When it comes to comfort food, few dishes deliver quite like Authentic Classic Beef Stroganoff. With its tender slices of beef bathed in a rich, savory mushroom and sour cream sauce, this dish feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It’s hearty without being heavy, sophisticated yet incredibly easy to make.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or looking to impress dinner guests with a timeless favorite, this beef stroganoff is sure to win hearts. It brings together the earthy depth of mushrooms, the creamy tang of sour cream, and the bold flavor of seared beef in one irresistible skillet.

Why You’ll Love This Beef Stroganoff

This recipe is a celebration of tradition and flavor. You’ll love it because:

It comes together in just 30 minutes.
It uses simple ingredients but tastes like you spent hours on it.
It’s a one-pan wonder—hello, easy cleanup!
The flavor is deeply satisfying, making it a go-to for weeknights or special occasions.
It’s super customizable: use your favorite cut of beef or swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.

What Cut of Beef is Best for Stroganoff?

Sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin are excellent options for authentic beef stroganoff. The key is choosing a tender cut that will cook quickly and stay juicy. Avoid tougher cuts like chuck or round unless you’re planning to slow cook it for hours. Thinly slicing the beef against the grain is also crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Ingredients for the Authentic Classic Beef Stroganoff

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role in creating its signature flavor:

Beef Sirloin or Tenderloin: This cut ensures tender, flavorful strips of meat that cook quickly.
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms add earthy umami depth to the sauce.
Onion: Sautéed onions lend sweetness and aroma.
Garlic: A few cloves finely minced to layer in flavor.
Butter: For richness and to sauté the veggies.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the sauce just slightly.
Beef Broth: Deepens the flavor base and keeps the sauce savory.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and that signature tang.
Dijon Mustard: Enhances the sauce with a little zip.
Worcestershire Sauce: A splash of umami magic.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings.
Fresh Parsley: For a pop of freshness on top.

How To Make the Authentic Classic Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Sear the Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a bit of oil and quickly sear the beef strips until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat slightly. Melt butter in the same skillet and add the onions and mushrooms. Cook until softened and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic in the last minute.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle in the flour and stir to coat the mushrooms and onions. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and mustard. Let the sauce simmer and thicken.

Step 4: Stir in the Sour Cream

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream until the sauce becomes velvety and creamy. Return the beef to the pan and stir gently to coat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 5: Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.

How to Serve and Store Authentic Classic Beef Stroganoff

This dish serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. Serve it hot from the skillet over a bed of buttered egg noodles or fluffy mashed potatoes for peak coziness. You can also try it with steamed rice or even over roasted cauliflower for a low-carb option.

For storage, let the stroganoff cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring in a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Beef Stroganoff?

Classic Buttered Egg Noodles

The ultimate traditional pairing. Their wide ribbons are perfect for holding that luscious sauce.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy potatoes make a hearty base to soak up every bit of that stroganoff goodness.

Steamed Green Beans

Bright, crisp, and buttery—a great way to balance the richness of the dish.

Roasted Carrots

Their natural sweetness complements the savory sauce beautifully.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Use it to mop up any leftover sauce—you won’t want to leave a drop behind.

Simple Garden Salad

A light salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and crunch to your plate.

Sautéed Spinach or Kale

Earthy greens that add a healthy balance to your meal.

Red Wine

A glass of dry red like Cabernet or Merlot rounds out the dish perfectly.

Want More Dinner Ideas with Hearty Comfort?

If this Authentic Classic Beef Stroganoff hit the spot, you might enjoy these delicious comfort recipes too:

Try the Creamy Beef and Shells for a one-pan pasta night.
Cozy up with Easy Vegetable Beef Soup that’s loaded with wholesome flavor.
Dig into Beef Pasta in a Creamy Garlic Sauce for a bold twist on a classic.
Need something quick? The Ground Beef Stroganoff is weeknight-friendly and just as comforting.
Craving something cheesy? Cheesy Zucchini Casserole hits the spot!