Beef stroganoff is a comforting, hearty dish loved for its creamy sauce, tender beef, and rich flavor. But if mushrooms aren’t your thing, don’t worry! This easy beef stroganoff without mushrooms gives you the same indulgent taste, minus the mushrooms. Perfect for those avoiding mushrooms for dietary reasons or simply not enjoying their texture, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings.
What is Beef Stroganoff Without Mushrooms?
Beef stroganoff is a traditional Russian dish that has found its way into kitchens worldwide. It typically consists of beef, onions, and a creamy sauce made with sour cream and sometimes mustard or wine. The addition of mushrooms is common in many variations, but for this recipe, we’re excluding them, focusing on the rich, tender beef and the velvety sauce.
This version of beef stroganoff is perfect for those who are allergic to mushrooms, dislike their texture, or simply prefer a simpler, cleaner flavor profile. The dish still maintains the signature comfort and richness, with every bite offering tender beef smothered in a luscious, creamy sauce.
Why We Love Beef Stroganoff Without Mushrooms!
There are countless reasons why this beef stroganoff without mushrooms has become a favorite for so many. Here’s why you’ll love it, too:
A Comforting Classic with a Twist: There’s something undeniably comforting about a creamy beef stroganoff. This version without mushrooms keeps the same indulgent essence of the dish but without the added texture of mushrooms, making it perfect for those who prefer a more straightforward approach. The beef is the star of the dish, complemented by a smooth and rich sauce that envelops it perfectly.
Quick and Easy: If you love a delicious homemade meal but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen, this recipe is ideal. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can have a hearty, flavorful meal ready in less than 30 minutes. The best part? It doesn’t sacrifice taste or texture despite being quick to prepare.
Versatile: Beef stroganoff is a versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Whether you enjoy it over classic egg noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, or a lighter option like rice or cauliflower rice, this recipe can be adapted to suit your preferences.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion, this dish works for any setting. Its creamy and savory profile makes it ideal for cold nights or when you just need something to satisfy your taste buds. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Before diving into the cooking process, let’s go over the essential ingredients for this easy beef stroganoff without mushrooms. These are simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, making this dish a breeze to prepare:
- Beef (sirloin or tenderloin, cut into strips) – 1 lb (450 g)
- Onions (diced) – 1 medium (150 g)
- Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves (6 g)
- Beef broth – 1 cup (240 ml)
- Sour cream – 1/2 cup (120 g)
- Heavy cream – 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Butter – 2 tbsp (for sautéing) (28 g)
- Flour – 2 tbsp (for thickening the sauce) (16 g)
- Paprika – 1 tsp (2 g)
- Salt & pepper – to taste
- Egg noodles – 3 cups (for serving) (180 g)
How to Make Beef Stroganoff Without Mushrooms
Making beef stroganoff without mushrooms is simple and quick. Follow these easy steps to create a dish that’s rich, comforting, and full of flavor.
Step 1: Sear the Beef
Start by preparing the beef. Use a tender cut like sirloin or tenderloin, and cut it into strips. Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the beef strips and sear them until browned on all sides. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan—if necessary, sear the beef in batches. Once the beef is browned, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Once melted, add the diced onions. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and golden brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
Now it’s time to make the creamy sauce that will bring the dish together. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to combine. This will help thicken the sauce as it simmers. Gradually add the beef broth while continuing to whisk, making sure there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
Step 4: Add the Cream
Once the sauce has thickened, lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in the sour cream and heavy cream, making sure to incorporate them fully into the sauce. Return the beef strips to the pan, stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Allow everything to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together and the beef finish cooking through.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, season your beef stroganoff with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and serve over a bed of egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for Beef stroganoff without mushrooms
To make your beef stroganoff even more delicious, consider these expert tips:
- Beef Selection: The cut of beef you choose will significantly impact the texture of your dish. For tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef, opt for sirloin or tenderloin. These cuts cook quickly and remain tender. If you’re on a budget, flank steak or round steak work well, but be sure to slice them thinly against the grain.
- Perfect Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick for your liking, simply add a little more beef broth or heavy cream to loosen it up. On the other hand, if the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Use Full-Fat Dairy: For the richest, creamiest sauce, use full-fat sour cream and heavy cream. Low-fat options can make the sauce less rich and creamy.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the beef stroganoff ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of beef broth or cream to bring the sauce back to its smooth consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your beef stroganoff turns out perfectly every time, be mindful of these common mistakes:
Overcooking the Beef: While you want to brown the beef for flavor, it’s essential not to overcook it. Searing the beef for too long can lead to tough, chewy meat. Remember, the beef will continue to cook in the sauce, so don’t worry about it being fully cooked when you remove it from the pan.
Not Thickening the Sauce Properly: If you don’t sprinkle the flour evenly, you might end up with lumps in your sauce. Make sure to whisk constantly while adding the flour and liquid to avoid this.
Skipping the Simmer: Don’t rush the simmering process. Allow the sauce to cook slowly to develop deep, rich flavors. This is where all the magic happens.
Variations to Try for Beef Stroganoff Without Mushrooms
While the classic beef stroganoff without mushrooms is delicious on its own, there are several ways you can personalize the dish to fit your preferences. Here are a few fun variations to try:
Add Vegetables: Even though this recipe skips the mushrooms, you can still add other vegetables for added flavor and texture. Bell peppers, peas, or spinach all make great additions to your beef stroganoff without mushrooms.
Swap the Sour Cream: If you’re after a tangier twist, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream. This option not only provides a zesty kick but also lightens up the dish without compromising its creamy richness.
Spice It Up: Want to add some heat? Stir in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a few dashes of hot sauce for a zesty and flavorful contrast that complements the creaminess of the beef stroganoff without mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions for Beef Stroganoff Without Mushrooms
Beef stroganoff without mushrooms is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options to serve alongside:
A Simple Salad: Balance the richness of beef stroganoff without mushrooms with a light, crisp salad. A simple green salad with vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the dish.
Egg Noodles: The classic pairing, egg noodles are perfect for soaking up the rich, creamy sauce of beef stroganoff without mushrooms.
Mashed Potatoes: For a truly indulgent meal, serve your beef stroganoff without mushrooms over creamy mashed potatoes. The sauce complements the potatoes beautifully.
Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Looking for a lighter option or a gluten-free base? Rice or cauliflower rice are great alternatives that still soak up the creamy goodness.
How to Store Beef Stroganoff Without Mushrooms
Proper storage is key to keeping your beef stroganoff fresh and delicious for future meals. Here’s how you can store this dish to maintain its taste and texture:
Refrigeration:
Cool Down: Before storing, allow your beef stroganoff to cool to room temperature. This prevents condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can affect the texture of the sauce.
Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the leftover beef stroganoff into an airtight container to help preserve its freshness. Make sure the container is sealed tightly to prevent air from getting in, which can cause the sauce to spoil faster.
Storage Time: Beef stroganoff can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to consume it within this time frame for the best flavor and safety.
FAQs
Can I use ground beef instead of steak?
Yes, ground beef can be used for a quicker, more affordable version of beef stroganoff. Simply brown the ground beef before continuing with the recipe.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make the dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and sour cream with coconut cream and dairy-free sour cream alternatives.
What can I use to thicken the sauce if I don’t have flour?
Cornstarch can be used as a thickening agent. Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water before adding it to the sauce to avoid lumps.
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Beef stroganoff without mushrooms Recipe
Ingredients
- Beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into strips – 1 lb (450 g)
- Onions diced – 1 medium (150 g)
- Garlic minced – 2 cloves (6 g)
- Beef broth – 1 cup 240 ml
- Sour cream – 1/2 cup 120 g
- Heavy cream – 1/2 cup 120 ml
- Butter – 2 tbsp for sautéing (28 g)
- Flour – 2 tbsp for thickening the sauce (16 g)
- Paprika – 1 tsp 2 g
- Salt & pepper – to taste
- Egg noodles – 3 cups for serving (180 g)
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted, add the beef strips and sear them until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; sear in batches if needed. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and melt. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Create the Sauce
- Sprinkle flour over the onions and garlic, stirring to combine. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Step 4: Add the Cream
- Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in sour cream and heavy cream, making sure everything is well combined. Add the beef strips back into the pan and stir to coat them in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well and serve the beef stroganoff over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and sour cream for an extra touch. Enjoy!