Introduction
Transform humble beef and noodles into a restaurant-quality Beef Stroganoff that’s ready in under 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, proving that delicious comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. Get ready to impress your family with this creamy, dreamy dish!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a perfect balance of speed, ease, and incredible flavor. Using readily available ingredients and simple techniques, you’ll achieve a rich and satisfying Stroganoff without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients
- 🥩 1 lb beef sirloin steak, thinly sliced
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🍄 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 🧈 2 tbsp butter
- 🥄 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 🥛 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 🥛 ½ cup heavy cream
- 🧀 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (or Swiss cheese)
- 🌿 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
- 🍝 8 oz egg noodles
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Beef: Cut the beef sirloin into thin strips. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
3️⃣ Brown the Beef: Add the seasoned beef strips to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetables, stirring constantly to combine. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
5️⃣ Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Gruyère cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the fresh parsley.
6️⃣ Cook the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to package directions.
7️⃣ Combine and Serve: Drain the noodles and add them to the skillet with the beef stroganoff. Toss gently to combine. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your beef is cooked to a safe internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of beef broth and red wine.
- If your sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Don’t overcook the noodles; they should be al dente.
Heat Control
Medium-high heat is used initially to brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, ensuring a nice sear and tender texture. Low heat is crucial for the sauce to thicken without burning, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Crunch Factor
While not overtly crunchy, the slightly browned mushrooms and the al dente noodles offer a pleasing textural contrast to the creamy sauce.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For even faster cooking, use pre-sliced mushrooms and pre-shredded cheese.
- Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick.
- A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors.
Storage Tips
Store leftover Beef Stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or in the microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish makes a wonderful gift! Package individual portions in attractive containers with a festive ribbon. A handwritten recipe card adds a personal touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Stroganoff: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce.
🌟 Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff: Double the amount of mushrooms for a more intense mushroom flavor.
🌟 Garlic Stroganoff: Add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic to the onions while sautéing.
🌟 Bacon Stroganoff: Crumble 4 slices of cooked bacon and stir it into the sauce before adding the cream and cheese.
Troubleshooting
- Sauce too thin: Simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Beef too tough: Use a very thinly sliced beef or pound the beef to tenderize before cooking.
- Mushrooms too watery: Ensure you cook the mushrooms until they release their liquid and brown slightly.
FAQ
- Can I use different noodles? Yes, you can use other types of noodles, such as fettuccine or pappardelle.
- Can I make this ahead of time? You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Cook the noodles separately just before serving.
- Can I freeze this? Yes, you can freeze leftover Stroganoff for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What kind of beef is best? Sirloin is a good choice, but you can also use other lean cuts of beef, such as tenderloin or flank steak.
Conclusion
This Irresistible Easy Beef Stroganoff is a weeknight winner! It’s quick, easy, and tastes amazing. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Share your creations with us on social media using #AngelRecipesBeefStroganoff! Happy cooking!