Beef Stroganoff is a classic dish celebrated for its rich, creamy texture and savory beef and mushroom flavors. Traditionally served over buttered egg noodles or rice, it’s a hearty meal that fills both the stomach and the soul. But for those following a low-carb or ketogenic lifestyle, these traditional accompaniments can be a dietary dealbreaker.
Thankfully, there’s no need to sacrifice taste for health. This ultimate low-carb beef stroganoff recipe is the perfect solution. By substituting high-carb ingredients with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles, this dish retains all the creaminess and bold flavors of the original—without the carbs.
Ingredients Overview
Before we dive into the step-by-step instructions, let’s look at the ingredient list.
For the Stroganoff:
- 1 lb (450g) lean beef (sirloin, flank steak, or stew meat), thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Low-Carb Base:
- 4 cups cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Why This Recipe Works
- Low in Carbs, High in Flavor: With creamy textures and savory components, this meal doesn’t feel like a diet dish.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy evenings.
- Versatile: Easily customizable with different proteins, veggies, or dairy-free options.
- Family-Friendly: Loved by adults and kids alike.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in batches to avoid crowding the pan. Sear for 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Sauté the chopped onions and garlic for 2–3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Mushrooms Stir in the sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until they release moisture and begin to brown. Don’t rush this step—browned mushrooms intensify the flavor.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Lower the heat to medium. Add beef broth, heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly.
Step 5: Return the Beef Add the beef back into the pan. Stir to coat with the creamy sauce. Let simmer on low for another 3–5 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and tender.
Step 6: Prepare the Cauliflower Rice While the stroganoff simmers, sauté the cauliflower rice in a separate pan with a touch of olive oil or butter for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 7: Assemble and Serve Plate the cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Spoon the creamy beef stroganoff on top. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use the Right Beef: Cuts like sirloin or flank steak work best. They cook quickly and stay tender.
- Thicken Naturally: Simmer the sauce longer to reduce instead of using flour or cornstarch.
- Layer the Flavor: Sautéing each ingredient separately deepens the dish’s flavor profile.
Low-Carb Variations
- Ground Beef Version: Swap sliced beef with ground beef for a budget-friendly option.
- Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with extra mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in grated Parmesan or cream cheese for extra richness.
Serving Suggestions
- With a side of steamed or roasted broccoli
- Over sautéed spinach or kale
- With low-carb flatbread or almond flour biscuits
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Make Ahead: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge.
- Freeze: Freeze the stroganoff (without the cauliflower rice) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~400 |
| Protein | 32g |
| Carbohydrates | 7g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely. Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
2. Can I use frozen cauliflower rice?
Yes, just sauté a few minutes longer to evaporate the moisture.
3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cream?
For a lighter version, you can substitute with Greek yogurt, but add it after removing the skillet from the heat to prevent curdling.
4. What herbs go well with this dish?
Fresh thyme, rosemary, or dill add excellent depth.
5. Is this recipe suitable for keto?
Yes. With only ~7g of net carbs per serving, it’s a great keto-friendly choice.
Final Thoughts
This ultimate low-carb beef stroganoff recipe brings you all the comfort of the original dish—without the heavy carbs. It’s creamy, savory, satisfying, and highly customizable. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just aiming to eat healthier, this dish fits the bill perfectly.
