Comfort Food Done Right: Classic Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is one of those classic dishes that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, creamy, and brimming with comforting flavors that make it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home.
This recipe, pulled straight from a tried-and-true family cookbook, is a great way to make the most of leftover roast beef, chicken, turkey, or even pork.
No matter what protein you use, the result is always a delicious, filling meal that warms you from the inside out.
What’s Great About Beef Stroganoff?
For starters, beef stroganoff is incredibly versatile. While this recipe calls for leftover roast beef, it’s just as delicious with chicken or turkey. It’s also budget-friendly, as it allows you to stretch your leftovers into a whole new meal that feeds a crowd. The creamy mushroom sauce, enriched with sour cream and savory beef bouillon, adds a depth of flavor that keeps everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
What really makes beef stroganoff stand out, though, is its balance of flavors. The savory richness of the mushroom sauce is perfectly complemented by the tangy sour cream and subtle spices like paprika and parsley. When poured over egg noodles or rice, it’s a dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Stroganoff
- Choose Your Protein Wisely: This recipe shines with leftover roast beef, but if you don’t have any on hand, cooked chicken, turkey, or even pork will work wonderfully. The key is to cut the meat into bite-sized pieces for even distribution in the sauce.
- Don’t Skip the Simmer: Allowing the sauce to simmer ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully. It also helps thicken the sauce slightly before adding the cornstarch mixture.
- Perfect Your Thickening Technique: Mixing cornstarch with water before adding it to the sauce ensures you won’t end up with lumps. Stir constantly as you pour it in to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Adjust for Your Desired Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less water when mixing the cornstarch. For a thinner sauce, simply add a bit more water during the simmering stage.
Serving Suggestions
Beef stroganoff is traditionally served over a bed of egg noodles, which soak up the creamy sauce beautifully. However, don’t be afraid to mix it up! Here are a few alternative serving ideas:
- Rice: A simple steamed white or brown rice base complements the rich sauce perfectly.
- Mashed Potatoes: For the ultimate comfort food experience, serve your stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes.
- Cauliflower Rice or Zoodles: If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, these work surprisingly well as a base for the stroganoff.
Pair your stroganoff with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. For drinks, a glass of red wine or even a sparkling water with lemon will complement the dish nicely.
Recipe Variations to Try
This classic stroganoff recipe is a great starting point, but it’s also incredibly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Mushroom Lovers: Double the amount of mushrooms or use fresh ones for an extra earthy flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a little kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the meat for sautéed mushrooms and onions or a plant-based protein like tofu or lentils.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in a handful of grated Parmesan or Gruyere cheese to the sauce just before serving.
Comfort Food Done Right: Classic Beef Stroganoff
6
servings15
minutes1
hourCreamy, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying, this classic beef stroganoff is the perfect way to turn leftovers into a hearty family favorite! With tender beef, a rich mushroom sauce, and a hint of spices, this dish pairs beautifully with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
10 oz canned mushroom pieces with juice
10 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 c sour cream
3 c water
1/4 c dry onion flakes (or 1 small onion, chopped)
1/4 c beef bouillon powder
2 tsp parsley flakes
1/4 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 Tbsp cornstarch
1/2 c water (for cornstarch mixture)
4 c cooked beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
Directions
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large pot, combine the following ingredients: mushroom pieces with their juice, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, 3 cups of water, onion flakes (or chopped onion), beef bouillon powder, parsley flakes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
- Cook the Sauce: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with 1/2 cup of water until smooth. Gradually stir this mixture into the simmering sauce. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Add the Beef: Stir in the cooked beef pieces, ensuring they are evenly coated in the sauce.
- Bake for Full Flavor: Transfer the stroganoff mixture into a large casserole dish or small roasting pan. Bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 45 minutes or until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Why This Recipe is a Keeper
This beef stroganoff recipe is as practical as it is delicious. It’s an excellent way to use up leftovers, ensuring nothing goes to waste in your kitchen. With its creamy sauce, tender meat, and warm, hearty flavors, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite—if it isn’t already.
While you are here, be sure to check out these other great comfort food recipes!
Family-Approved Chicken Broccoli Casserole
Chicken Pot Pie: A Comfort Food Classic for Your Leftovers
Hearty Hamburger Soup: A Family Recipe That Hits the Spot
Hamburger Hash with Chickpeas: A Versatile, Budget-Friendly Meal
The Best Basic Meatball Recipe: Great for Freezing and Meal Prep
Easy One-Pot Meatball Stroganoff
Sweet and Sour Meatballs: Rediscovering a Family Classic
Classic Oven Baked Porcupine Meatballs
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