Creamy Beef Stroganoff: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe
Are you craving a rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying meal? Look no further than this classic Beef Stroganoff recipe! This dish is perfect for a cozy night in, a special occasion, or impressing dinner guests. We'll walk you through each step, ensuring a perfectly tender beef and a luxuriously creamy sauce every single time. Get ready to savor this timeless classic!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Adjust quantities as needed for your crowd.
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain (this is crucial for tenderness!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced (or your favorite type!)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Egg noodles or wide fettuccine, cooked according to package directions
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef: Pat the sliced beef sirloin dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper. This step helps ensure a good sear.
2. Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender.
4. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the beef broth and white wine (if using), ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine and Simmer: Return the seared beef to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, stir in the sour cream, and simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is heated through and the sauce is creamy. Do not boil, as this can curdle the sour cream.
6. Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the Beef Stroganoff immediately over cooked egg noodles or fettuccine. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Perfect Beef Stroganoff:
- Thinly sliced beef is key: This ensures tender beef that cooks quickly and evenly.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Sear the beef in batches to achieve a good sear.
- Low and slow: Simmer the sauce gently to prevent the sour cream from curdling.
- Taste and adjust: Season the dish to your liking.
- Get creative with mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
- A side salad with a light vinaigrette
- Crusty bread for dipping into the creamy sauce
- A glass of dry white wine
Enjoy your delicious homemade Beef Stroganoff! Let us know in the comments how yours turns out! Remember to share this recipe with your friends and family – it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
