Are you craving a rich, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further than this Beef Stroganoff recipe! This classic dish is a celebration of creamy goodness, tender beef, and earthy mushrooms, all coming together in a symphony of deliciousness. It's perfect for busy weeknights, impressing guests, or simply enjoying a comforting homemade meal. This recipe is easily adaptable, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry sherry (optional, can substitute with beef broth)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup McCormick Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp McCormick all-purpose seasoning
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp cold water
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Egg noodles or wide rice noodles, cooked according to package directions
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Season the beef slices generously with salt, pepper, and McCormick all-purpose seasoning. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor.
Sauté the Aromatics:
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Cook the Beef:
- Add the seasoned beef to the skillet and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes per side. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
Deglaze and Simmer:
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If using, pour in the sherry and let it simmer for a minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds depth of flavor. If omitting sherry, proceed directly to adding the beef broth.
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Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the beef simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, or until it is tender.
Create the Creamy Sauce:
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In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, McCormick Dijon mustard, cornstarch, and cold water until smooth.
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Stir the sour cream mixture into the simmering beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Do not boil.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Season the stroganoff with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately over cooked egg noodles or wide rice noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff:
- Thinly sliced beef is key: This ensures the beef cooks quickly and evenly without becoming tough.
- Don't overcook the beef: Overcooked beef will be dry and tough. Aim for a tender, but not falling-apart, consistency.
- Use good quality sour cream: The quality of your sour cream will significantly impact the flavor of the sauce.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less seasoning depending on your preference.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use different mushrooms: Shiitake or oyster mushrooms would also be delicious.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 20-30g
- Carbohydrates: 20-30g
This delicious Beef Stroganoff is a perfect example of how easy and satisfying homemade cooking can be. It's a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking, making it a true staple for your weekly meal planning. Enjoy!