How to Make Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff Perfectly

There’s something truly special about a classic Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff that never goes out of style. Whether you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal or looking for a dish that’s perfect for quick family dinners, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s one of those easy pasta recipes that combines tender beef, flavorful mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce, all served over a bed of soft egg noodles. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinner ideas!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • A classic, comforting dish that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser
  • Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for quick family dinners
  • Uses simple, accessible ingredients that are likely already in your pantry
  • A versatile recipe that can be served with noodles, rice, or even as a low-carb option
  • Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, making it a great choice for special occasions or cozy nights in

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff:

  • 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced thinly
  • 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat recommended)
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter (for sautéing)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff. It’s a straightforward recipe that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

  1. Prepare the Beef and Vegetables: Slice the beef sirloin against the grain into thin strips for tenderness. Chop the onion and slice the mushrooms.
  2. Sear the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add the beef strips and sear until browned on all sides (about 3 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions: In the same skillet, add more butter if needed, then sauté onions and mushrooms until soft (about 5 minutes).
  4. Add Garlic and Broth: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; simmer gently while scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan.
  5. Combine and Simmer: Return the beef to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat, then fold in sour cream until fully blended.
  6. Serve: Serve over egg noodles or your choice of side, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Use High-Quality Beef: Beef sirloin is a great choice for this recipe because it’s tender and lean. Look for a good cut of beef to ensure the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t Overcook: Beef strips can become tough if overcooked. Sear them quickly and then set them aside to finish cooking later.
  • Enhance the Flavor: The combination of beef broth and Worcestershire sauce adds a depth of flavor that makes this dish stand out. Don’t skip these ingredients!
  • Add Some Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.

How to Serve

While this Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff is delicious on its own, it’s even better when paired with the right sides. Here are some ideas:

  • Egg Noodles: The classic choice, egg noodles soak up the creamy sauce perfectly.
  • Rice: A simple white or brown rice is a great base for this dish.
  • Steamed Vegetables: Add some green beans, asparagus, or broccoli for a balanced meal.
  • Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, serve with a slice of garlic bread to mop up the sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

One of the best things about this recipe is that it can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce and cook the beef up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and combine just before serving.
  • Refrigerate: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
  • Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked dish (without noodles) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

There you have it—a classic Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s one of those easy pasta recipes that’s both comforting and elegant, perfect for quick family dinners or special occasions. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out!

Overhead shot of a skillet filled with creamy beef stroganoff, garnished with fresh parsley.

Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff

A classic Russian dish featuring tender beef, flavorful mushrooms, and a rich sour cream sauce, served over egg noodles.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Russian
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb beef sirloin sliced thinly
  • 8 oz fresh mushrooms sliced (button or cremini)
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup sour cream full-fat recommended
  • 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter for sautéing
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Slice the beef sirloin against the grain into thin strips for tenderness. Chop the onion and slice the mushrooms.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add the beef strips and sear until browned on all sides (about 3 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add more butter if needed, then sauté onions and mushrooms until soft (about 5 minutes).
  4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; simmer gently while scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the pan.
  5. Return the beef to the skillet and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Remove from heat, then fold in sour cream until fully blended.
  6. Serve over egg noodles or your choice of side, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

For an authentic touch, serve over cooked egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.