How to whip up a weeknight beef stroganoff that’ll impress your family

Craving the rich, savory flavors of beef stroganoff but short on time? Fret not! This comprehensive guide will unveil the secrets to preparing a delectable beef stroganoff in a jiffy. With our easy-to-follow steps and time-saving tips, you’ll be savoring this classic dish in no time.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before embarking on this culinary adventure, ensure you have the following ingredients at your disposal:

• 1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 10.75-ounce can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Egg noodles or mashed potatoes for serving

Preparing the Beef

1. Season the Steak: Liberally season the sliced flank steak with salt and pepper. This step enhances the meat’s flavor and tenderizes it.

2. Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned steak and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned but still slightly pink in the center.

Creating the Sauce

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Remove the seared steak from the skillet and set it aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté until softened and fragrant.

2. Whisk in the Soup and Broth: Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and whisk until smooth.

3. Add Seasonings and Sour Cream: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce back to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Remove the skillet from the heat and whisk in the sour cream.

Combining the Beef and Sauce

1. Return the Beef: Return the seared beef slices to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine and heat through for 1-2 minutes, or until the beef is cooked to your desired doneness.

2. Serve Immediately: Ladle the beef stroganoff over egg noodles or mashed potatoes and serve immediately.

Tips for Speed

• Thinly Slice the Steak: Slicing the steak against the grain and thinly will reduce cooking time and ensure tenderness.

• Use Pre-Chopped Vegetables: Purchase pre-chopped onions and garlic to save time on prep.

• Heat the Skillet Before Adding Beef: A hot skillet will sear the steak quickly and evenly.

• Cook the Beef in Batches: If your skillet is not large enough to accommodate all the steak, cook in batches to prevent overcrowding and ensure even cooking.

• Use a Whisk for the Sauce: A whisk will help you quickly combine the sauce ingredients and prevent lumps.

• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Beef stroganoff is best when the beef is tender but still slightly pink in the center. Overcooking can make the meat tough.

Variations

• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy flavor.

• Use a Different Type of Meat: Substitute flank steak with sirloin, round steak, or even chicken for a different texture and flavor.

• Add a Touch of Heat: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

Wrapping Up

With these quick and easy steps, you can now indulge in the satisfying flavors of beef stroganoff without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe will guide you towards a delicious meal that will impress your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of mushroom soup?
A: Yes, you can use cream of celery or cream of onion soup if you prefer a different flavor.

Q: How can I make the sauce thicker?
A: You can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the sauce while it’s simmering.

Q: What other side dishes can I serve with beef stroganoff?
A: Roasted vegetables, a green salad, or crusty bread are all excellent accompaniments to beef stroganoff.