Impressive and Easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe for Last-Minute Guests
Whenever I have guests coming over on short notice, I want to prepare something that’s both impressive and satisfying, without having to spend hours in the kitchen. This Beef Stroganoff is my go-to dish. It’s rich, creamy, and full of flavor, yet it comes together quickly and pairs perfectly with a lively salad. I love how it always gets rave reviews from my guests, making it the perfect meal when I want to impress without the stress.
Did You Know?
Beef Stroganoff is a dish with deep Russian roots, dating back to the 19th century when it was named after the wealthy Stroganov family. Originally, the dish was quite simple, consisting of sautéed beef in a basic sauce. It wasn’t until later that ingredients like mushrooms and onions were added, transforming it into the creamy, savory dish we know and love today. Interestingly, Stroganoff became a global sensation during the 20th century, spreading across Europe and America, where it was embraced for its rich flavor and hearty appeal. The dish has been adapted in countless ways, with some versions featuring mustard, wine, or even a splash of brandy to deepen the flavor.
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds beef sirloin, cut into thin strips
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1.5 large onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups mushrooms, sliced
- 1.5 cups beef broth
- 1.5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1.5 cups sour cream
- 1.5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
Cook Egg Noodles:
Personal Tip: Cooking the noodles first and setting them aside makes serving quick and easy, especially when you’re managing multiple dishes.
Boil 12 ounces of egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook Beef:
Personal Tip: To keep the beef tender, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary, to get a nice sear on each piece.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and cook until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
Personal Tip: Sautéing the onions, garlic, and mushrooms until they’re golden brown adds depth to the dish, making the final sauce rich and flavorful.
In the same skillet, cook the onions, garlic, and mushrooms until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Prepare Sauce:
Personal Tip: Adding the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the pan while it’s still hot helps deglaze the skillet, capturing all those delicious browned bits.
Add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Thicken Sauce:
Personal Tip: To avoid lumps, mix the sour cream and flour until smooth before adding to the sauce. Stir continuously as the sauce thickens.
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream and flour until smooth. Stir this mixture into the skillet and cook until the sauce thickens. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve:
Personal Tip: Serve the beef stroganoff over egg noodles for a classic presentation, but mashed potatoes or rice also make excellent alternatives.
Serve the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories, 600 | Protein, 40g | Carbohydrates, 50g | Fiber, 3g | Net Carbohydrates, 47g | Fat, 25g | Saturated Fat, 10g | Cholesterol, 150mg | Sodium, 800mg | Sugars, 5g | Glycemic Index, Medium
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Choosing Beef: Use beef sirloin for the best texture and flavor. For a more economical option, try using beef chuck or stew meat, but cook it longer to ensure tenderness.
- Mushroom Varieties: Experiment with different types of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or portobello for varied flavors and textures.
- Thickening Alternatives: If you prefer a gluten-free option, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
- Adding Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can be added just before serving for a burst of freshness.
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Freezing Tips: Beef Stroganoff can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a side of green beans or a simple salad to round out the meal.
- Reducing Fat: For a lighter version, use light sour cream and reduce the amount of olive oil used for cooking.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of brandy or white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
- Cost-Saving Tips: Buy beef in bulk when it's on sale and freeze portions for future use. Using store-brand ingredients can also help reduce costs without sacrificing quality.
Let’s Learn About Sirloin Beef – What to Watch For
Sirloin is one of the most popular cuts of beef due to its tenderness and flavor, but not all sirloin is created equal. When purchasing sirloin, look for a cut that is bright red in color, indicating freshness, and has a small amount of marbling, as this will help keep the meat moist during cooking. Avoid cuts that look pale or gray, as these may be older and less flavorful. Also, check for the “grain” of the meat—sirloin with finer grain will be more tender. Sirloin is a versatile cut that works well in quick-cooking recipes like stir-fries and stroganoff, but it’s also delicious grilled or pan-seared for a more classic preparation.