Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff has a way of bringing people together like no other dish. I remember my grandmother making this hearty beef stroganoff on chilly evenings, the aroma of savory beef and sweet caramelized onions filling our small kitchen. It was pure comfort in a bowl, especially served over those perfectly tender egg noodles. This easy creamy stroganoff recipe is my attempt to recreate that magic, and I think I’ve finally nailed it. It’s a classic beef stroganoff recipe that’s both simple to make and incredibly satisfying. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff
This isn’t just any dinner; it’s a heartwarming experience! Here’s why this recipe will become a family favorite:
- Incredibly Tender Beef: My secret freezing and searing technique ensures melt-in-your-mouth beef every time.
- Rich, Savory Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions, mushrooms, and savory broth creates an authentic stroganoff sauce.
- Perfectly Creamy Texture: You’ll discover why stroganoff is creamy thanks to the simple addition of sour cream at the end.
- Easy to Make: This simple stroganoff recipe comes together in about an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Comfort Food Classic: It’s the ultimate hearty beef stroganoff, guaranteed to satisfy everyone at the table.
- Versatile Serving: Delicious served over egg noodles, but also great with rice or mashed potatoes.
- Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the taste of authentic Russian stroganoff made right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients for Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff
Gather these ingredients for a truly authentic Russian stroganoff experience. This classic beef stroganoff recipe relies on quality components for its rich flavor:
- 1 ½ lbs beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced into strips – freezing briefly makes slicing easier for this tender beef stroganoff.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour – helps thicken the sauce for that signature creamy texture.
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt – essential for bringing out all the savory flavors.
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper – adds a subtle warmth.
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sunflower oil – for searing the beef and sautéing aromatics.
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter – adds richness to the caramelization process.
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced – caramelizing these brings a wonderful sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – for that aromatic depth.
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced – they add an earthy, savory note to the authentic stroganoff sauce.
- 1 tbsp tomato paste – a secret ingredient that deepens the umami.
- 1 cup beef broth, preferably low sodium – forms the base of our delicious sauce.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – adds a complex, savory kick.
- ½ cup full-fat sour cream – crucial for that classic creamy finish; don’t skimp!
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional) – adds a little tanginess that complements the richness.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish) – for a pop of color and freshness.
- 12 oz wide egg noodles – the perfect vehicle for this hearty beef stroganoff.
- Salted water for boiling noodles – don’t forget to salt your pasta water!
- Extra butter for tossing the noodles (optional) – a little extra luxury for your stroganoff with egg noodles.
How to Make Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and authentic Russian stroganoff right in your own kitchen. This classic beef stroganoff recipe is surprisingly straightforward!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Beef
- Step 1: Slice your beef into thin strips, about ¼ inch thick. For the cleanest cuts, freeze the beef for about 15-20 minutes to firm it up.
- Step 2: Once sliced, toss the beef strips with the all-purpose flour, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper until they are evenly coated.
Caramelizing Onions and Sautéing Mushrooms
- Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches, searing until nicely browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the seared beef to a plate and set aside.
- Step 4: Lower the heat to medium. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the same skillet. Add the thinly sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook slowly for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become beautifully caramelized and sweet.
- Step 5: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet with the onions. Cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, which usually takes about 7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until fragrant.

Building the Sauce
- Step 6: Stir the tomato paste into the onion-mushroom mixture. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing it to deepen in flavor.
- Step 7: Deglaze the pan by pouring in the beef broth, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard (if you’re using it).
Finishing the Stroganoff
- Step 8: Return the seared beef and any accumulated juices back into the skillet. Let everything simmer gently over low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the beef is tender. If you’re using a tougher cut of beef, cover the skillet and cook for an additional 30 minutes to ensure tenderness.
- Step 9: Turn off the heat. This is important! Stir in the full-fat sour cream until it’s fully incorporated and the sauce is wonderfully creamy. Stirring off the heat prevents the sour cream from curdling. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking the Noodles
- Step 10: While the stroganoff simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the wide egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain them well.
- Step 11: For an extra touch of richness, you can toss the drained noodles with a little extra butter. Serve the hearty beef stroganoff immediately over the prepared egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley for a beautiful finish.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff
Want to elevate your homemade beef stroganoff? I’ve picked up a few tricks that make a huge difference in achieving that perfect, authentic Russian stroganoff flavor and texture. Follow these tips for a truly memorable meal!
- Use good quality beef like sirloin or tenderloin for the most tender beef stroganoff.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing the beef; work in batches for a beautiful brown crust.
- Caramelize your onions slowly until they are deeply sweet and jammy – this is key to the sauce’s depth.
- Always stir the sour cream into the sauce *off the heat* to ensure it stays smooth and creamy.
What’s the secret to perfect Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff?
The secret lies in building layers of flavor: searing the beef properly, slowly caramelizing the onions for sweetness, and finishing the sauce gently with sour cream off the heat to keep it velvety smooth.
Can I make Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce and cook the beef up to 2 days in advance. Store separately in the refrigerator. Reheat gently and stir in the sour cream just before serving. Cook noodles fresh.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff?
Avoid overcooking the beef, which makes it tough. Also, never boil the sour cream; always stir it in off the heat to prevent curdling. Finally, don’t skip caramelizing the onions – it adds essential sweetness.
Best Ways to Serve Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff
This hearty beef stroganoff is incredibly versatile, making it a fantastic centerpiece for any meal. The classic pairing for this authentic Russian stroganoff is, of course, over a bed of tender egg noodles. The noodles are perfect for soaking up every bit of that rich, savory sauce. For a lighter option, consider serving this creamy beef stroganoff recipe over fluffy mashed potatoes or even a hearty grain like rice. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans offers a fresh contrast to the richness of the stroganoff with egg noodles. For more dinner inspiration, check out these latest recipes.
Nutrition Facts for Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings of delicious, creamy Russian style stroganoff. Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 750mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, especially the type of beef and broth. For more information on nutritional guidelines, consult a registered dietitian.
How to Store and Reheat Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff
Properly storing and reheating your delicious homemade beef stroganoff ensures you can enjoy this comforting dish again. Once the stroganoff has cooled completely, transfer it to airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep this classic beef stroganoff recipe for longer, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you always have a hearty beef stroganoff ready to go. You might also enjoy these easy ground beef recipes.
When you’re ready to reheat your creamy beef stroganoff, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Gently reheat the sauce on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of beef broth or milk to reach your desired consistency. Avoid boiling the sauce, especially after adding sour cream, to maintain its creamy texture. If reheating noodles, cook them fresh for the best texture, as they can become mushy when reheated. For other comforting dinner ideas, consider this birria tacos recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff
What is beef stroganoff?
Beef stroganoff is a classic Russian dish featuring sautéed pieces of beef served in a sauce with sour cream. My recipe offers a creamy beef stroganoff recipe that emphasizes tender beef and a rich, savory sauce, often served over egg noodles.
Why is stroganoff creamy?
The characteristic creaminess of stroganoff comes from the addition of sour cream. For the best results in this easy creamy stroganoff, it’s crucial to stir the sour cream into the sauce *after* you’ve removed it from the heat to prevent curdling and maintain a velvety texture.
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While sirloin or tenderloin are ideal for a tender beef stroganoff, you can absolutely use tougher cuts like chuck roast for a hearty beef stroganoff. If you do, you’ll need to increase the simmering time significantly, or consider a slow cooker method to ensure the beef becomes fork-tender. For a different slow cooker option, try this honey lime chicken crockpot recipe.
What are common side dishes for Russian cuisine beef stroganoff?
The most traditional and popular side for this authentic Russian stroganoff is wide egg noodles. However, it’s also delicious served over rice, mashed potatoes, or even a simple side of crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce.
Variations of Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff You Can Try
While this classic beef stroganoff recipe is fantastic as is, I love experimenting! Here are a few ways to switch up your homemade beef stroganoff:
- Creamy Mushroom Stroganoff: For a vegetarian delight or simply to amp up the earthy flavors, double the mushrooms and omit the beef. This makes for a truly delicious creamy mushroom stroganoff that’s surprisingly hearty.
- Slow Cooker Stroganoff: For an even simpler prep, try this in your slow cooker. Sear the beef and caramelize the onions first, then combine everything except the sour cream and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the sour cream at the end. It’s a great way to make a tender beef stroganoff with minimal effort.
- Lighter Stroganoff: If you’re looking for an easier-to-digest meal, try using leaner beef cuts and substituting half-and-half or even milk for some of the sour cream. It still delivers that authentic stroganoff sauce flavor with fewer calories.
- Spicy Stroganoff: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce base for a little kick. It’s a fun twist on the traditional Russian cuisine beef stroganoff.
Creamy Russian Style Stroganoff: Flavorful 1-Hour Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and flavorful Russian-style beef stroganoff served over tender egg noodles with caramelized onions. This recipe combines the rich umami of mushrooms, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the creaminess of sour cream for a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced into strips
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or sunflower oil
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth, preferably low sodium
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- Salted water for boiling noodles
- Extra butter for tossing the noodles (optional)
Instructions
- Slice beef into thin strips (about ¼ inch thick). Freeze for 15-20 minutes to firm up.
- Toss beef strips with flour, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add beef in batches and sear until browned on both sides (2-3 minutes per side). Remove beef to a plate.
- Lower heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook for about 10 minutes until caramelized.
- Add mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and brown (about 7 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste to the onion-mushroom mixture and cook for 2 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with beef broth, scraping up browned bits. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard (if using).
- Return beef and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes until beef is tender. For tougher cuts, cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and stir in sour cream to prevent curdling. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- While the sauce simmers, cook egg noodles according to package directions in salted boiling water. Drain and toss with extra butter if desired.
- Serve the creamy Russian-style stroganoff over the egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For easier slicing, freeze the beef for 15-20 minutes beforehand.
- Browning beef in batches prevents overcrowding and ensures a good sear.
- Cooking sour cream off the heat prevents curdling.
- For a slower-cooked, tender beef stroganoff, a crockpot method can be used for tougher cuts.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Russian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
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