What is Beef Stroganoff? A Classic Reimagined

Beef Stroganoff, or ‘beef stroganov’ as it’s sometimes known, is a celebrated savory dish with rich Russian origins. Traditionally, it consists of sautéed pieces of beef, often sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye, served in a luscious, brown sauce. This distinctive sauce is typically crafted from a blend of mustard, beef broth, and sour cream, creating a unique tangy and creamy profile that has captivated palates worldwide for centuries.

While classic beef stroganoff recipes often call for thinly sliced beef, culinary innovation has led to many delicious variations. Some modern interpretations might feature lean ground beef for a more casual, family-friendly meal, or even ground chicken for a lighter alternative. Regardless of the beef cut or protein choice, the essence of stroganoff lies in its deeply flavorful and comforting sauce.

This hearty dish is most commonly served over a bed of pasta or rice, allowing the grains to soak up every drop of the delectable sauce. However, its robust flavor means it can also be enjoyed on its own, perhaps with a simple side salad, making it a versatile addition to your dinner rotation.

Is Traditional Beef Stroganoff Gluten-Free?

Unfortunately, for those managing celiac disease or gluten intolerance, traditional beef stroganoff often presents a challenge. The rich, creamy sauce is typically thickened with regular wheat flour, which contains gluten. This means that unless a restaurant or recipe explicitly states otherwise, most conventional beef stroganoff dishes are not safe for a gluten-free diet.

The good news is that creating a gluten-free beef stroganoff is simpler than you might think, and it doesn’t sacrifice any of the beloved flavor or texture. Our recipe specifically addresses this by using gluten-free alternatives for thickening, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this classic comfort food without worry or compromise. We’ll show you how to achieve that perfect, velvety sauce using readily available gluten-free ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Stroganoff Recipe:

• Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You won’t need to hunt for obscure items! All the basic ingredients required for this delicious gluten-free and dairy-free beef stroganoff recipe are easily found at your local grocery store. We prioritize ease of access without sacrificing flavor.
• Incredibly Easy to Make: Don’t let the gourmet reputation fool you – preparing this gluten-free stroganoff is surprisingly uncomplicated. The process involves a few straightforward steps: quickly cooking your beef strips, preparing the rich stroganoff sauce in the same pan, and then combining them for a symphony of flavors. It’s perfect for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests.
• Completely Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free: This is truly the best part! Our beef stroganoff recipe is 100% gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a fantastic option for those with Celiac disease, gluten sensitivities, or lactose intolerance. You can indulge in this creamy, savory dish without any dietary concerns or digestive discomfort. We ensure all the classic flavors are present, just without the allergens.
• Rich, Authentic Flavor: Despite being free of gluten and dairy, this recipe delivers all the robust, tangy, and deeply savory flavors you expect from a classic beef stroganoff. The combination of perfectly seared beef, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety sauce makes for a truly satisfying culinary experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer it over traditional pasta, fluffy rice, or even low-carb alternatives, this stroganoff adapts beautifully to various accompaniments, making it a flexible meal for any preference.

Essential Ingredients for Your Gluten-Free Beef Stroganoff:

Creating this incredible gluten-free beef stroganoff starts with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a visual overview of what you’ll need to gather to prepare this comforting meal. Each component plays a vital role in building the rich flavors and creamy texture of our dairy-free stroganoff.

(For precise measurements and detailed instructions, please make sure to scroll down to the comprehensive printable recipe card located at the bottom of this post.)

Recipe Notes & Smart Substitutions for Success:

• Beef Steaks: The cut of beef truly makes a difference in stroganoff. While various cuts can work, for the most tender and flavorful results in this gluten-free stroganoff recipe, I highly recommend using tender, well-marbled cuts with a bit of fat. These will be cut into thin slices and cooked quickly, so tenderness is key. Excellent choices include boneless rib eye, beef tenderloin steak, or sirloin steak. For optimal texture and flavor, try to avoid tougher cuts such as rump steak or chuck roast, which typically require longer, slower cooking methods.
• Oil for Frying: I personally prefer using sunflower oil for its neutral flavor and high smoke point, which is great for searing. However, you can easily substitute it with other healthy oils like extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, or any other vegetable oil you typically use and prefer for cooking.
• Mushrooms: Mushrooms add a wonderful earthy depth to the stroganoff sauce. You have several excellent choices here: classic white button mushrooms, more flavorful cremini (baby portobello) mushrooms, or even a mix of fresh mushrooms if you want to experiment with different textures and tastes. Slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
• Onion: Yellow onions are my go-to for this recipe as they caramelize beautifully and add a sweet, aromatic base to the sauce. However, white onion or red onion can also be used if that’s what you have on hand or prefer. The key is to chop them finely so they meld seamlessly into the sauce.
• Flour (Gluten-Free Thickener): To ensure this recipe remains 100% gluten-free, I’ve used gluten-free all-purpose flour as the thickening agent. It works just like regular flour to create a smooth, rich sauce. Alternatively, you can achieve a similar thickening effect using corn starch, tapioca starch (also known as tapioca flour), or arrowroot flour. If you do not have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, feel free to use traditional wheat flour at a 1:1 ratio.
• Beef Broth: Beef broth is essential for both flavor and color in the stroganoff gravy. Homemade beef broth will offer the deepest flavor, but a good quality store-bought beef broth or beef stock works perfectly well and saves time. For those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, it’s crucial to use a certified gluten-free beef broth to avoid hidden gluten.
• Sour Cream (Dairy-Free Option): To keep this recipe completely dairy-free while maintaining that signature creamy tang, I use dairy-free sour cream. There are many excellent brands available today that offer a fantastic texture and flavor. Other great dairy-free alternatives include coconut cream or full-fat canned coconut milk; these will add a subtle coconut flavor but still provide richness. If dairy is not an issue for you, go ahead and use regular sour cream, cream cheese, plain Greek yogurt, or heavy cream for a classic taste and texture.
• Mustard: Dijon mustard provides a sharp, tangy kick that is characteristic of stroganoff. It brightens the sauce and adds complexity. If you don’t have Dijon, most other types of mustard you have on hand will work, but be mindful of their flavor profiles (e.g., spicy brown mustard will add more heat).
• Pasta (Gluten-Free Serving): I love serving this stroganoff with gluten-free fettuccine noodles, which are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. However, feel free to use any other shape of gluten-free pasta you prefer, such as tagliatelle, spaghetti, or even shorter pasta shapes. For a different twist, it’s also delicious served over rice or enjoyed on its own with toasted gluten-free bread for dipping.
• Nutritional Note: Please remember that the provided nutritional information for calories does not include any optional accompaniments like pasta or rice. Adjust accordingly based on your serving choices.

How to Make Perfect Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Beef Stroganoff (Step by Step):

Creating this delicious, creamy stroganoff is a breeze with our clear, step-by-step guide. Follow these simple instructions for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

1. Prepare and Cut Beef into Strips

To ensure maximum tenderness, start by pounding your beef steaks evenly on both sides with a meat mallet. This helps to break down the fibers. Once tenderized, cut the beef into thin, even strips, roughly 1/4 inch thick. Uniform strips ensure even cooking.

2. Sear the Beef Strips

Heat your chosen oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the beef strips in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Fry the beef for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beautifully browned on all sides and just cooked through. Overcooking here can make the beef tough. Transfer the cooked beef to a clean plate and set aside, reserving any drippings in the pan for the sauce.

3. Sauté Mushrooms and Onions

Using the same skillet with the flavorful beef drippings (add a touch more oil if needed), add your chopped fresh mushrooms and finely chopped onion. Sauté these aromatics for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently with a spatula, until the mushrooms are softened and have released their moisture, and the onions are translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for your sauce.

4. Incorporate Gluten-Free Flour

Reduce the heat to low. Sprinkle the gluten-free all-purpose flour evenly over the sautéed mushrooms and onions in the pan. Stir it in thoroughly, ensuring the flour coats everything. Continue to fry the mixture for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step, known as making a roux, cooks out the raw flour taste and helps to thicken the sauce later.

5. Deglaze and Build the Sauce with Broth

Carefully pour the beef broth into the skillet. Immediately begin mixing thoroughly with a whisk or spatula, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds immense flavor!) and breaking up all the lumps of flour. Continue stirring until the sauce begins to smooth out and thicken. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

6. Stir in Dairy-Free Sour Cream, Mustard, and Seasonings

With the sauce at a gentle simmer, add the dairy-free sour cream, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to the pan. Stir everything together until well combined and the sour cream has melted smoothly into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture. Let the creamy mushroom sauce simmer gently for another 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

7. Reintroduce Cooked Beef and Simmer

Return the previously fried beef strips to the pan with the creamy sauce. Mix everything gently to ensure the beef is fully coated. Continue to cook on low heat for an additional 5-7 minutes. Cover the pan with a lid to allow the flavors to deepen and the beef to finish cooking through without drying out. If the sauce seems too thick, or if you prefer a looser consistency, feel free to pour in a little more beef broth or water until it reaches your desired texture.

8. Garnish and Serve Immediately

Once the stroganoff is perfectly cooked and the sauce has reached your desired consistency, it’s time to serve! Dish it out hot over your choice of gluten-free fettuccine noodles, other pasta, rice, or even creamy mashed potatoes. For a final flourish and a burst of fresh flavor, generously garnish with fresh chopped parsley before digging in. Enjoy your homemade, comforting, and completely gluten-free and dairy-free beef stroganoff!

Dish by Dish Tips & Tricks for the Best Stroganoff:

• Choosing the Best Beef Cuts: For achieving truly tender results in this gluten-free stroganoff recipe, selecting the right beef cut is paramount. Look for tender, marbled cuts with some fat content, as these will remain juicy and flavorful when cut into slices and cooked quickly. Boneless rib eye, beef tenderloin, or beef sirloin are excellent choices. Steer clear of tougher cuts like rump steak or chuck roast, which are better suited for slow braising rather than quick pan-frying.
• For a More Economical Option: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative that still delivers on flavor, you can easily adapt this recipe to use ground beef. Simply brown 1 pound of lean ground beef, drain any excess fat, and then proceed with the recipe as directed, adding the ground beef back to the sauce at step 7. This creates a delicious “ground beef stroganoff” that’s just as comforting.
• Serve Over Your Favorite Pasta or Carb: While I personally love serving this GF beef stroganoff with gluten-free fettuccine, the possibilities are endless. You can also use other gluten-free noodles like tagliatelle, spaghetti, or any short pasta. For a lighter or low-carb option, consider serving it over fluffy white rice, brown rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice.
• Achieving a Thicker Sauce: If you prefer your stroganoff sauce to have a richer, thicker consistency, there’s an easy fix. Simply mix an additional teaspoon of gluten-free all-purpose flour, corn starch, or tapioca starch with a tablespoon of cold water to create a slurry. Stir this slurry into the simmering sauce and cook for another minute or two until it thickens to your liking.
• Swap Out the Protein: Not a fan of beef, or just looking for variety? This versatile recipe can be adapted with other proteins. Chicken, pork, or even lamb can be used instead of beef. Just remember that cooking times and the overall flavor profile of the dish will change accordingly, so adjust your cooking time until the protein is cooked through.
• Make it Vegetarian: For a delicious meatless version of this classic comfort food, you can omit the beef entirely. Increase the amount of mushrooms significantly, perhaps using 2-3 cups, to create a hearty mushroom stroganoff. You might also consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients and texture.

Common Questions About Gluten-Free Beef Stroganoff:

More Delicious Gluten-Free Beef Recipes to Try:

If you loved this gluten-free beef stroganoff, here are more fantastic beef dishes that are also gluten-free and dairy-free for you to explore:

• Hearty Beef Stew (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Salisbury Steak (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Easy Beef and Broccoli (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Sloppy Joes (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Comforting Shepherd’s Pie (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

What to Serve with Your Beef Stroganoff:

Looking for the perfect accompaniment to your creamy stroganoff? Here are some gluten-free and dairy-free bread options that would pair wonderfully:

• Irish Soda Bread (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• Irish Brown Bread (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
• No Knead Artisan Bread (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

Other Gluten-Free Main Dishes You’ll Enjoy:

Expand your gluten-free culinary repertoire with these other delicious main dishes:

P.S. If you try this incredible gluten-free and dairy-free beef stroganoff recipe, I’d absolutely love to hear from you! Please consider leaving a star rating below and/or sharing your experience in the comment section further down the page. Your feedback is always greatly appreciated and helps other home cooks. Don’t forget to check out my entire Recipe Index for all the delicious recipes on the blog. You can also follow me on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram! Sign up for my Email List to get fresh, inspiring recipes delivered straight to your inbox each week!

Print Recipe

Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Beef Stroganoff

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5 from 1 review

• Author: Felicia Lim
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This comforting gluten-free beef stroganoff is the perfect meal for cooler weather. Enjoy tender beef in a flavorful, creamy, and completely dairy-free sauce that will delight everyone. Serve over pasta or with crusty bread for a satisfying dinner!

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Ingredients

Units

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• 1 pound beef steak (preferably tender marbled cuts)
• 2 tablespoons oil, for frying
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup dairy-free sour cream
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnishing
• Gluten-free fettuccine noodles, for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cut Beef into Strips: Pound the beef steaks on both sides with a meat mallet, then cut into thin strips.
2. Fry Beef Strips: Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry beef strips for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer to a plate.
3. Sauté Mushrooms and Onions: Add mushrooms and chopped onion to the same skillet. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, stirring.
4. Add Gluten-Free Flour: Reduce heat to low. Add gluten-free all-purpose flour, stir, and fry for 2 minutes.
5. Add Broth and Mix: Pour broth into the skillet. Mix thoroughly to break up flour lumps. Bring to a boil.
6. Add Sour Cream, Mustard, Salt and Pepper: Add dairy-free sour cream, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir and simmer for 2 minutes.
7. Add Cooked Beef: Add the fried beef to the pan, mix, and cook on low heat for 5-7 minutes. Cover. Add more broth/water if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot over gluten-free fettuccine or pasta/rice. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

Beef Steaks: Use tender, marbled cuts like boneless rib eye, tenderloin, or sirloin for best results. Avoid tough cuts like rump or chuck roast.

Oil: Sunflower oil is preferred, but extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, or other vegetable oils work.

Mushrooms: White button or baby portobello mushrooms are great choices.

Onion: Yellow onions are recommended, but white or red onions can be used.

Flour: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour for GF. Corn starch, tapioca starch, or arrowroot flour are also options. Use regular wheat flour if not gluten-intolerant.

Beef Broth: Use homemade or store-bought. Ensure it’s certified gluten-free beef broth for GF diets.

Sour Cream: Use dairy-free sour cream. Coconut cream or full-fat canned coconut milk can also be used. Regular sour cream, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, or heavy cream are alternatives for non-dairy-free diets.

Mustard: Dijon mustard is ideal, but any mustard will work.

Pasta: Gluten-free fettuccine noodles are recommended, but any gluten-free pasta, rice, or toasted gluten-free bread can be used.

Note: Nutritional info excludes optional pasta/rice.

Storing/Freezing: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet. To freeze, place in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

• Prep Time: 5 mins
• Cook Time: 50 mins
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Western