Description
Beef Stroganoff with Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Beef:
500g beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into cubes
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
250g fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta
Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside
.
2. Cook the Beef:
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat
.
Sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside
.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
In the same skillet, sauté onion until softened
.
Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking for 3-4 minutes until fragrant
.
Stir in beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened
.
Return the beef to the skillet, and cook for an additional 2 minutes
.
4. Combine:
Toss the pasta with the sauce or serve the sauce over the pasta.
5. Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm
.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect Beef Stroganoff. First, ensure your beef is at room temperature and patted dry before seasoning. This ensures a proper sear. When boiling the pasta, salt the water generously. As the sauce simmers, stir frequently to prevent the cream from scalding. The final combination is key: for the best flavor, add the drained pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and toss for a minute, allowing the pasta to absorb the sauce before adding the seared beef back in.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich dish immediately while hot. A simple green salad with a sharp vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess beautifully. For vegetables, steamed green beans or roasted asparagus are excellent sides. Crusty bread is essential for soaking up every bit of sauce. To elevate the presentation, garnish with extra chopped parsley and a light sprinkle of paprika or black pepper.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook and drain your pasta. Sear seasoned beef cubes and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Create the sauce with broth, cream, mustard, and paprika, simmering until thick. Return the beef to the sauce to warm through. Toss everything with the pasta, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, but for best results, use quick-cooking, tender cuts. Sirloin or tenderloin are ideal. For a budget option, use flank steak sliced very thinly against the grain.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the sauce and beef mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. Cook fresh pasta when ready to serve.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Full-fat sour cream is a classic Stroganoff substitute. Add it at the very end, off the heat, to prevent curdling. For a lighter version, half-and-half or a cornstarch slurry can work, but the sauce will be less rich.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little beef broth or water, as the pasta will absorb the sauce.
Can I make this without alcohol?
Traditional Stroganoff often uses brandy or cognac. If your recipe calls for it and you want to omit it, simply deglaze the pan with extra beef broth. The Dijon mustard provides plenty of depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan when searing beef: This steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful brown crust. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Overcooking the beef: Since it returns to the sauce, sear it just until browned to keep it tender.
- Adding sour cream to boiling sauce: If using sour cream, take the skillet off the heat first to avoid curdling.
- Using underseasoned water for pasta: Salt the boiling water well, as this is your chance to season the pasta itself.
Conclusion
This Beef Stroganoff with Pasta is a comforting, restaurant-quality meal achievable in your own kitchen. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll create a dish with tender beef, a luxuriously creamy sauce, and perfect pasta. It’s a versatile recipe perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!