Beef Stroganoff is one of those dishes you make once—and then keep making over and over again. It’s quick, cozy, silky, and full of rich flavor, yet it comes together in under 30 minutes. Tender beef, savory mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sauce all tossed with warm noodles… it’s comfort food at its finest, without a lot of effort.
Whether you need a fast weeknight dinner, something satisfying on a chilly evening, or a recipe that always turns out right, this quick Beef Stroganoff delivers every single time. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and so delicious you’ll be tempted to make it again before the week is over.
2. Ingredients
This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together to create a rich and creamy sauce with major flavor.
Ingredients List
For the Stroganoff
- 1 lb beef sirloin, flank, or ground beef (thinly sliced if using steak)
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups sliced mushrooms
- 1 tbsp flour (for thickening)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dijon mustard (optional but recommended)
For Serving
- Cooked egg noodles, pasta, or rice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Add-Ins
- Spinach
- Peas
- Extra mushrooms
- Fresh thyme
Key Ingredients
Beef: Thin slices cook fast and stay tender. Ground beef works great for a budget-friendly version.
Mushrooms: Add depth and umami to the sauce.
Sour Cream: The signature creamy tang that makes Stroganoff irresistible.
Beef Broth: Builds a savory base for the sauce.
Worcestershire: Adds richness and that classic Stroganoff flavor.
Optional Add-Ons / Variations
- Light Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
- Extra Creamy: Add 2 tbsp cream cheese.
- Budget-Friendly: Use ground beef instead of steak strips.
- Mushroom Lover’s: Double the mushrooms.
- Herby: Add fresh dill or thyme.
- Gluten-Free: Serve over rice or gluten-free pasta.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
This recipe cooks fast—perfect for busy evenings.
Preparation Steps
- Slice beef thinly if not using ground beef.
- Chop onions, slice mushrooms, and mince garlic.
- Cook egg noodles or pasta and set aside.
- Gather broth, sour cream, and seasonings.
Cooking Steps
- Brown the beef:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
- Remove beef and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables:
- Add butter to the same pan.
- Add onions and cook until soft.
- Add mushrooms and cook until browned.
- Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
- Build the sauce:
- Sprinkle flour over the veggies and mix.
- Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.
- Stir until slightly thickened.
- Make it creamy:
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add sour cream and dijon mustard.
- Stir until smooth and creamy (don’t boil).
- Combine:
- Return beef to the pan and simmer 2–3 minutes.
- Add cooked noodles or serve sauce over them.
- Finish:
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Garnish with parsley.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over egg noodles for a classic feel.
- Use mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
- Pair with steamed broccoli or green beans.
- Add a side salad or crusty bread.
- Spoon over rice for a cozy, budget-friendly meal.
4. Tips, Substitutions & Notes
These simple tips help Stroganoff turn out perfect every time.
Pro Tips for Better Results
- Slice beef thinly so it stays tender and cooks quickly.
- Don’t boil after adding sour cream—keeps sauce silky, not grainy.
- Use a hot pan to brown beef properly.
- Add more broth if sauce gets too thick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking beef—it becomes tough.
- Letting the sauce boil after adding dairy.
- Adding sour cream too early.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Beef → mushrooms + spinach for vegetarian
- Sour cream → Greek yogurt or crème fraîche
- Egg noodles → rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta
- Worcestershire → soy sauce + dash of vinegar
Texture, Flavor & Health Variations
- Add spinach for extra nutrients.
- Add peas for sweetness.
- Add chili flakes for heat.
- Add cream cheese for extra richness.
5. Storage & Reheating
Stroganoff stores beautifully and reheats with amazing flavor.
Refrigeration
Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezing
Freeze sauce (without noodles) for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
- Stovetop: Low heat, add a splash of broth or cream.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stir often.
Avoid high heat to prevent sauce from separating.
6. Nutrition (Approximate)
(per serving)
- Calories: 400–550
- Protein: 25–30g
- Carbs: 30–40g
- Fat: 20–28g
- Fiber: 2–3g
- Sodium: Moderate
7. Conclusion
This quick Beef Stroganoff is comforting, creamy, and unbelievably delicious—yet ready in just minutes. It’s the kind of recipe you rely on again and again because it never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or guests, it’s warm, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a repeat favorite.