Classic Beef Stroganoff

My first encounter with authentic Beef Stroganoff happened during a crisp autumn evening at my Mom’s table. As she served tender beef in rich, tangy sauce over buttery noodles, she shared how this dish journeyed from Russian nobility to American homes. The comforting aroma and that first bite of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and tangy sour cream showed me why this recipe had endured across continents and generations. Today, I’m sharing my version, which honors both its Russian origins and its evolution into a beloved comfort food.

traditional beef stroganoff over rice on a plate and in a bowl.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Why You Should Try This Recipe for Beef Stroganoff

This traditional Beef Stroganoff achieves the perfect balance between rich, savory flavors and creamy tanginess. The slow simmering method allows the beef to become incredibly tender while developing deep flavor. Unlike quick versions that sacrifice depth for convenience, this recipe honors the dish’s elegant heritage with a made-from-scratch sauce that transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special.

Traditional Beef Stroganoff Recipe – Ingredients You Will Need

These are the ingredients you will need to make this old-fashioned beef stroganoff recipe.

  • Sirloin steak – Provides tender, flavorful meat that holds up well to simmering
  • Canned mushrooms – Offers convenience while still delivering earthy flavor
  • Green onions – Adds mild onion flavor and color contrast
  • Butter – Creates richness and helps brown the meat beautifully
  • All-purpose flour – Thickens the sauce to a perfect consistency
  • Sour cream – Delivers the signature tangy creaminess essential to authentic stroganoff
  • Sauterne wine – Adds subtle complexity and acidity to balance the richness
  • Beef bouillon cube – Intensifies the savory beef flavor
  • Beef consommé – Provides a clear, concentrated beef stock base
  • Dijon mustard – Contributes a gentle tang and depth of flavor
  • Salt and pepper – Enhances all the flavors in the dish
traditional beef stroganoff ingredients.

What Is the Best Beef to Use for Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff?

The best beef for stroganoff should be:

  • Tender enough for quick cooking
  • Flavorful with some marbling
  • Cut across the grain into strips or bite-sized pieces

Recommended cuts:

  • Sirloin steak (traditional and ideal): we love using top sirloin
  • Flank steak (economical option)
  • Beef tenderloin (luxurious choice for special occasions)

Chef’s Note: Regardless of the cut you choose, slicing across the grain is crucial, as it shortens the muscle fibers, resulting in more tender meat.

How to Make Beef Stroganoff

This easy beef stroganoff involves very little prep. Here’s what to do:

  1. Cut the beef into bite-size pieces or 2-inch strips, brown in a Dutch oven, and set aside.
  2. Cook the onions and mix in the flour with the drippings. 
  3. Return the meat and onions and add the dissolved bouillon cube and consommé. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the brown bits on the bottom of the pan. Stir until smooth.
collage of making beef stroganoff.
  1. Add the mustard, cover, and simmer to cook very slowly for about 1 hour. 
  2. Add the mushrooms with their liquid, Sauterne, and sour cream. 
  3. Serve over rice or noodles.
collage of making beef stroganoff.
traditional beef stroganoff over rice on a plate and in a bowl.

Classic Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Tender beef and mushrooms in a rich, tangy sour cream sauce. This traditional stroganoff honors its elegant Russian origins while delivering pure comfort!
5 from 9 votes
Print Pin Rate Add to Collection
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Russian
Keyword: Beef Stroganoff
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 347kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 pounds sirloin cut into bite sized pieces
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup green onions chopped, only the white part
  • 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 Beef bouillon Cube, dissolved in one cup hot water
  • 1 can beef consomme
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 6 ounces mushrooms canned
  • 1/3 cup Sauterne Wine
  • 1/3 cup sour cream

Instructions

  • Remove all fat from the beef. Cut the beef into 2-inch strips across the grain of the meat. Salt and Pepper the strips. Heat the butter in a Dutch oven and brown the beef, turning frequently to brown evenly. Set the meat aside and cook the onions until they are transparent. Set the onions aside. 
  • Add the flour to the drippings and mix well. Return the meat and onions to the Dutch oven, and add beef bouillon cube, water and beef consomme. Stir the mixture until is smooth. Add mustard, cover and cook very slowly for 1 hour or until the meat is tender. Add the mushrooms do not drain off liquid, saute and sour cream. Serve over rice or noodles.

Nutrition

Calories: 347kcal | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 121mg | Sodium: 401mg | Potassium: 624mg | Fiber: 0g | Sugar: 0g | Vitamin A: 475IU | Vitamin C: 1.7mg | Calcium: 61mg | Iron: 2.8mg

What to Serve With Creamy Beef Stroganoff

In Russia, traditional beef stroganoff is often enjoyed with fried shoestring potatoes. It can also be served over rice or mashed potatoes.

Here in the US, pasta is the most popular accompaniment to classic beef stroganoff, particularly twisted egg noodles.

Try this easy beef stroganoff recipe over gold and red baby potatoes that have been lightly mashed and seasoned.

It’s also great served over baked potatoes.

If you want a side, choose something simple such as a green salad, green beans, or asparagus.

You can garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley or thyme.

Whatever way you choose to serve this recipe for beef stroganoff, some crusty bread to soak up the delicious creamy stroganoff sauce is a must!

traditional beef stroganoff over white rice on a white plate.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerator: To store leftover cooked stroganoff, spoon it into an airtight container and place it in the fridge for 3 to 5 days. To reheat, place the stroganoff in a skillet over medium heat until completely warmed through.

Freezer: Place in a plastic freezer bag or sealed container, making sure to get as much air out as possible. Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. Before reheating, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Make Ahead: You can easily prepare this traditional beef stroganoff recipe ahead of time for an even easier weeknight dinner.

overhead view of homemade traditional beef stroganoff over rice on a plate.

Favorite Beef Recipes

Check out my easy dinner recipes and the best recipes for beef on CopyKat!

About Stephanie Manley

Hi there! I’m Stephanie Manley, the creator behind CopyKat.com — and a passionate advocate for helping home cooks recreate restaurant-style meals at home.

Since 1995, I've been on a mission to help you enjoy your favorite restaurant flavors from the comfort of your kitchen. Whether you're craving a classic Olive Garden soup, a local diner favorite, or a long-lost menu item you still think about, you’ll find everything you need here.

How It All Started

My journey began in college when dining out was a treat, and my budget was tight. Instead of giving up my favorite meals, I started learning how to recreate them myself.
What began as a few handwritten recipes eventually grew into CopyKat.com, one of the internet’s longest-running and most trusted sources for copycat recipes.

Today, CopyKat has helped millions of home cooks save money, customize their meals, and rediscover their favorite flavors.

Beyond CopyKat: Vintage-Recipes.com and GameDayEats.com

My passion for food extends beyond restaurant recreations! I also founded two additional websites:

Vintage-Recipes.com: A nostalgic journey through the classic recipes many of us grew up loving.

GameDayEats.com: Bold, crowd-pleasing recipes perfect for football parties, tailgates, and all your favorite game day traditions.

Wherever you’re cooking — from everyday dinners to special celebrations — I'm here to make it easier, tastier, and more fun.

Books and Media Features

I’m the author of two cookbooks, CopyKat.com Dining Out in the Home I and CopyKat.com Dining Out in the Home II, where I share even more beloved restaurant recipes made simple for the home cook.

My work has been featured across major media outlets, including MSN, Parade Magazine, The The Washington Times, Newsweek, and many more.
You can see more of my media appearances and professional work on my Muck Rack profile.

Professional Experience

In addition to running my websites, I am an experienced recipe developer, digital strategist, video creator, and podcast host.
I create content for a vibrant community across YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, helping millions of people cook smarter and eat better every day.

You can also learn more about my background in content strategy, community building, and online entrepreneurship on my LinkedIn profile.

Let's Stay Connected!

If you love saving money, mastering restaurant-style recipes, diving into vintage dishes, or hosting unforgettable game day feasts, you’re in the right place.

Follow along on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram, or subscribe to the CopyKat newsletter for fresh recipes, kitchen tips, and inspiration delivered straight to you.

Thanks so much for visiting — I can’t wait to cook with you!

— Stephanie

Stephanie is the author of CopyKat.com's Dining Out in the Home, and CopyKat.com's Dining Out in the Home 2.

REVEALED: Copycat Secrets for 2025

free email bonus

Yes, you CAN make it at home! I'll show you how.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

Reader Interactions

Comments

5 from 9 votes (7 ratings without comment)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




homemade Olive Garden Asiago Torgelloni Alfredo with chicken on a plate

Copycat Recipe Secrets for 2025

REVEALED:

Yes, you CAN make it at home! 
I'll show you how.

FREE EMAIL BONUS