Classic Beef Stroganoff – A Creamy One-Skillet Wonder

Classic Beef Stroganoff – A Creamy One-Skillet Wonder

Key Info:

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 20-30 minutes

Total time: 30-40 minutes

Servings: 4-6

Difficulty: Easy-Intermediate

Dietary tags: Non-vegetarian, Contains dairy

Equipment Needed:

• Large skillet
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon
• (Alternative: Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed saucepan)

Ingredients:

Beef and Protein:

• 1-1.5 lbs sirloin or ribeye, thinly sliced
• [Substitute: Ground beef for budget-friendly option]

Noodles:

• 8-12 oz egg noodles
• [Gluten-free option: Rice or gluten-free noodles]

Sauce Ingredients:

• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2-3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 8-12 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 2-3 tbsp flour
• ½ cup sour cream
• 1-2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish:

• Chopped parsley
• Optional: Paprika

Method:

1. Prep Your Ingredients
   • Slice beef into thin strips
   • Pat beef dry and season with salt and pepper
   • Chop onions, garlic, and mushrooms
   • Measure out all sauce ingredients
2. Sear the Beef
   • Heat olive oil in skillet over medium-high heat
   • Sear beef in batches (1-2 minutes per side)
   • Do not overcrowd the pan
   • Remove beef and set aside
3. Build the Flavor Base
   • Reduce heat to medium
   • Add butter to skillet
   • Sauté onions until translucent
   • Add mushrooms and garlic
   • Cook for 4-5 minutes
4. Create the Sauce
   • Sprinkle flour over vegetables
   • Cook for 1 minute
   • Gradually whisk in beef broth
   • Add Worcestershire sauce and mustard
   • Simmer and reduce for 5 minutes
5. Combine and Finish
   • Return beef to skillet
   • Gently stir to coat in sauce
   • Cook for 2-3 minutes
   • Remove from heat
   • Stir in sour cream
   • Adjust seasonings
6. Serve
   • Plate over egg noodles
   • Garnish with parsley
   • Optional: Sprinkle paprika

Crucial Tips:

• Sear beef in batches to prevent steaming
• Don’t overheat when adding sour cream
• Adjust sauce consistency with extra broth if needed

Storage:

• Refrigerate in airtight container
• Consume within 3 days
• Reheat gently with splash of broth

Variations:

• Alcohol twist: Add splash of brandy
• Lighter version: Use Greek yogurt
• Vegetarian: Replace beef with extra mushrooms

Pro Chef Secrets:

• High heat for perfect beef sear
• Layer flavors gradually
• Balance cream with tangy mustard
• Don’t rush the sauce reduction

Nutrition Highlight:

• High protein
• Rich in B vitamins
• Moderate calorie count

This beef stroganoff isn’t just a meal – it’s a creamy, comforting journey that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dinner. Enjoy every single bite!