When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warmth and richness of Beef Stroganoff Soup. Combining the tender, savory flavors of traditional beef stroganoff with the heartiness of a soup, this dish is perfect for colder days or any cozy family meal. With chunks of beef, flavorful mushrooms, and tender egg noodles, all simmered in a creamy broth, this soup delivers a satisfying meal that will leave you craving more.
Why Beef Stroganoff Soup is a Must-Try Dish
Beef Stroganoff Soup is an excellent fusion of two popular dishes: the robust flavors of beef stroganoff and the soothing warmth of a soup. What makes it even better is the ease of preparation. It’s a one-pot wonder that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for simplicity. Ideal for a weeknight dinner, a holiday gathering, or even as a leftover lunch, this soup will quickly become a favorite.
The blend of beef, onions, and mushrooms sautéed in butter or oil provides a rich base, while the beef broth and Dijon mustard add depth. The addition of sour cream brings the classic creaminess that makes stroganoff so beloved.
Ingredients for Beef Stroganoff Soup
To create the perfect Beef Stroganoff Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) beef stew meat or sirloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil for sautéing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
These ingredients create a well-balanced dish full of flavor, texture, and nutrition. Let’s take a closer look at how each one contributes to the dish.
The Beef: A Key Player
The star of the soup is undoubtedly the beef. Opting for stew meat or sirloin ensures that the beef becomes tender during cooking, absorbing all the flavors from the broth and seasonings. Properly browning the beef is crucial, as this creates a depth of flavor that will infuse the entire dish. The juices released during this process form the base for a hearty broth.
Mushrooms: An Earthy Contrast
Mushrooms bring an earthy note to the soup. They complement the richness of the beef and sour cream, making the soup balanced and full of umami. Button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms work well in this dish, but you can experiment with other varieties like portobello for a deeper flavor.
Onions and Garlic: Aromatics to Elevate the Dish
No comfort dish is complete without onions and garlic. They provide the aromatic base that elevates the flavors in this soup. As they caramelize during cooking, they add a subtle sweetness and complexity that beautifully rounds out the dish.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Beef Stroganoff Soup
1. Sauté the Beef
Start by heating the butter or oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper, and brown it on all sides. This step seals in the juices and creates a flavorful crust. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened and translucent. The goal here is to sweat the onion to release its sweetness. Next, add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 5-7 minutes. The mushrooms should be browned and tender, absorbing the residual flavors from the beef.
3. Add Liquids and Seasonings
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat. This forms a roux, which will help thicken the soup. Slowly add the beef broth and water, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot; these are packed with flavor.
Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and paprika. These seasonings provide the signature taste of stroganoff: a perfect blend of savory, tangy, and slightly smoky. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup
Return the browned beef to the pot, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the broth. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Egg Noodles
Add the egg noodles directly to the soup and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes). The noodles will absorb some of the broth, making them flavorful and tender.
6. Finish with Sour Cream
Once the noodles are fully cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the sour cream, which will make the soup creamy and rich. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
7. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the Beef Stroganoff Soup into bowls, and if desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot, alongside crusty bread or a side salad to complete the meal.
Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff Soup
1. Choose the Right Beef
Selecting tender cuts like sirloin or well-marbled stew meat ensures that the beef becomes succulent after simmering. If you prefer a leaner cut, opt for top round, but be aware that it might need more simmering time to achieve the desired tenderness.
2. Use Full-Fat Sour Cream
For the best texture and flavor, always use full-fat sour cream. Low-fat versions can sometimes curdle when added to hot liquids, so it’s worth choosing the richer option for a creamier soup.
3. Don’t Rush the Simmering Process
Allowing the soup to simmer for 20-25 minutes ensures that the beef becomes tender and that the flavors have time to fully develop. Resist the temptation to rush this step, as it’s crucial for a well-rounded dish.
4. Experiment with Mushrooms
While button mushrooms are the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other types like shiitake or portobello for a more complex flavor profile. These varieties offer a meatier texture and deeper umami, which pairs beautifully with the rich broth.
5. Serve with Crusty Bread
To soak up every drop of the flavorful broth, serve the soup with a thick slice of crusty bread. It adds texture to the meal and enhances the overall experience.
Conclusion
Beef Stroganoff Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines the best elements of beef stroganoff and soup into one delightful meal. Its rich broth, tender beef, and creamy texture make it a go-to dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a cold evening or hosting guests for a cozy dinner, this soup is sure to impress.