Low Carb Beef Stroganoff

Name: Low Carb Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb beef sirloin, sliced thinly; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 4 oz cream cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats

I love whipping up a comforting dish that doesn’t compromise on flavor, and this Low Carb Beef Stroganoff does just that. Rich, creamy, and packed with tender beef, it’s become a staple in my household. With just a handful of ingredients, I can enjoy the savory goodness of stroganoff while keeping my carb intake low. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners, and it pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:18:28.044Z

When I set out to create a low carb version of classic beef stroganoff, I knew I had to maintain that luscious creaminess and deep flavor. I experimented with various ingredients and discovered that using sour cream and cream cheese created a luxurious sauce that pairs perfectly with the sautéed beef. The key is to let it simmer gently to meld the flavors together.

What surprised me was how versatile this dish is. I’ve tried adding mushrooms and even spinach, playing with textures to enhance the final dish. Each time, it reminded me why I love cooking: I can create something hearty and satisfying while staying aligned with my dietary goals.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that satisfies your cravings without the carbs
Savory tender beef that melts in your mouth
Quick and easy enough for a weeknight dinner

Perfecting the Beef

Choosing the right cut of beef is essential for a tender and flavorful stroganoff. I recommend using beef sirloin, as it strikes a balance between tenderness and flavor, cooking quickly without becoming tough. Ensure you slice the beef thinly against the grain; this helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Cooking the beef in batches rather than overcrowding the skillet allows for even browning and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Don’t skip seasoning your beef with salt and pepper as it cooks. This step builds a foundation of flavor, helping the beef to caramelize beautifully. Look for a nice golden color on the beef before removing it from the skillet; this not only indicates that it has cooked properly but also leaves behind flavorful bits that will contribute to the sauce.

Crafting the Sauce

The creaminess of the sauce relies heavily on the right balance of cream cheese and sour cream. When adding these ingredients, reduce the heat to low; this prevents curdling and allows for a smooth, velvety texture. Mixing in the cream cheese first helps create a cohesive sauce before the sour cream is stirred in, ensuring it blends seamlessly without lumps. If you’re dairy-free, consider using a plant-based cream cheese alternative for a similar texture.

While simmering, don’t rush through the deglaze process. Scraping up the browned bits from the skillet enhances the sauce's flavor. Allow the mixture to reduce slightly, concentrating the savory elements of the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce for a complex, satisfying depth. Keep an eye on the consistency; you want it thick enough to cling to your chosen noodles or rice.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious Low Carb Beef Stroganoff.

Ingredients

1 lb beef sirloin, sliced thinly
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
4 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the cooking steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Low Carb Beef Stroganoff.

Sauté the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes or until browned, then transfer to a plate and set aside.

Cook the Veggies

In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any flavorful bits. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Finish with Cream

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese and sour cream until fully combined. Return the beef to the skillet and heat through for an additional 3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Enjoy your delicious Low Carb Beef Stroganoff!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, feel free to include sautéed onions or swap beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

This Low Carb Beef Stroganoff pairs wonderfully with vegetable sides like sautéed green beans or a fresh side salad to contrast the richness of the dish. For a complete low-carb meal, serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles not only keeps the carb count down but also adds a lovely texture that complements the creamy sauce. I often top it with additional chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.

If you're looking to add some variety, consider incorporating spinach or kale into the sauce before serving. These greens wilt quickly and boost the nutritional value without impacting the overall flavor. Just toss them in during the last couple of minutes of cooking to retain their vibrant color and nutrients.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through to prevent the sauce from breaking. If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, add a splash of beef broth to loosen it up.

If you're looking to freeze the stroganoff, I recommend freezing the sauce separately from the meat; this helps maintain the texture when reheating. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results. The flexibility of this dish makes it a great go-to for busy nights, ensuring you always have a hearty meal ready to go.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it gently before serving.

→ What can I use as a low-carb substitute for noodles?

Zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice are excellent low-carb alternatives that pair well with this dish.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

You can use coconut cream and a dairy-free cream cheese alternative to keep it dairy-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.