Keto Beef Stroganoff

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If you love the rich, savory flavors of traditional beef stroganoff but are following a keto lifestyle, this recipe is a game changer. Our Keto Beef Stroganoff is a low-carb twist on a timeless comfort food, featuring tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy, tangy sauce made with sour cream and wholegrain mustard. Served over creamy mashed cauliflower or your favorite low-carb noodles, this dish offers all the classic taste without the carbs. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cooking time of 30 minutes, you can enjoy a satisfying and delicious meal any night of the week.

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The Keto Twist on a Classic

Beef stroganoff is known for its luscious sauce and tender strips of beef, usually served with egg noodles. In this keto-friendly version, we swap out carb-heavy noodles for cauliflower alternatives and use almond flour as a thickener instead of traditional flour. This not only reduces the carb content but also lends a subtle nutty flavor that complements the savory ingredients beautifully.

Our recipe keeps the integrity of the original dish, maintaining the comforting sour cream and mustard gravy that makes stroganoff so irresistible. By using quality cuts of beef fillet and fresh chestnut mushrooms, the dish achieves a luxurious taste and texture without compromising on the health benefits of a keto diet.

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Ingredients Overview

Main Ingredients:

• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon for searing the beef, adding a rich, heart-healthy fat.
• Beef Fillet Steak: 1 ½ lb (650 g), flattened and sliced into strips for quick cooking and tenderness.
• Butter: 3 tablespoons (40 g) to sauté onions and mushrooms, providing a creamy base.
• Large Onion: Sliced thinly to meld with the mushrooms and add sweetness.
• Chestnut Mushrooms: ½ lb (250 g), sliced, offering an earthy flavor that is key to a traditional stroganoff.
• Almond Flour: ¼ cup (30 g) used as a low-carb thickener to achieve a smooth sauce.
• Beef Stock: 2 cups (500 ml) for depth and moisture, forming the foundation of the sauce.
• Wholegrain Mustard: 1 tablespoon to infuse a slight tang and depth of flavor.
• Sour Cream: 1 cup (200 ml) for creaminess and that signature tang of stroganoff.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste, for balanced seasoning.

Serving Suggestions:

• Mashed Cauliflower: A creamy, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
• Cauliflower Rice or Low-Carb Noodles: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Searing the Beef

Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a cast iron skillet or deep pan over high heat. Using a heavy skillet is crucial because it retains heat well and ensures that the beef gets a nice, caramelized sear.

Prepare the Beef:
Take your 1 ½ lb of beef fillet steak, flatten it with a meat mallet for uniform thickness, and slice it into strips. Sprinkle the beef strips with a bit of salt and pepper to enhance the natural flavors before adding them to the hot oil.

Cook in Batches:
To avoid overcrowding the pan, add only half of the beef strips at a time. Let the beef cook for about 1 minute without turning it; this undisturbed cooking helps form a golden crust. Then, use kitchen tongs to turn the beef strips and cook until browned on all sides. Repeat the process with the remaining beef. Once each batch is browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. This step ensures that the beef remains tender and that you lock in all the savory juices.

2. Building the Flavor Base

Sautéing Onions and Mushrooms:
After searing the beef, reduce the heat slightly and add 3 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Allow the butter to melt completely, then add one large, thinly sliced onion. Sauté the onion for 1-2 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness.

Next, add the ½ lb of sliced chestnut mushrooms. Cook the mushrooms on medium-high heat until they turn golden brown. The mushrooms not only add an earthy flavor but also contribute a pleasing texture to the dish. This step is critical, as it builds the foundation of the stroganoff’s rich, layered flavor profile.

3. Creating the Creamy Sauce

Thickening with Almond Flour:
Once the onions and mushrooms have softened and browned, sprinkle ¼ cup of almond flour over the vegetables. Almond flour serves as an excellent low-carb thickener. Stir continuously to ensure that the flour dissolves completely and forms a smooth, lump-free mixture.

Incorporate Beef Stock:
Slowly add 2 cups of beef stock into the skillet, stirring as you pour. Allow the stock to mix thoroughly with the almond flour and vegetable mixture, creating a rich, velvety sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer so that it thickens slightly.

Adding Mustard and Sour Cream:
Lower the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of wholegrain mustard. The mustard adds a subtle tang that cuts through the richness of the sauce. Then, add 1 cup of sour cream to the skillet. Continue to stir until the sauce reaches the consistency of heavy cream. This creamy, tangy sauce is the heart of the stroganoff and provides the comforting flavor you expect from this classic dish.

4. Bringing It All Together

Combine the Beef and Sauce:
Once your sauce is thick and creamy, it’s time to reintroduce the beef. Add the browned beef strips back into the skillet, stirring gently to combine the meat with the sauce. Allow the beef to warm through and soak up some of the flavors, but be careful not to overcook it to maintain its tenderness.

Final Adjustments:
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. The final consistency should be rich and smooth, with the beef and vegetables perfectly coated in the tangy, creamy gravy.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve Over Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes

For a comforting, low-carb meal, serve your Keto Beef Stroganoff over mashed cauliflower. The creamy texture of mashed cauliflower complements the rich sauce, creating a satisfying alternative to traditional mashed potatoes.

Spoon Over Cauliflower Rice

Alternatively, try spooning the beef stroganoff over a bed of cauliflower rice. Cauliflower rice offers a light, grain-like texture that pairs well with the hearty beef and smooth sauce, making it a perfect low-carb substitute for pasta or rice.

Low-Carb Noodles

For those who prefer a pasta-like experience, serve the stroganoff with your favorite low-carb noodles. The noodles will soak up the delicious gravy and provide a satisfying, filling base for the dish.

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Nutritional Benefits and Keto Advantages

High in Protein, Low in Carbs

This Keto Beef Stroganoff is designed to fit perfectly into a ketogenic diet. With lean beef fillet as the star ingredient, it delivers a high-protein punch that’s essential for muscle maintenance and overall health. By substituting traditional flour with almond flour and replacing high-carb sides with cauliflower-based options, this recipe keeps the carbohydrate content low without compromising on flavor.

Rich in Healthy Fats

The use of olive oil and butter in the recipe provides a good source of healthy fats, which are crucial for a keto diet. These fats help maintain satiety and provide a steady source of energy throughout the day.

Packed with Vitamins and Minerals

Mushrooms and onions add not only flavor but also essential vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins and antioxidants. The beef stock, especially if made from high-quality ingredients, can offer additional nutrients like collagen and amino acids that support overall wellness.

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Tips for Perfecting Your Keto Beef Stroganoff

Choose the Right Cut of Beef

For the best results, use a tender cut like beef fillet steak. The lean protein will cook quickly and remain tender, making it ideal for a dish that cooks in just 20 minutes. Flattening the beef with a meat mallet before slicing helps ensure even cooking and enhances tenderness.

Don’t Overcook the Beef

Timing is crucial when searing the beef. Overcooking can lead to a tougher texture, so make sure you sear the meat quickly on high heat and remove it promptly once browned. Reintroducing the beef later to warm through in the sauce will ensure it stays juicy and tender.

Work in Batches

When searing the beef, avoid overcrowding the pan. Working in batches ensures that each piece of beef gets a good sear and develops a flavorful crust. This step is vital for locking in juices and creating a delicious base for your stroganoff.

Stir Continuously When Adding Almond Flour and Stock

To achieve a smooth, lump-free sauce, stir continuously when incorporating almond flour and beef stock. This constant stirring helps the almond flour dissolve completely and ensures that your sauce thickens evenly.

Adjust the Consistency

If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer after adding the sour cream. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash more beef stock to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.

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Creative Variations

Add a Splash of Wine

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of dry white wine after sautéing the mushrooms and before adding the beef stock. The wine will add a subtle acidity and complexity to the sauce that complements the mustard and sour cream beautifully.

Experiment with Herbs

While this recipe relies on the classic flavors of beef stroganoff, you can add your own twist by incorporating fresh herbs. Try adding a pinch of fresh thyme or rosemary when simmering the sauce for an extra layer of aroma and taste.

Make It Creamier

If you enjoy a creamier stroganoff, you can increase the amount of sour cream or even stir in a little cream cheese. This will boost the creaminess of the sauce while keeping it keto-friendly.

Serve with Extra Veggies

For an even healthier twist, add a handful of spinach or kale at the end of cooking. Stir them in just until wilted to add a burst of color and extra nutrients without altering the classic flavor profile.

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Final Thoughts

Keto Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food reimagined for a low-carb lifestyle. This recipe transforms a beloved classic into a nutritious, protein-packed meal that fits perfectly into your keto routine. With tender strips of beef, earthy mushrooms, and a velvety sauce enriched with sour cream and wholegrain mustard, every bite is a reminder that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for health.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself on a busy weeknight or entertaining guests with a gourmet low-carb meal, this keto version of beef stroganoff delivers on taste, texture, and nutritional value. The ease of preparation and the speed of cooking—just 30 minutes from start to finish—make it a go-to recipe when you need a satisfying, quick dinner that aligns with your dietary goals.

So, gather your ingredients, heat up your cast iron skillet, and get ready to enjoy a hearty bowl of Keto Beef Stroganoff. Serve it over creamy mashed cauliflower or your favorite low-carb noodles and savor the comforting flavors of this modern twist on a classic dish. Enjoy every spoonful of this indulgent yet healthy meal, and let it become a staple in your keto recipe repertoire.

Bon appétit and happy cooking!

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