Classic Beef Stroganoff from Scratch Recipe

If you have ever craved a rich, comforting meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and delights every bite, then you are in for a treat with this Classic Beef Stroganoff from Scratch Recipe. This dish brings tender strips of beef enveloped in a creamy mushroom and sour cream sauce, delivering a perfect harmony of savory and tangy flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Made from scratch, this recipe celebrates simple, quality ingredients that come together to create a timeless comfort food favorite everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of the Classic Beef Stroganoff from Scratch Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the tender beef to the earthy mushrooms and luscious sour cream, these essentials are all you need to make a truly satisfying meal.

• 1 pound Beef (sirloin or tenderloin): Thin strips offer the perfect tenderness and quick cooking time to keep your stroganoff juicy and flavorful.
• 1 medium Onion: Finely chopped to provide sweetness and depth as it caramelizes in the pan.
• 8 ounces Mushrooms (preferably cremini or button): Sliced to add an earthy, meaty texture that complements the beef beautifully.
• 2 cloves Garlic: Minced for a subtle punch of aromatic flavor that elevates the entire dish.
• 2 cups Beef broth (low-sodium recommended): The backbone of the sauce, enriching it with savory notes without overpowering.
• 1 cup Sour cream (full-fat): Adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness perfectly.
• 2 tablespoons Flour: Essential for thickening the sauce to the perfect consistency without lumps.
• 2 tablespoons Butter: Used for sautéing to develop deep, caramelized flavors in the beef and vegetables.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all other flavors without stealing the spotlight.
• Egg noodles: The traditional bed for stroganoff that soaks up the sauce beautifully and adds a comforting chew.

How to Make Classic Beef Stroganoff from Scratch Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Begin by getting everything ready—slice the beef thinly to ensure quick, even cooking, finely chop the onion for sweetness, slice your mushrooms to release that lovely earthiness, and mince the garlic so it can infuse the dish with that irresistible aroma. Good prep sets the stage for a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted and shimmering. Place the beef strips in a single layer and sear for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side. The goal is to get a nice golden crust without fully cooking the meat through. This step locks in flavor and keeps your beef tender. Once browned, remove and set aside to rest.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet, add chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. The onions release natural sweetness that deepens the flavor of your stroganoff sauce beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes. You want them nicely browned and for their moisture to evaporate, intensifying their flavors and avoiding a watery sauce later on. This adds a satisfying texture contrast to the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Add Garlic

Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute. Garlic needs just enough time to soften and release its aroma without turning bitter, so keep an eye on it!

Step 6: Incorporate the Flour

Sprinkle flour evenly over the mushroom and onion mixture, stirring well to coat everything. Cook for 2 minutes to get rid of that raw flour taste, ensuring your sauce will be silky and smooth.

Step 7: Add Beef Broth and Simmer

Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes. This step is where your sauce begins to take shape, becoming luscious and flavorful.

Step 8: Return Beef to the Skillet

Slide the seared beef back into the pan and let it cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the meat to absorb the rich sauce without becoming tough. This reunites all flavors perfectly.

Step 9: Stir in Sour Cream

Turn the heat down to low and gently fold in the sour cream until fully incorporated. This gives your stroganoff its signature creamy texture and a subtle tang that brightens the dish.

Step 10: Season to Taste

Season with salt and pepper carefully—taste as you go, since the beef broth and sour cream add saltiness. This final seasoning layer brings the entire dish together.

Step 11: Prepare the Egg Noodles

Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Once drained, toss them with a little butter to keep them silky and prevent sticking. These noodles are the perfect comfort base for the stroganoff sauce.

Step 12: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the egg noodles first, then ladle the creamy beef stroganoff sauce over the top. This Classic Beef Stroganoff from Scratch Recipe reaches full glory when served piping hot, ready to comfort and delight.

How to Serve Classic Beef Stroganoff from Scratch Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish for stroganoff, adding a pop of vibrant green and a mild herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the dish. Feel free to sprinkle a little finely chopped parsley on top before serving, or even add a light dusting of paprika for extra color and flavor.

Side Dishes

This recipe shines best served over egg noodles, soaking up the creamy sauce perfectly. For a refreshing balance, consider serving alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, or steamed green beans for added crunch and color. Simple roasted vegetables like carrots or asparagus also make excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern twist, try serving this stroganoff in individual ramekins or deep bowls, topped with microgreens or a dollop of crème fraîche. You might also experiment pairing the sauce with mashed potatoes or polenta for a rustic touch. No matter how you plate it, this Classic Beef Stroganoff from Scratch Recipe always feels like a special occasion on your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making reheated stroganoff just as delightful. Consume within 3 days for the best taste and freshness.

Freezing

This stroganoff freezes well. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, making sure to cool it completely first. It will keep for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove to maintain the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat your leftover Classic Beef Stroganoff from Scratch Recipe gently over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent curdling of the sour cream. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high power to keep the texture luscious and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While sirloin or tenderloin are preferred for their tenderness and quick cooking, you can also use ribeye or even flank steak if thinly sliced. Just be mindful of cooking times to avoid toughness.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If sour cream isn’t your favorite or you’re avoiding dairy, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that still gives tang and creaminess. Just add it off the heat to prevent curdling.

Is it possible to make this stroganoff gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch for thickening, and make sure your beef broth is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Definitely. You can prep the beef and vegetables ahead of time, then assemble and cook when ready. The completed stroganoff holds up well in the fridge and tastes great reheated.

What’s the best way to get tender beef in stroganoff?

The key is slicing the beef thinly against the grain and searing it quickly over high heat. Avoid overcooking by adding it back to the sauce at the end for just a few minutes until heated through.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade comfort food made with care, and this Classic Beef Stroganoff from Scratch Recipe fits that bill perfectly. It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings together simple ingredients to create a meal that’s rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, I encourage you to dive into this recipe and enjoy every luscious bite. You’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!

Print