If you’ve ever wanted to try a dish that wraps rich, creamy comfort around tender strips of beef, you’re about to fall in love with Maria’s Russian Beef Stroganoff Recipe. This classic, soul-warming meal boasts a velvety sauce with just the right seasoning, creating layers of flavor that make every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether you’re cooking for family or treating yourself after a busy day, this recipe brings a special touch of Russian culinary tradition right to your kitchen table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
While the ingredient list might look modest, each element in Maria’s Russian Beef Stroganoff Recipe plays a vital role in delivering its signature taste and texture. From the tender sirloin to the luscious whipping cream, every component is essential for that perfect balance between savory and creamy.
- Sirloin steak, 2 lbs: Choose a good-quality cut for tender, juicy beef strips that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Mrs. Dash seasoning, 1 tsp: Adds a savory herb blend that enhances the natural beef flavor without overpowering it.
- Pepper, 1/8 tsp: Just a whisper of spice to awaken the dish gently.
- Salt, 1/2 tsp: Essential for seasoning and bringing out every flavor.
- Paprika, 1/8 tsp: Gives a subtle smoky depth and a lovely color boost.
- Olive oil, 2 Tbsp: Perfect for searing the beef and developing those rich caramelized edges.
- Soy sauce, 1 1/2 Tbsp: Adds umami and a nuanced savory note to the sauce.
- Water, 1 1/2 cups: Creates the base of the sauce, helping to meld the flavors together.
- Large garlic clove, finely grated or pressed: Infuses a fragrant aroma and gentle bite.
- Whipping cream, 1 1/2 cups: This is where the sauce becomes irresistibly creamy and luxurious.
- Unsalted butter, 2 Tbsp: Used to create a rich roux, thickening the sauce while adding buttery goodness.
- All-purpose flour, 1 1/2 Tbsp: Helps thicken the sauce without lumps, giving it that perfect texture.
How to Make Maria’s Russian Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
Start by slicing the sirloin steak into thin strips, aiming for uniform thickness to ensure they cook evenly. Season your beef generously with Mrs. Dash, salt, pepper, and paprika, letting the spices cling to every piece. This seasoning mix is the first step in layering flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan, and sear until browned on all sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per batch. This browning locks in the juices and builds a rich base for your sauce. Set the cooked beef aside once done.
Step 3: Build the Sauce Base
In the same skillet, add butter and melt over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to make a smooth roux. Cooking this mixture gently for about 2 minutes removes that raw flour taste and gives a silky thickening agent for the sauce.
Step 4: Add Flavors and Liquids
Gradually whisk in the water and soy sauce until the sauce smooths out. Add the grated garlic, stirring well. Allow this mixture to simmer gently so the flavors meld and the sauce starts to thicken—this is where the magic happens.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Combine
Lower the heat and stir in the whipping cream slowly. Return your seared beef strips to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the decadent sauce. Let it all simmer on low for about 10 minutes until the beef is tender and the sauce is rich and creamy, the perfect consistency for soaking up alongside your favorite sides.
How to Serve Maria’s Russian Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or dill adds a vibrant splash of color and a fresh twist that contrasts delightfully with the creamy sauce. A few thinly sliced mushrooms or a dollop of sour cream can also elevate the presentation and flavor profile.
Side Dishes
Traditionally, stroganoff is served over buttered egg noodles, which are perfect for scooping up all that savory sauce. Mashed potatoes or steamed rice are also lovely options if you want to mix things up, providing a neutral, comforting base that lets the stroganoff shine.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving Maria’s Russian Beef Stroganoff Recipe in small cast iron skillets or over toasted rye bread slices as an open-faced sandwich for a rustic touch. Garnish with pickled cucumbers or a light side salad to balance the richness with some acidity and crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stroganoff keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal even more satisfying.
Freezing
You can freeze the stroganoff for up to two months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe dish. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop to preserve the sauce’s creamy texture.
Reheating
Reheat the stroganoff over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water, broth, or cream to loosen it up and keep it luscious and smooth.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While sirloin works beautifully here due to its tenderness and flavor, you can use ribeye, tenderloin, or even boneless chuck—just be mindful of cooking times, as tougher cuts might need longer simmering.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for Maria’s Russian Beef Stroganoff Recipe?
Yes! Substituting the beef with portobello mushrooms or seitan provides a satisfying, meaty texture that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce without losing any of the comforting vibes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Definitely. Swap out the whipping cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based cream alternative and use a dairy-free butter substitute. This way, you keep the luxurious texture while accommodating dietary needs.
What can I use instead of Mrs. Dash seasoning?
If you don’t have Mrs. Dash, a simple blend of dried thyme, basil, oregano, and garlic powder makes a lovely substitute, bringing a fresh herbaceous note to the dish.
How long does it take to cook the beef until tender?
After searing, gently simmering the beef in the sauce for about 10 minutes is usually sufficient for sirloin. If you use a tougher cut, you might need to increase simmer time to around 30-40 minutes to achieve tenderness.
Final Thoughts
Maria’s Russian Beef Stroganoff Recipe is a heartfelt dish that invites you to slow down and savor every spoonful. It blends rich flavors with comforting textures in a way that feels like a home-cooked hug. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try—you might just find it’s your new go-to comfort meal, perfect for cozy evenings or sharing with loved ones.
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Maria’s Russian Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Russian
Description
Maria’s Russian Beef Stroganoff is a rich and creamy dish featuring tender sirloin steak cooked in a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and creamy whipping cream. The dish is seasoned with a blend of spices and finished with a subtle touch of paprika, making it a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Beef and Seasoning
- 2 lbs sirloin steak
- 1 tsp Mrs. Dash seasoning
- 1/8 tsp pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp paprika
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 1/2 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 large garlic clove (finely grated or pressed)
- 1 1/2 cups whipping cream
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Season the Steak: Begin by seasoning the sirloin steak evenly with Mrs. Dash seasoning, pepper, salt, and paprika. This step ensures the beef is well-flavored before cooking.
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat. Add the steak pieces and brown them on all sides to seal in the juices, about 4-5 minutes per side. This creates a flavorful crust.
- Add Aromatics and Liquids: Stir in the finely grated or pressed garlic, then add soy sauce and water to the pan. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and reduce the heat to low to allow the beef to cook slowly and become tender, approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: In a separate small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the all-purpose flour to create a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden. Gradually whisk in the whipping cream until the sauce is smooth and thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Once the beef is tender, remove the lid from the skillet and stir in the cream sauce. Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken further. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Serve the beef stroganoff hot over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes as desired, garnished with optional fresh herbs if preferred.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, allow the cream sauce to simmer longer before combining with the beef.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor impact.
- Sirloin steak should be cut into consistent pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Mrs. Dash seasoning is a salt-free blend; adjust salt levels according to your taste preference.
- This recipe can be served with egg noodles or steamed rice for a traditional experience.
