Old Fashioned Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Comfort food at its best, old-fashioned beef stroganoff brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table like few other dishes can. This classic recipe combines tender strips of beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce served over egg noodles, tempting anyone with its rich flavors. If you’re looking for a delightful way to reconnect with homemade meals or impress your family, this timeless beef stroganoff recipe might just become your new favorite.
Why Make This Recipe
- The creamy sauce is rich and comforting, making it perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings.
- It’s a simple and quick dish that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience.
- Satisfying and filling, this recipe is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
How to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stroganoff
Creating your own old-fashioned beef stroganoff at home is easier than you might think. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can craft this delicious dish that will transport you back to comforting meals shared with loved ones. Let’s dive right into how to make it.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Old Fashioned Beef Stroganoff
Cook the Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. It’s important to salt the water to enhance the flavor of the noodles. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook them according to the package instructions until they’re al dente. Drain them well but drizzle a little olive oil over the noodles to prevent them from sticking together.Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced beef in batches; sautéing in batches helps to achieve that perfect browning without overcrowding the pan. Season the beef with salt and pepper as it cooks. It should take about 2-3 minutes to brown on all sides, but do not cook it fully yet. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside while you prepare the next step.Sauté the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter. Toss in the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms, letting them sauté for around 5-7 minutes. You want the onions to soften and the mushrooms to release their moisture and start turning golden.Create the Sauce
Once the vegetables are ready, sprinkle the flour over them and stir to combine. This will help thicken your sauce later. Cook this mixture for another minute, allowing the flour to absorb some flavors. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to keep the mixture smooth and lump-free. Add in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard if you choose to include it. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly.Combine the Beef and Sauce
Return the browned beef to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the sauce. Let everything simmer together for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the beef to cook through and absorb the rich flavors of the sauce. The aroma wafting through your kitchen at this stage will be irresistible!Add the Sour Cream
Once the beef is tender, remove your skillet from the heat. It is now time to stir in the sour cream until it’s fully incorporated, making the sauce creamy and smooth. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.Serve
Finally, serve your beautiful beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped fresh parsley. This not only adds a vibrant touch but also a hint of freshness that complements the dish perfectly.
Storage Tips for Old Fashioned Beef Stroganoff
Storing leftover beef stroganoff correctly ensures you can enjoy this comforting dish for days. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days at 40°F or below.
- Freeze: If you’re looking to keep it longer, transfer your stroganoff to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen stroganoff overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore creaminess as it reheats.
Best Ways to Serve Old Fashioned Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for different occasions. Here are a few serving ideas to elevate your meal:
- Classic Presentation: Serve the stroganoff atop a bed of egg noodles for a traditional feel that showcases the dish’s creamy sauce.
- With a Side Salad: Pair it with a light, crisp green salad dressed with vinaigrette. This addition balances the richness of the stroganoff.
- Warm Breads: Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up any leftover sauce, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Vegetable Accompaniments: Consider steamed asparagus or broccoli on the side to add a burst of color and nutrients to your plate.
- Garnish Options: Fresh herbs like dill or chives make for unique garnishes that can add flavor and visual appeal.
Tips to Make Old Fashioned Beef Stroganoff
To fine-tune your beef stroganoff to perfection, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Use tender cuts of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Don’t rush the browning step. Taking the time to sear the meat properly adds depth of flavor.
- Consider using a mix of mushrooms for a more complex taste and texture.
- Stir in the sour cream off the heat to maintain its creamy consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; every palate is different!
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re feeling adventurous or need to accommodate dietary preferences, there are several ways to adapt this classic dish:
- For a Healthier Alternative: Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter touch without sacrificing creaminess.
- For a Heartier Option: Add sliced bell peppers or green beans during the sautéing stage for added nutrients and a colorful presentation.
- Mushroom Variants: If cremini or button mushrooms aren’t available, try using portobello mushrooms for an intense umami flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare beef stroganoff a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Substitute chicken breast or thighs for a lighter variation of this dish while keeping similar cooking methods.
How do I keep it from being bland?
A: Ensure you season your beef properly during each cooking step. Adding Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard also enhances the flavor significantly.
Beef stroganoff is not just a dish; it’s a legacy of warmth and comfort that transcends generations. The creamy sauce wraps around the tender beef and noodles, creating a satisfying experience that feels like a hug in a bowl. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll surely find more reasons to love this enduring classic. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself, old-fashioned beef stroganoff is guaranteed to impress!
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Old Fashioned Beef Stroganoff
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A classic comfort food dish with tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce served over egg noodles.
Ingredients
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 lb thinly sliced beef (sirloin or tenderloin)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon butter (for sautéing vegetables)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and drizzle with olive oil.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches, seasoning with salt and pepper, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter, onion, and mushrooms; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Sprinkle flour over vegetables and stir for 1 minute. Gradually add beef broth while stirring until smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce and mustard, bring to a simmer for 5 minutes.
- Return beef to the skillet, simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream. Adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve over egg noodles and garnish with parsley.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using a mix of mushrooms or adding bell peppers during the sautéing stage.