If you’re craving something hearty, comforting, and irresistibly creamy, this Creamy Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms is exactly what you need. This classic dish combines tender beef strips, sautéed mushrooms, and onions, all simmered in a luxurious sour cream sauce. The balance of savory, tangy, and rich flavors makes it one of those timeless meals that never fail to satisfy. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a special meal for guests, this Stroganoff brings warmth and elegance to your table without requiring hours of effort.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

• 600 g (1.3 lbs) beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced into strips

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• 1 large onion, finely sliced

• 250 g (9 oz) mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or mixed)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

• 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 150 ml (⅔ cup) sour cream

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Cooked egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice (for serving)

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef dry with paper towels to help it brown evenly. Season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in small batches, searing them for about 2–3 minutes per side until lightly browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if necessary. Add the onions and cook for about 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms release their liquid and begin to brown. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Build the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the cooked mushrooms and onions, stirring well to coat them evenly. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3–5 minutes until it begins to thicken.

4. Add Flavor and Creaminess: Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Reduce the heat to low and gently add the sour cream, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

5. Combine and Finish: Return the seared beef to the pan, along with any accumulated juices. Simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until the beef is cooked through and tender. Be sure not to boil the sauce after adding sour cream, as it can separate.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Spoon the creamy Stroganoff over a bed of egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Nutrients

• Calories: 480 kcal per serving

• Protein: 33 g

• Carbohydrates: 15 g

• Fat: 31 g

• Fiber: 2 g

• Sodium: 570 mg

• Calcium: 85 mg

• Iron: 3 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll fall in love with this Creamy Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms for its rich, velvety texture and deep flavor. The combination of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and tangy sour cream creates an indulgent yet balanced dish. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something comforting without it being too complicated. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that’s both family-friendly and impressive enough for guests. The sauce alone is so delicious that you’ll find yourself spooning every last bit from the pan.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

The story of Beef Stroganoff goes back to 19th-century Russia, where it was named after the wealthy Stroganov family. Originally, it was a simple dish made with beef cubes cooked in a sour cream sauce, seasoned lightly with mustard. As it spread across Europe and America, cooks began adding onions, mushrooms, and richer sauces to enhance the flavor. Over time, it evolved into the creamy, mushroom-laden version we enjoy today. It’s a beautiful fusion of rustic Russian simplicity and Western culinary refinement — a true global comfort dish that bridges cultures and tastes.

Ingredient Spotlight

Beef: The choice of beef is key. Use sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye for tenderness and flavor. Slice it thinly against the grain to ensure every bite stays juicy and tender.
Mushrooms: These bring an earthy depth to the dish. Button mushrooms work perfectly, but you can also use cremini, portobello, or a mix for a more complex flavor.
Sour Cream: This is the ingredient that gives Stroganoff its distinctive tang and creaminess. Always add it off the heat to avoid curdling.
Dijon Mustard and Worcestershire Sauce: These enhance the umami flavor and add subtle acidity, balancing the richness of the cream.
Onions and Garlic: These aromatics create the flavorful foundation of the sauce, ensuring every bite bursts with savory depth.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, let the Stroganoff cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from separating. If it thickens too much, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back its silky consistency. Avoid freezing, as the cream may separate once thawed — but if you must, freeze before adding sour cream and stir it in after reheating for the best texture.

Common Variations to Try

• Chicken Stroganoff: Swap beef for chicken breast or thigh meat for a lighter version.

• Vegetarian Stroganoff: Skip the beef and double the mushrooms, or add lentils, chickpeas, or tofu for a protein boost.

• Creamy White Wine Stroganoff: Add a splash of dry white wine before the broth for a more refined, restaurant-quality sauce.

• Spicy Stroganoff: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for a subtle heat.

• Healthier Version: Use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt and olive oil instead of butter for a lighter twist.

Pairing Recommendations

Beef Stroganoff is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with several sides. The classic option is buttered egg noodles, which perfectly soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even buttery polenta. For sides, consider steamed green beans, asparagus, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness. When it comes to drinks, a dry red wine like Merlot or Pinot Noir complements the beef, while a sparkling water with lemon provides a refreshing contrast.

Health Benefits

This comforting dish isn’t just delicious — it’s also packed with nutrients. Beef provides high-quality protein, iron, and vitamin B12, supporting muscle health and energy. Mushrooms contribute antioxidants and immune-boosting compounds. Onions and garlic contain anti-inflammatory properties and help support heart health. Using olive oil and a lighter sour cream makes the meal more balanced without losing its indulgent flavor. It’s a dish that nourishes the body and comforts the soul.

Conclusion

Creamy Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms is a dish that perfectly blends luxury and comfort. From its rich, creamy sauce to its tender beef and savory mushrooms, every bite is a reminder of why this dish has remained a favorite for generations. It’s simple enough for a family meal yet elegant enough for entertaining. The creamy sauce hugs the beef and mushrooms beautifully, creating a harmony of flavors that’s impossible to resist. Whether it’s a cold winter night or a cozy weekend dinner, this Stroganoff delivers pure comfort in a bowl — timeless, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying.