Simple Beef Stroganoff Recipe: A Creamy, Comforting Classic
Looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and satisfying? Look no further than this simple beef stroganoff recipe! This classic dish is surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and even less time. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe delivers rich, creamy flavors that the whole family will love.
What You'll Need: Ingredients for Easy Beef Stroganoff
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the most novice cooks. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced (You can also use other tender cuts like tenderloin or ribeye)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini, button, or a mix work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Egg noodles or your favorite pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making the Perfect Beef Stroganoff
This recipe is designed for simplicity and speed. Follow these steps to achieve creamy, delicious perfection:
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices and sear until browned on both sides. This step helps to develop a richer flavor. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the sour cream, sherry (if using), and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the seared beef to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. The beef should be heated through and the sauce should be creamy and rich.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or your favorite pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff
- Thinly sliced beef: Using thinly sliced beef ensures it cooks quickly and evenly.
- Don't overcook the beef: Overcooked beef will be tough. Aim for a tender, juicy result.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and Dijon mustard to your preference.
- Add a touch of paprika: For a smoky flavor, add a pinch of paprika to the sauce.
- Serve immediately: Beef stroganoff is best served fresh.
This simple beef stroganoff recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a fantastic option for a comforting weeknight meal that's both easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. Enjoy!
