Comfort Food Beef Stroganoff

Name: Comfort Food Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef tenderloin, sliced into strips; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 2 tbsp flour; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Egg noodles or rice for serving

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Favorites

I absolutely love how comforting and indulgent this Beef Stroganoff is. The creamy sauce envelops tender chunks of beef and mushrooms, creating a dish that's perfect for both special occasions and cozy dinners at home. As I prepare it, the rich aroma fills my kitchen, reminding me of family gatherings where this classic recipe was a staple. Each bite brings a wave of nostalgia and satisfaction, making it a recipe I always come back to when I want to feel warm and cared for.

Created by

Lucy Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:01:36.049Z

After experimenting with various recipes, I found that the key to a rich Beef Stroganoff is using quality cuts of beef and letting them sear perfectly in the pan. This step locks in the flavors and creates a beautiful base for the sauce. I also discovered that adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce at the end really elevates the taste, giving it that umami kick that’s hard to resist.

Another tip I love to share is to allow the sauce to simmer gently before serving. This extra time melds the flavors beautifully and results in a creamy, luscious texture. I always serve this dish over buttery egg noodles, but it pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes, too!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh orange zest
Creamy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of beef is crucial for a tender Beef Stroganoff. I highly recommend using beef tenderloin as it provides the most tenderness and flavor. If you prefer a more economical cut, you can use sirloin; just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain to ensure it's not tough. For the mushrooms, I love using cremini or shiitake for their rich umami flavor, but white button mushrooms work perfectly too.

When it comes to the creamy sauce, don't skimp on the quality of sour cream. A full-fat version will yield the best, creamiest results that coat the beef and mushrooms beautifully. The Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of flavor and balances the richness with its tangy notes. If you want to cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, but I recommend tasting and adjusting the seasoning to your preference.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Searing the beef is a pivotal step that no one should overlook. When you place the beef in the hot skillet, resist the urge to stir it too early; let it sit for about three minutes per side until it's beautifully browned. This browning not only creates flavor through the Maillard reaction but also enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the dish. If you find yourself with residual bits stuck to the pan, don't worry—these will dissolve into the sauce and enrich the flavor.

The key to a luscious sauce lies in the way you combine the ingredients. After adding the flour to the sautéed vegetables, be sure to cook it for at least a minute before adding the broth. This step helps to eliminate the raw flour taste and creates a more complex flavor profile. Stirring constantly as you pour in the broth will help avoid lumps, ensuring a silky sauce that clings to the beef and mushrooms perfectly.

Ingredients

For the Beef Stroganoff

1 lb beef tenderloin, sliced into strips
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Egg noodles or rice for serving

Instructions

Sear the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, then add to the hot skillet. Sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken, about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream and Worcestershire sauce. Return the beef to the skillet and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until everything is heated through. Serve over egg noodles or rice.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. This will brighten the dish and enhance the creamy elements.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of my favorite things about Beef Stroganoff is that it stores beautifully, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Once cooled, place the leftover stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three days. Just make sure to store the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy. When reheating, do so gently over low heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain the creamy texture.

If you're planning to enjoy this dish later, consider preparing the components separately. You can cook the beef and sauce in advance and store them in the fridge. On the day you want to serve it, simply reheat the sauce and toss it with freshly cooked noodles or rice. This strategy allows you to enjoy the full flavors without spending too much time in the kitchen on the day of serving.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While egg noodles are a classic choice for serving Beef Stroganoff, feel free to get creative! This dish also pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, mashed potatoes, or even a bed of sautéed spinach for a healthier twist. For a bit of garnish, I often sprinkle fresh parsley or chives right before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of white wine after sautéing the onions and mushrooms. Allow it to reduce before adding the broth; this addition will bring another layer of flavor. For a heartier dish, consider incorporating vegetables like carrots or peas, which complement the beef and add a lovely color contrast to the plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of beef?

Yes, you can use cuts like sirloin or chuck, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of Beef Stroganoff?

Absolutely! You can replace the beef with portobello mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Beef Stroganoff in advance and reheat it gently. However, the noodles are best cooked fresh right before serving.

→ What can I serve with Beef Stroganoff?

Beef Stroganoff pairs wonderfully with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, along with a simple side salad for freshness.