Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe
If you’re craving a warm, comforting meal that’s rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying, this Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe is exactly what you need. This plant-based twist on a beloved classic brings together tender vegan beef strips, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sauce that’s bursting with flavor—all served over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s the kind of dish that hugs you from the inside out, proving that vegan cooking can be indulgent without any compromise. Whether you’re a longtime vegan or just curious about trying something new, this recipe is easy to follow and guaranteed to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, high-quality ingredients is the secret to this Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe’s incredible taste and texture. Each element plays a key role: the vegan beef strips provide that hearty chew, mushrooms add depth and umami, and the creamy sauce ties it all together beautifully.
- 12 ounces egg-free pasta such as fettuccine or rotini: Choose your favorite shape for the perfect sauce clinging experience.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and that subtle richness.
- 12 ounces vegan beef strips or seitan sliced: The star protein that delivers satisfying texture.
- 1 small yellow onion finely diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation.
- 8 ounces mushrooms sliced: Earthy mushrooms bring umami and moisture.
- 3 cloves garlic minced: For that irresistible garlicky warmth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky depth and subtle complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings all the flavors together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A little peppery bite.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari: Boosts savory flavor with a splash of saltiness.
- 1 cup vegetable broth: The liquid base that keeps the sauce luscious.
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk: Keeps the sauce creamy without dairy.
- 3/4 cup vegan sour cream or plain unsweetened vegan yogurt: For that signature creamy tang.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water: The magic thickener for a velvety sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds brightness and a subtle tang.
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional): A cheesy, nutty boost that’s purely vegan.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds color and a fresh herby note.
How to Make Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook your egg-free pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente. This ensures the pasta won’t get mushy later when it mixes with the sauce. Once cooked, drain and set aside, so it’s ready when the sauce is done.
Step 2: Brown the Vegan Beef Strips
Heat your olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, then add the vegan beef strips. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they develop a light golden-brown crust, which adds flavor and firmness. Transfer them out of the skillet to make room for the vegetables you’ll cook next.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Mushrooms
Into the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook them for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened, fragrant, and nicely browned. This step builds that deep, earthy base flavor the stroganoff is famous for.
Step 4: Add Spices and Garlic
Now stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook everything together for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and the spices bloom, releasing their rich aromas that start to fill your kitchen.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. This combines flavors while softening the mushrooms further. Next, stir in the plant-based milk, vegan sour cream, Dijon mustard, and nutritional yeast if you’re using it. Finally, add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, simmering for 3 to 4 minutes until it reaches that creamy, luscious consistency you dream about in a stroganoff sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Warm Through
Return the browned vegan beef strips and cooked pasta back into the skillet. Toss everything together over low heat to combine and warm through completely, ensuring every bite is coated in that velvety sauce. Once everything is hot and harmonious, it’s ready for serving!
How to Serve Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing with garnishes takes your Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe to the next level. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a vibrant pop of green and a burst of fresh flavor that beautifully cuts through the rich sauce. You can also add a little cracked black pepper or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides that balance its richness. Steamed green beans or a crisp mixed greens salad dressed lightly with vinegar or lemon juice offer a refreshing contrast. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus also contribute texture and a fresh bite that complements the creamy stroganoff perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving your Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe in individual shallow bowls makes it feel cozy and inviting, perfect for a family dinner. For a fun twist, pile it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes instead of pasta, or try it with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb version. Don’t forget a sprinkle of finely chopped chives or even a dusting of smoked paprika on top for a pretty presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe keeps really well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it an excellent option for meal prep or quick weekday dinners. Just be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to keep the sauce fresh and creamy.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, transfer the stroganoff into a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When thawed, the texture of the vegan beef strips might soften a bit, but the dish overall holds up wonderfully for quick reheats.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the stroganoff in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain its creamy texture. You may want to add a splash of plant-based milk or vegetable broth to loosen up the sauce if it thickened too much in the fridge or freezer. Avoid microwaving if you can, as stovetop reheating preserves texture best.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free pasta in this Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe?
Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well if you have dietary restrictions—just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions to get the right texture.
What’s the best substitute for vegan beef strips if I can’t find any?
If vegan beef strips or seitan aren’t available, you can use sliced mushrooms or jackfruit for a different but still delicious texture. Extra-firm tofu or tempeh are also tasty options to try.
Is the vegan sour cream necessary?
While the vegan sour cream adds that signature creamy tang, you can substitute plain unsweetened vegan yogurt or even cashew cream for a slightly different but still creamy finish.
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Yes, you can omit the olive oil and use a non-stick skillet or a little vegetable broth to sauté the ingredients, making it oil-free and lighter while still flavorful.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe is mild and comforting without heat, but you can easily add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe is a true celebration of plant-based comfort food—creamy, hearty, and bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for cozy nights in, impressing friends, or just treating yourself to a nourishing meal. Don’t wait to give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find your new favorite dinner!
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Vegan Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A comforting and creamy Vegan Beef Stroganoff featuring tender vegan beef strips, mushrooms, and a rich plant-based sour cream sauce served over egg-free pasta. This dairy-free, plant-based twist on the classic Stroganoff is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or any occasion that calls for cozy, flavorful food.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces egg-free pasta such as fettuccine or rotini
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces vegan beef strips or seitan, sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 3/4 cup vegan sour cream or plain unsweetened vegan yogurt
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (cornstarch slurry)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg-free pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Brown Vegan Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the vegan beef strips and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they are lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they are softened and lightly browned, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Simmer Broth and Soy Sauce: Pour in the vegetable broth and soy sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Create Sauce: Stir in the plant-based milk, vegan sour cream, Dijon mustard, and nutritional yeast if using. Then, add the cornstarch slurry slowly while stirring constantly. Continue to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens nicely.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the browned vegan beef strips and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything gently until the pasta and vegan beef are evenly coated with the creamy sauce and heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- For the creamiest texture, use cashew-based vegan sour cream.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed green beans or a fresh side salad.
- You can substitute vegan beef strips with thinly sliced seitan or mushrooms for a different texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: European-Inspired