Craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's ready in under an hour? Look no further! This creamy beef with mushroom recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a delicious dish that's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs looking for a quick and satisfying dinner option. Get ready to impress your family with this simple yet elegant homemade meal!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a perfect choice for your next quick dinner.
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Let's get cooking! This recipe is designed for straightforward preparation, perfect for even the busiest of schedules.
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Sear the Beef: Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender.
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Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer.
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Simmer the Beef: Return the seared beef to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
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Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This creamy beef with mushroom dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or egg noodles.
Cooking Tips for Perfection
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef stew meat.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the beef. Work in batches to ensure proper browning.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
- For a thicker sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes to the dish.
Variations: Spice Things Up!
- Spicy Beef: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Mushroom Medley: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake, oyster, or portobello mushrooms.
- Wine Infusion: Add 1/2 cup of red wine to the sauce for a deeper, more complex flavor.
- Creamy Tomato Beef: Incorporate a can of diced tomatoes for a tangy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Around 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: Around 10-15g
This creamy beef with mushroom recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. Enjoy!