There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of rich, creamy beef stroganoff—the kind of dish that makes you sigh with contentment after the first bite. I remember the first time I tried Gordon Ramsay’s version; it was a chilly evening, and I was craving something hearty yet elegant. His recipe, with its tender strips of beef, velvety sauce, and just the right hint of mustard and paprika, felt like a warm hug in a bowl. Since then, it’s become a staple in my kitchen, especially when I want to impress without overcomplicating things.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe is all about balance, so quality matters—especially when it comes to the beef and mushrooms.
- 1 lb (450g) beef fillet or sirloin – Thinly sliced for tenderness. Gordon insists on using a good cut, and I agree—it makes all the difference.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – For searing that beef to perfection.
- 1 large onion – Finely chopped. It’s the base of so much flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves – Minced. Because what’s a stroganoff without garlic?
- 10 oz (300g) mushrooms – Sliced. I love cremini for their earthy depth.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard – A little tang to cut through the richness.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika – For that subtle warmth.
- 1 cup (240ml) beef stock – Homemade if you have it, but store-bought works too.
- ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream – The key to that luscious sauce.
- 2 tbsp sour cream – For a touch of brightness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste.
- Fresh parsley – Chopped, for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now, let’s bring this stroganoff to life. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dish worthy of any dinner table.
- Prep the beef: Pat the beef slices dry with paper towels—this helps them sear beautifully. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Sear the beef: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the beef in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and sear for about 1 minute per side until browned but still pink inside. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the aromatics: In the same pan, add the remaining oil and reduce the heat to medium. Add the onion and cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Brown the mushrooms: Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their juices and turn golden brown, about 5–7 minutes. This step builds so much flavor—don’t rush it!
- Build the sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard and smoked paprika, then pour in the beef stock. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Finish with cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and sour cream. Return the beef (and any juices) to the pan and simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately over buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Tip: Don’t overcook the beef when you return it to the pan—just let it warm through gently to keep it tender.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Beef Stroganoff
Want to take your Beef Stroganoff to the next level? Here are some chef-approved tips to make it unforgettable:
- Slice against the grain: Cutting your beef thinly against the grain ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth bites every time.
- Don’t rush the mushrooms: Let them develop a beautiful golden color – this builds incredible depth of flavor.
- Deglaze like a pro: When adding the wine or broth, scrape up all those delicious browned bits from the pan.
- Cream control: Add the sour cream at the very end and don’t let it boil to prevent curdling.
Delicious Variations and Substitutions
This classic recipe is wonderfully adaptable:
- Protein swap: Try chicken, turkey, or even portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Dairy alternatives: Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can stand in for sour cream.
- Gluten-free: Use cornstarch instead of flour and serve over gluten-free noodles.
- Wine substitute: No wine? Use extra beef broth with a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
What to Serve with Beef Stroganoff
This rich, creamy dish pairs beautifully with:
- Buttered egg noodles (the classic choice!)
- Fluffy mashed potatoes
- Crusty bread for soaking up the sauce
- A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette
- Roasted green beans or asparagus
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) keep well:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months (though the sour cream may separate slightly upon thawing).
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare everything except adding the sour cream. When ready to serve, reheat and stir in the sour cream.
What cut of beef works best?
Tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin are ideal. For budget-friendly options, try flank steak sliced very thin.
Why is my sauce separating?
This happens if the sour cream gets too hot. Always add it at the end and keep the heat low.
Can I use canned mushrooms?
Fresh mushrooms are best for texture and flavor, but in a pinch, drained canned mushrooms will work.
A Comforting Classic to Cherish
There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Beef Stroganoff that warms both the belly and the soul. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this Gordon Ramsay-inspired version brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen. The rich, creamy sauce clinging to tender beef and earthy mushrooms is pure comfort in every bite. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your new go-to recipe for impressing guests or treating your family – it’s that good. Now go grab your skillet and get cooking!
PrintGordon Ramsay Beef Stroganoff
A rich and creamy beef stroganoff with tender strips of beef and a flavorful mushroom sauce.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 500g beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 300g mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 200ml beef stock
- 150ml sour cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Crust:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over high heat. Add the beef slices and sear until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the onions and mushrooms. Cook until softened and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic, Dijon mustard, and tomato paste. Stir well and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly.
- Return the beef to the pan and stir in the sour cream. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste.