Healthy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

There's something about beef stroganoff that just feels like a warm hug on a plate. I've always loved this classic comfort food, but the traditional recipe can be pretty heavy with all that sour cream and butter.

That's why I created this healthy beef stroganoff version that keeps all the creamy, savory goodness while cutting back on calories and fat.

The first time I made this for Emily, she actually licked her plate clean! (Should I be encouraging that behavior? Probably not, but I was secretly proud!)

This lighter version uses a clever combination of Greek yogurt and just a touch of sour cream to create that signature tangy sauce we all love. If you enjoy hearty, comforting meals that won't weigh you down, you'll also love my Slow Cooker Round Steak and Gravy.

Why You Will Like This Healthy Beef Stroganoff Recipe

• It's got all the comforting flavors of traditional stroganoff with about half the fat
• Ready in just 30 minutes - perfect for busy weeknights
• The sauce is incredibly creamy and tangy without being heavy
• High in protein (48g per serving!) to keep you satisfied
• Versatile meal - works with noodles, potatoes, or veggie spirals
• Makes delicious leftovers that taste even better the next day

Ingredients You'll Need for the Best Healthy Beef Stroganoff

• 1.5 lbs lean sirloin steak (about 4 steaks)
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• Fresh cracked pepper
• Olive oil spray
• 2 cups shallots, sliced (about 4 small ones or 2 large ones)
• 16 oz white mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon light butter (I use Land 'o Lakes)
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoon sour cream
• ¼ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• Kosher salt and pepper to taste
• Parsley for garnish
• Optional: egg noodles or pasta for serving (also works with potatoes or veggie spirals)

Simple Instructions for Healthy Beef Stroganoff

1. Start off by slicing the beef into thin strips or bite-sized chunks.
2. Season the beef with the kosher salt, fresh cracked pepper, and garlic powder, and toss to coat evenly.
3. Preheat a frying pan over medium-high heat, and then spray with olive oil spray.
4. Sear the beef on both sides, for a total of 2-3 minutes. It will not cook through here; we are just looking for some nice brown color on the outside to lock in flavor.

1. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside on a plate to rest.
2. Slice the mushrooms and shallots. Add more olive oil spray to the same pan, and add the mushrooms and shallots.
3. Cook for 10 minutes, tossing frequently to prevent burning and sticking. Add more olive oil spray as needed. The mushrooms will release moisture and then start to brown - this creates amazing flavor!
4. After 10 minutes, add the Worcestershire and Dijon to the cooked mushrooms and shallots, and whisk to combine.
5. Add the butter and flour, and stir to coat, ensuring to break down the flour and incorporate it throughout the pan.
6. Pour in the beef broth gradually while stirring.
7. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer the sauce for about five minutes, or until the sauce thickens from the flour.
8. Stir in the sour cream and Greek yogurt. This is what makes our healthy beef stroganoff so creamy!
9. Return the cooked beef to the pan, along with any residual juices that collected in the dish as the beef rested. Cook for another 5 minutes for the flavors to combine and the beef to cook through a bit more.

1. Taste the sauce for seasoning; add more salt and pepper as desired.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color.

Storage & Reheating Your Healthy Beef Stroganoff

This healthy beef stroganoff keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

The flavors actually develop and get even better overnight! I sometimes make it specifically for meal prep because it tastes so good the next day.

For reheating, I recommend warming it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge.

If you're using the microwave, cover the dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through. This prevents the sauce from separating.

I don't recommend freezing this dish as dairy-based sauces can separate when thawed, but honestly, we never have leftovers that last that long anyway!

Tips for Perfect Healthy Beef Stroganoff Every Time

• Don't overcook the beef initially - It will continue cooking when you add it back to the sauce. Overcooked beef gets tough and chewy!
• Let the mushrooms really brown - This builds incredible flavor. Have you ever noticed how mushrooms release their moisture and then start to brown? That's what you want!
• Use Greek yogurt and sour cream at room temperature - Cold dairy is more likely to curdle when added to hot liquids. I take mine out of the fridge before I start cooking.
• Try different mushroom varieties - While white mushrooms work perfectly, baby bella or cremini mushrooms add even more "meaty" flavor. Has anyone else noticed how mushrooms have that wonderful umami quality?
• Slice the beef against the grain - This makes each bite more tender. I pop my beef in the freezer for about 15 minutes before slicing to make this easier.
• Add a splash of white wine - Not traditional, but a little splash (about ¼ cup) before adding the beef broth adds amazing depth of flavor to your healthy beef stroganoff!

Variations of Healthy Beef Stroganoff

• Ground Beef Version - Swap the sirloin for 1 lb of lean ground beef (93% lean) for an even more budget-friendly meal. Brown it first, drain any excess fat, then remove and follow the recipe as written.
• Extra Veggie Boost - Add diced bell peppers with the mushrooms, or stir in some spinach or peas right at the end for extra color and nutrition.
• Dairy-Free Option - Use unsweetened cashew cream or coconut cream instead of the yogurt and sour cream. It changes the flavor profile slightly but still creates a deliciously creamy sauce.
• Slow Cooker Method - Brown the meat, then add all ingredients except the yogurt and sour cream to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then stir in the dairy during the last 30 minutes.
• Spicy Twist - Add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat that cuts through the creamy richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipes You May Like

• Philly Cheesesteak Sliders - Another delicious beef recipe that's perfect for feeding a crowd!
• Spicy Meatloaf Recipe - If you enjoy hearty beef dishes with a kick of flavor.
• Slow Cooker Round Steak and Gravy - A hands-off beef recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts on Healthy Beef Stroganoff

This lightened-up beef stroganoff has become a regular in our dinner rotation, and for good reason! It delivers all the cozy comfort of the classic version but in a way that aligns better with a balanced lifestyle. The Greek yogurt trick is one I use in so many creamy recipes now - it's such a game-changer!

What I love most about this dish is how it proves you don't have to sacrifice flavor when making healthier versions of classic comfort foods. The depth of flavor from the properly browned mushrooms combined with that tangy, creamy sauce is just as satisfying as the full-fat version.

Next time you're craving something comforting but don't want to go overboard on calories, give this healthy beef stroganoff a try. I'd love to hear if you made any of your own variations or what you served it with!