Easy & Delicious Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms: A Family Favorite Recipe

Welcome, food enthusiasts! Are you a fan of classic comfort food? If so, you’re in for a treat! Beef Stroganoff has long been a beloved dish in countless households, including mine. From a young age, I’ve cherished the rich, creamy flavors of this iconic meal, and today, I’m thrilled to share my family’s time-tested recipe with you! This isn’t just any recipe; it’s an incredibly easy and absolutely delicious Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms that perfectly balances savory notes with a smooth, velvety sauce. Whether you prefer the robust taste of ground beef or a lighter option like ground turkey, this versatile dish, generously packed with chopped mushrooms and served over tender egg noodles, is destined to become a new favorite on your dinner table.

Beef Stroganoff is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary hug, a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. Originating from Russia, this dish has evolved over time, adapting to various regional tastes and available ingredients. Our family’s rendition focuses on simplicity without sacrificing an ounce of flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend dinner. The combination of succulent meat, earthy mushrooms, and a tangy sour cream sauce creates a symphony of flavors that truly delights the palate. Get ready to experience a dish that’s both nostalgic and incredibly fresh, proving that classic recipes can always be reinvented for modern convenience.

First Published: August 2017 | Updated: March 2021

This Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms recipe is truly a dinner winner, whether you choose to serve it over fluffy rice or, my personal favorite, tender egg noodles. This dish was a staple in my childhood home, gracing our dinner table at least once a week. It’s a testament to its enduring appeal and simple preparation. Now, you can easily whip up this hearty and satisfying meal in your own kitchen, for your family, or even prepare it as a thoughtful meal to share with friends or neighbors. Its comforting nature makes it perfect for any occasion, promising a delicious outcome every time. The convenience and adaptability of this recipe make it a standout choice for meal planning.

Ground Meat Options: Beef vs. Turkey for Your Stroganoff

One of the most frequently asked questions about this recipe is: “Can you make Beef Stroganoff with mushrooms using ground turkey?” The answer is a resounding yes! We often opt for ground turkey and fresh mushrooms as our base. Ground turkey is an excellent choice for a few key reasons. It’s a significantly leaner meat compared to traditional ground beef, offering a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor, especially when seasoned and cooked correctly within the rich stroganoff sauce. Choosing ground turkey can reduce the saturated fat content of your meal, making it a great option for those mindful of their diet while still craving a classic, comforting dish. Be sure to cook ground turkey thoroughly until no pink remains, but avoid overcooking to keep it tender.

However, if you’re a purist or simply prefer the traditional, richer flavor, this recipe works beautifully with ground beef as well. When choosing ground beef, consider a lean blend (like 80/20 or 85/15) to minimize excess grease. Browning ground beef creates a deeper, more robust flavor profile that many associate with classic stroganoff. Both ground beef and ground turkey absorb the savory flavors of the sauce and mushrooms wonderfully, giving you a delicious, hearty meal. The key is to brown your chosen meat thoroughly to develop a deep flavor before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.

Beyond the meat, our preference leans towards fresh mushrooms over canned. Fresh mushrooms, such as cremini or button mushrooms, bring a superior texture and a more vibrant, earthy flavor to the dish. When sautéed, they become incredibly soft and tender, releasing their natural umami notes which perfectly complement the creamy sauce. When using fresh mushrooms, remember to clean them gently with a damp cloth rather than washing, as they absorb water easily. Slice them uniformly for even cooking. While canned mushrooms can be used for convenience, fresh ones truly elevate the stroganoff experience. This beef stroganoff with sour cream is incredibly delicious, regardless of your meat and mushroom choices, offering a comforting and flavorful experience.

Achieving the Perfect Creamy Texture: How to Thicken Stroganoff

When it comes to crafting the perfect simple beef stroganoff, a luscious, thick sauce is absolutely essential. We love our sauce to be rich enough to beautifully coat every strand of noodle, creating a truly satisfying mouthful. Sometimes, despite following the recipe to the letter, the sauce might not achieve that ideal consistency. But don’t worry – we have a fantastic secret tip, passed down from my mom, that guarantees a perfectly thick sauce every time!

Our go-to method for achieving that desired richness is to prepare a classic roux. A roux is a simple mixture of fat (in this case, melted butter) and flour, cooked together to form a paste. This paste then acts as a thickening agent when added to liquids. To make your roux, simply melt the butter in a separate small bowl or saucepan, then gradually whisk in the flour until you have a smooth, lump-free paste. The standard ratio for a medium-thick sauce is usually equal parts butter and flour, as specified in our ingredients list. Ensure the roux cooks for about a minute or two to eliminate any raw flour taste, which can make your sauce taste pasty. Once your roux is ready, slowly incorporate it back into your simmering stroganoff sauce, whisking continuously. You’ll witness the magic as your sauce transforms, becoming wonderfully thick and velvety right before your eyes! This simple technique is a game-changer and your new kitchen hack for consistently perfect stroganoff.

Understanding how a roux works can elevate your cooking significantly. The starch molecules in the flour expand when heated in the presence of fat, trapping liquid and creating a thicker consistency. For best results, ensure your roux is cooked for about a minute or two to eliminate any raw flour taste before adding it to your sauce. This ensures a clean, savory flavor in your final dish. This method is far superior to simply adding flour directly to your sauce, which can often result in lumps. If your sauce still isn’t thick enough after adding the roux and simmering, you can make a small slurry of cornstarch and cold water, then slowly whisk it into the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired consistency. However, with a properly made roux, this usually isn’t necessary. So, say goodbye to watery stroganoff and hello to a delightfully thick and creamy masterpiece!

Serving Your Stroganoff: Best Bases and Side Dishes

Once your rich and creamy ground turkey and mushroom stroganoff (or beef version!) is ready, the next delightful decision is what to serve it over. As I mentioned, our absolute favorite way to enjoy this comforting dish is over a generous bed of perfectly cooked egg noodles. The wide, flat shape of egg noodles is ideal for catching and holding onto that incredible sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Their tender yet firm texture provides the perfect counterpoint to the savory, creamy sauce.

Egg noodles also offer some great benefits. They are relatively low in fat compared to some other pasta types, which helps to balance the richness of the stroganoff sauce, especially since we’re incorporating sour cream. This choice allows us to enjoy a satisfying meal while keeping it on a slightly lighter side overall. Moreover, egg noodles contribute a good amount of protein due to their egg content, adding to the nutritional value of your meal. Their tender texture and quick cooking time make them a convenient and classic choice for stroganoff, making them perfect for weeknight dinners.

But what if you’re not an egg noodle enthusiast, or you’re simply looking for variety? This versatile stroganoff pairs wonderfully with several other bases. Brown rice is an excellent, healthier alternative, providing a nutty flavor and added fiber, transforming your meal into a more wholesome option. White rice is also a popular choice for those who prefer a softer, neutral base that lets the stroganoff flavors shine. For a different twist, consider serving it over creamy mashed potatoes, which soak up the sauce beautifully and add an extra layer of comfort, or even a hearty polenta for an Italian-inspired fusion. Some people also enjoy stroganoff with crusty bread on the side, perfect for dipping into the extra sauce. No matter your preference, the goal is a base that complements the hearty sauce and meat. To complete your meal, consider serving a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like green beans, asparagus, or broccoli on the side for a fresh, balanced dinner. These sides add essential nutrients and a refreshing contrast to the rich main course.

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Essential Ingredients for Homemade Stroganoff

Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step towards creating this delightful Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms. This recipe calls for readily available items that combine to form an incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need, making sure you have everything on hand for a smooth cooking experience:

• 1/2 white onion, finely chopped (provides a sweet aromatic base when sautéed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for that essential savory kick that deepens the flavor profile)
• 1 pound Ground Beef (for a classic, rich flavor) or Ground Lean Turkey (for a lighter, healthier option)
• Salt and Pepper, to taste (the fundamental seasonings to enhance all other flavors)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (adds depth and umami, a key stroganoff flavor that’s both tangy and savory)
• 1 pound sliced mushrooms (fresh cremini or button mushrooms are recommended for best texture and flavor; they release a wonderful earthiness)
• 2 cups beef broth (forms the rich liquid base for our creamy sauce, adding savory notes)
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg (a hint of warmth and subtle spice that complements the creaminess beautifully)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (adds an aromatic, herbaceous note that brightens the dish)
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne (optional spice, for a subtle touch of heat that can be adjusted to your preference)
• Dash of black pepper (enhances the overall spice profile and adds a gentle bite)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (essential for creating our thickening roux, providing richness)
• 2 tablespoons flour (the other key component for the roux, ensuring a smooth, thick sauce)
• 1 1/2 cups sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, slightly lighter alternative – this is where the classic stroganoff creaminess and signature tang come from!)
• 1 package of egg noodles (our favorite base for soaking up all that delicious sauce, offering a tender texture)

Simple Steps to Make Your Homemade Stroganoff

Creating this delicious Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms is straightforward and rewarding. Follow these easy steps to bring this comforting family favorite to your dinner table, ensuring a perfect, creamy result every time:

1. Brown the Meat: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, add your chosen ground meat (turkey or beef) along with a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until the meat is thoroughly browned and cooked through. If using ground beef, drain any excess fat from the pot to prevent a greasy sauce. This step is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors.
2. Sauté Aromatics and Mushrooms: Next, add the finely chopped white onions and sliced mushrooms to the pot with the browned meat. Sauté for several minutes (about 5-7 minutes) until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have softened significantly, releasing their moisture and beginning to caramelize. Stir in the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, then add the Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, nutmeg, dried basil, and cayenne (if using) and a dash of black pepper. Stir well to combine all the wonderful flavors.
3. Prepare and Add the Roux: In a separate small bowl or directly in a very small saucepan, melt the butter. Gradually whisk in the flour until a smooth paste, or roux, forms. Cook this roux for 1-2 minutes, stirring, to eliminate any raw flour taste. This step is crucial for thickening your sauce without lumps. Add this roux to the simmering meat and mushroom mixture in the pot, whisking constantly until fully incorporated.
4. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the stroganoff mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Allow it to gently simmer for 15-20 minutes. This simmering time is essential, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the sauce to thicken to its desired luscious consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Stir in Sour Cream: Just before serving, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until thoroughly combined and smooth. It’s important not to boil the sauce after adding sour cream, as high heat can cause it to curdle. Gently warm it through for just one more minute off the direct heat.
6. Prepare Egg Noodles: While your stroganoff simmers, prepare the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Cook until they are al dente (firm to the bite), then drain thoroughly. You want them perfectly cooked to complement the creamy sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your rich and creamy Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms generously over the hot, cooked egg noodles. For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal that’s sure to be a family favorite!

Looking for a quicker cooking method? Want to make this a pressure cooker beef stroganoff? Follow my easy Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff recipe here for an even faster dinner solution!

This Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms recipe truly stands out as a comforting, flavorful, and incredibly versatile dish perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the wonders of stroganoff, our family’s recipe offers a delightful culinary experience that’s both simple to prepare and satisfying to savor. From choosing between ground beef or lean ground turkey to mastering the perfect creamy sauce with our roux secret, and selecting your favorite base from classic egg noodles to wholesome brown rice, every step is designed for success.

We hope this enhanced guide provides you with all the tips and inspiration you need to create an unforgettable meal. Experiment with different spices or even add a splash of white wine to the sauce for an extra layer of complexity. Don’t be afraid to make it your own! Enjoy the process of cooking, and more importantly, enjoy sharing this delicious creation with your loved ones. Happy cooking!