have in your pantry, making it a budget-friendly favorite for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home.

Serving Size, Prep Time, and Cook Time

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Required

You don’t need anything fancy to make this recipe. Here’s what you’ll want to have ready:

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Medium pot for boiling noodles

Ingredients

For the Beef Stroganoff:

• 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced into strips
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• 8 oz egg noodles or mashed potatoes

How to Make Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff

1. Sear the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in batches and sear until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add butter, onions, and mushrooms. Cook until softened and golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and stir well to coat. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add mustard and Worcestershire sauce, then bring to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens.
4. Combine and Simmer: Return the beef to the skillet and reduce heat to low. Stir in sour cream and mix until creamy. Cook for 5–7 minutes, but don’t let it boil (to avoid curdling).
5. Serve: Spoon over cooked egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Tips for the Perfect Stroganoff

• Use tender beef cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for the best texture. Tougher cuts can turn chewy.
• Don’t overcook the beef. Just sear it quickly on high heat to lock in the juices.
• Avoid curdling the sauce by adding sour cream after removing the pan from direct heat.
• For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Boiling after adding sour cream: This can cause separation and ruin the texture.
• Skipping the sear: Browning the meat adds deep, savory flavor to the sauce.
• Overcrowding the pan: Cook beef in batches to ensure even browning.
• Using low-fat sour cream: It can make the sauce watery instead of creamy.

Variations and Substitutions

• Mushroom Stroganoff (Vegetarian): Skip the beef and double up on mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
• Ground Beef Stroganoff: Use ground beef instead of strips for a budget-friendly option that cooks faster.
• Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the sour cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of egg noodles.

How to Store and Meal Prep

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium-low heat. Add a splash of broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick.
• Meal Prep Tip: Cook noodles separately and store them dry. Combine just before serving to keep the texture perfect.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve your old-fashioned beef stroganoff over a bed of buttery egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes. Add a side of roasted green beans or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a touch of paprika for color. If you’re hosting guests, serve it in a shallow bowl with a swirl of sour cream on top — it looks restaurant-worthy and tastes just as good.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make beef stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the sauce and beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving.

Q: What’s the best cut of beef for stroganoff?
Sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye are great options. They’re tender and flavorful, perfect for quick cooking.

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely. Greek yogurt makes a great substitute, but make sure to add it at the end and avoid high heat to prevent curdling.

Q: What can I serve instead of noodles?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.

Old-fashioned beef stroganoff is one of those timeless recipes that never fails to please. With tender beef, a velvety mushroom sauce, and a comforting base of noodles or potatoes, it’s a true classic that deserves a spot in your weekly dinner rotation. Whether you stick to the traditional version or try one of the creative variations, this dish will make your kitchen smell amazing and your table feel warm and inviting. It’s simple, satisfying, and guaranteed to impress every single time.