Keto Beef Stroganoff is a flavorful and satisfying dish that has been adapted to fit within the guidelines of the ketogenic diet. This recipe offers a low-carb, high-fat option for those looking to enjoy a classic comfort food without compromising their dietary goals. By replacing traditional ingredients with keto-friendly alternatives, such as using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles, this dish maintains its rich flavors while staying in line with keto principles.
One of the key benefits of Keto Beef Stroganoff is its ability to provide a hearty and filling meal while still keeping net carb counts low. The combination of tender beef, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce offers a comforting dining experience that is both delicious and suitable for those following a ketogenic lifestyle. Additionally, the dish is versatile and can be customized with different cuts of beef or additional vegetables to suit personal tastes and preferences.
Beef Stroganoff is a classic dish with origins that can be traced back to 19th-century Russia. It is traditionally made with sautéed beef strips, onions, mushrooms, and a sour cream-based sauce, often served over noodles or rice. Over time, Beef Stroganoff has gained popularity worldwide and has been adapted in various ways to suit different culinary preferences.
Keto Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Ingredients
- Beef: Choose a tender cut such as sirloin or chuck roast, about 1.5 to 2 pounds, cut into bite-sized pieces.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons for sautéing and searing.
- Onion: 1 medium-sized onion, chopped.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
- Mushrooms: 8 ounces (about 225 grams), sliced.
- Beef Broth: 1 cup of low-sodium beef broth.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup of full-fat sour cream.
- Dijon Mustard: Optional, 1 tablespoon for added flavor.
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon of low-carb Worcestershire sauce.
- Xanthan Gum: Used as a thickener, about 1/2 teaspoon.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish.
- Cauliflower Rice: Optional, for serving as a low-carb alternative to traditional rice.
These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful, and keto-friendly Beef Stroganoff dish. Adjust the seasoning and optional ingredients according to your taste preferences and dietary requirements.
Instruction
Here are the detailed instructions for making Keto Beef Stroganoff in four steps, from preparation to serving:
Step 1: Preparation for making Keto Beef Stroganoff
- Begin by preparing the beef. Trim off any excess fat and cut the beef into bite-sized pieces. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is coated evenly.
- Next, prepare the vegetables. Chop one medium-sized onion into small pieces. Mince three cloves of garlic finely. Slice eight ounces of mushrooms into thin slices.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add two tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the seasoned beef to the skillet. Sear the beef pieces until they are browned on all sides, creating a nice caramelized crust. Be cautious not to cook the beef all the way through at this stage. Once seared, transfer the beef and any juices to the crockpot or slow cooker.
Step 2: Saute Vegetables
- In the same skillet used for searing the beef, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly caramelized.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the onions and continue to cook for another minute or until the garlic becomes fragrant.
- Now, add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook the mushrooms until they are tender and any moisture released has evaporated. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Slow Cooking Of Keto Beef Stroganoff
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crockpot or slow cooker, joining the seared beef. Make sure to scrape any flavorful bits from the skillet into the crockpot as well.
- Pour one cup of low-sodium beef broth into the crockpot. This liquid will help create a rich and savory sauce.
- Optionally, add one tablespoon of Dijon mustard and one tablespoon of low-carb Worcestershire sauce to the crockpot for extra flavor. Stir everything together gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender and juicy.
Step 4: Finish and Serve Keto Beef Stroganoff
- In a small bowl, combine one cup of full-fat sour cream with half a teaspoon of xanthan gum. Whisk the mixture until smooth. This combination will thicken the sauce beautifully.
- About 15-20 minutes before serving, stir the sour cream mixture into the beef and sauce in the crockpot. Continue cooking uncovered for the remaining time until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Taste the Keto Beef Stroganoff and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- To serve, spoon the hot Keto Beef Stroganoff over cauliflower rice or any low-carb substitute of your choice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve this comforting dish hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a touch of freshness. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying Keto Beef Stroganoff that’s been slow-cooked to perfection! Adjustments can always be made to suit your personal taste preferences.
Keto Beef Stroganoff is a delightful twist on the classic Russian dish, offering all the rich flavors and creamy goodness while adhering to a low-carb, ketogenic lifestyle. Succulent pieces of beef are seared to perfection, then slow-cooked in a savory broth along with tender onions, garlic, and earthy mushrooms. The magic unfolds as the beef becomes fork-tender, infused with the deep flavors of the simmering broth and aromatic vegetables.
What sets this Keto Beef Stroganoff apart is its velvety sauce, thickened with xanthan gum and enriched with full-fat sour cream. This combination creates a luscious and satisfying texture that coats each bite of beef and vegetables, delivering a burst of savory goodness in every mouthful. Served over cauliflower rice or alongside other low-carb alternatives, this dish is a testament to how indulgent flavors can seamlessly merge with a ketogenic way of eating, making it a go-to comfort meal for those embracing a carb-conscious lifestyle.
Keto Beef Stroganoff Nutrition Info
Here’s an approximate nutrition table for Keto Beef Stroganoff per serving (assuming 6 servings):
| Nutrient |
Amount Per Serving
|
| Calories | 400 |
| Total Fat | 28g |
| – Saturated Fat | 12g |
| Cholesterol | 120mg |
| Sodium | 500mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6g |
| – Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| – Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 32g |
Please note that these values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. Adjustments can be made accordingly for dietary needs and preferences.
Here’s a consolidated nutrition table for each ingredient used in Keto Beef Stroganoff:
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbs | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beef | 1.5 lbs (680g) | 1500 | 90g | 35g | 450mg | 450mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 165g |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp (30ml) | 240 | 28g | 4g | 0mg | 0mg | 0g | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| Onion | 1 medium (110g) | 45 | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 5mg | 11g | 2g | 6g | 1g |
| Garlic | 3 cloves (9g) | 15 | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 0mg | 3g | 0g | 0g | 1g |
| Mushrooms | 8 oz (227g) | 50 | 1g | 0g | 0mg | 5mg | 8g | 2g | 4g | 3g |
| Beef Broth | 1 cup (240ml) | 10 | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 450mg | 2g | 0g | 1g | 1g |
| Sour Cream | 1 cup (240g) | 480 | 48g | 30g | 160mg | 120mg | 8g | 0g | 4g | 4g |
| Dijon Mustard | 1 tbsp (15g) | 5 | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 120mg | 1g | 0g | 0g | 0g |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tbsp (15g) | 10 | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 200mg | 2g | 0g | 1g | 0g |
| Xanthan Gum | 1/2 tsp (2g) | 5 | 0g | 0g | 0mg | 0mg | 1g | 1g | 0g | 0g |
This table provides an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving size for each ingredient used in the Keto Beef Stroganoff recipe. Adjustments can be made based on specific brands or variations in ingredients.
Tips for Best Results
Here are some tips for achieving the best results when making Keto Beef Stroganoff:
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin or chuck roast for the best texture and flavor. Trim excess fat for a leaner dish.
- Sear the Beef: Searing the beef before slow cooking adds depth of flavor and helps retain moisture. Don’t skip this step for richer tasting meat.
- Low-Sodium Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt content of the dish. You can always adjust the seasoning later if needed.
- Full-Fat Ingredients: Use full-fat sour cream and other dairy products for a creamy and indulgent sauce. Low-fat alternatives may compromise the richness of the dish.
- Thicken the Sauce Properly: Xanthan gum is a great low-carb thickener for sauces. Mix it with sour cream before adding to the crockpot to prevent clumping.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary. Freshly ground pepper adds a nice kick.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. It’s both visually appealing and flavorful.
- Serve Hot: Keto Beef Stroganoff is best enjoyed hot. Serve it immediately over cauliflower rice or your preferred low-carb substitute for a complete meal.
- Storage and Reheating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
- Variations: Feel free to customize the recipe by adding extra veggies like bell peppers or spinach, or experimenting with different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences.
Following these tips will help you create a delicious and satisfying Keto Beef Stroganoff that’s sure to impress!
Keto Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Equipment
- Crockpot or slow cooker: This is the primary cooking vessel for the dish.
- Skillet or frying pan Used for searing the beef and sautéing vegetables before transferring them to the crockpot.
- Cutting board and knife For chopping onions, slicing mushrooms, and cutting the beef into bite-sized pieces.
- Wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing ingredients in the skillet and crockpot.
- Measuring cups and spoons For accurately measuring ingredients like olive oil, beef broth, sour cream, etc.
- Small bowl: To mix the sour cream with xanthan gum for thickening the sauce.
- Serving dishes: Plates or bowls for serving the finished Keto Beef Stroganoff.
- Optional Cauliflower rice or other low-carb substitutes for serving, and fresh parsley for garnishing.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of beef (sirloin or chuck roast), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup of beef broth (low-sodium)
- 1 cup of full-fat sour cream
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (low-carb)
- ½ teaspoon of xanthan gum (as a thickener)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cauliflower rice (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Preparation:
- Trim and season beef, chop onion, mince garlic, and slice mushrooms.
- Sear beef in a skillet.
Saute Vegetables:
- Saute onion until translucent, then add garlic and mushrooms until tender.
Slow Cooking:
- Transfer beef, vegetables, and broth to a crockpot.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours
Finish and Serve:
- Mix sour cream with xanthan gum, then stir into the crockpot.
- Cook for 15-20 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Adjust seasoning, serve hot over cauliflower rice, and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Beef Selection: Choose a tender cut of beef such as sirloin or chuck roast for best results. Trim excess fat before cooking.
- Low-Carb Ingredients: Use low-carb versions of ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and ensure the beef broth is low-sodium to align with keto guidelines.
- Thickening the Sauce: Xanthan gum is used as a thickener in this recipe. Be sure to mix it well with sour cream to avoid clumping.
- Slow Cooking Times: Cooking times may vary based on your crockpot or slow cooker. Check for beef tenderness before serving.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings according to your preference.
- Optional Additions: Feel free to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for more flavor and nutrients.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve Keto Beef Stroganoff over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or mashed cauliflower for a complete low-carb meal.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
- Garnishing: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness to the dish. It's optional but recommended for presentation.
- Enjoyment: This dish is rich, creamy, and full of flavor. Enjoy it as a comforting and satisfying keto-friendly meal!
Delicious Topping Ideas
Here are some delicious topping ideas to enhance the flavor and presentation of your Keto Beef Stroganoff:
- Shredded Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the finished dish for a nutty and savory kick.
- Chopped Green Onions: Add a pop of freshness and a mild onion flavor by sprinkling chopped green onions over the Stroganoff just before serving.
- Toasted Almond Slivers: Toasted almond slivers add a delightful crunch and nuttiness to the creamy sauce, elevating the texture of each bite.
- Crispy Bacon Crumbles: Crumbled crispy bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce and tender beef.
- Fresh Chopped Herbs: Besides parsley, consider using fresh dill, thyme, or chives for a burst of herbaceous freshness and aroma.
- Sautéed Spinach: Top the Stroganoff with a handful of lightly sautéed spinach for added nutrients and a vibrant green color.
- Sour Cream Swirl: Drizzle a small swirl of sour cream on top of each serving for an extra creamy and tangy touch.
- Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest over the Stroganoff just before serving to add a bright citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness.
- Crushed Pork Rinds: For a keto-friendly crunchy topping, crush some pork rinds and sprinkle them over the Stroganoff for a satisfying texture.
- Fried Shallots: Thinly slice shallots and fry them until crispy. Use them as a garnish for a flavorful and crispy topping.
Feel free to mix and match these topping ideas or get creative with your own combinations to personalize your Keto Beef Stroganoff and make it even more delicious!
FAQ
Is Beef Stroganoff Keto-friendly?
Yes, Beef Stroganoff can be made Keto-friendly with a few adjustments to the traditional recipe. The key lies in substituting high-carb ingredients like flour for thickening the sauce or serving the dish over noodles with low-carb alternatives. For example, xanthan gum is often used as a low-carb thickener, and cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles (zoodles) can replace traditional pasta. Additionally, using full-fat dairy products like sour cream or Greek yogurt ensures that the dish remains rich and creamy while staying within the confines of a ketogenic diet.
When preparing Keto Beef Stroganoff, it’s essential to pay attention to the overall carb content of the dish and choose ingredients that align with keto principles. By making these simple swaps and mindful choices, Beef Stroganoff can indeed be a delicious and satisfying option for those following a ketogenic lifestyle, providing all the comforting flavors without compromising on nutritional goals.
Can I freeze Keto Beef Stroganoff?
Yes, you can freeze Keto Beef Stroganoff for future consumption, making it a convenient meal prep option. To freeze it, allow the cooked Stroganoff to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It’s recommended to divide the Stroganoff into individual or family-sized portions for easier thawing and serving later on. Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the containers or bags to minimize freezer burn. Properly sealed and stored, Keto Beef Stroganoff can last in the freezer for up to 3 months without significant loss of quality.
When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Keto Beef Stroganoff, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or defrost it in the microwave using the defrost setting. Reheat the Stroganoff gently in a saucepan on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Adding a splash of beef broth or water while reheating can help maintain the sauce’s consistency. Avoid refreezing thawed Stroganoff to preserve its taste and texture.
What are the best side dishes to serve with Keto Beef Stroganoff?
When serving Keto Beef Stroganoff, it’s ideal to pair it with side dishes that complement its rich and savory flavors while staying within the low-carb framework of a ketogenic diet. One excellent option is cauliflower rice, which mimics the texture of traditional rice without the carb content. It absorbs the creamy sauce of the Stroganoff beautifully, adding a light and fluffy element to each bite. Another popular choice is zucchini noodles, also known as zoodles, which provide a refreshing and vegetable-packed alternative to pasta. These zoodles can be lightly sautéed or served raw for a crunchy contrast to the tender beef and creamy sauce.
For those looking to add more greens to their meal, a simple side salad with fresh leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a keto-friendly dressing can be a refreshing accompaniment to the richness of the Stroganoff. Steamed or roasted vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans also make excellent side dishes, offering a nutritious and colorful addition to the plate. These side dishes not only enhance the nutritional profile of the meal but also provide a variety of textures and flavors that complement the hearty and satisfying Keto Beef Stroganoff experience.
Can I make Keto Beef Stroganoff in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can absolutely make Keto Beef Stroganoff in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot for a quicker cooking time without sacrificing flavor. To adapt the recipe, follow the same initial steps of preparing the beef and sautéing the onions, garlic, and mushrooms in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Once these ingredients are cooked, add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard if using, and then seal the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for about 20-25 minutes. After the pressure cooking is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
When making Keto Beef Stroganoff in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, you’ll find that the beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful in a fraction of the time compared to slow cooking. The creamy sauce can be thickened by mixing the sour cream with xanthan gum separately and stirring it into the cooked beef and sauce in the Instant Pot. This method ensures a creamy and satisfying Keto Beef Stroganoff ready to be enjoyed with your favorite low-carb side dishes like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Is sour cream necessary, or can I use a different dairy substitute?
While sour cream is a traditional ingredient in Beef Stroganoff and adds a distinctive tangy flavor and creamy texture to the dish, it is not strictly necessary, especially if you’re looking for a dairy-free or lactose-free option. There are several alternatives you can use to substitute sour cream in Keto Beef Stroganoff. For a dairy-free option, you can use full-fat coconut cream or coconut milk. These alternatives will still provide richness and creaminess to the sauce without the dairy content.
Another dairy substitute is full-fat Greek yogurt, which offers a similar tanginess to sour cream but with a slightly different flavor profile. Ensure you choose a plain and unsweetened variety of Greek yogurt to keep the dish low in carbs and sugars. Whichever substitute you choose, adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences and the desired consistency of the sauce. With these alternatives, you can still enjoy a delicious and keto-friendly Beef Stroganoff without compromising on flavor or dietary needs.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!