Elk Stroganoff Recipe Easy and Delicious Dinner Idea

Originally posted on December 3, 2019 @ 8:09 am

Elk stroganoff is a delicious twist on the classic Russian dish, offering a rich and hearty meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners. Using lean elk meat adds a unique depth of flavor, with a tender texture that absorbs the creamy sauce beautifully.

Whether you’re a game meat enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the bounty of the wild. The combination of mushrooms, onions, and sour cream creates a luscious sauce that pairs wonderfully with egg noodles or mashed potatoes.

This elk stroganoff recipe is not only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests with a gourmet meal that feels both rustic and refined.

Dive into this recipe and savor the comforting flavors of elk stroganoff in your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This elk stroganoff recipe stands out for several reasons. First, elk meat is naturally lean and packed with protein, making it a healthier alternative to traditional beef stroganoff.

Its robust flavor shines through in this creamy, savory sauce, enhanced by earthy mushrooms and sweet onions.

Second, the recipe is straightforward and approachable, perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks. You’ll appreciate the balanced blend of sour cream and broth that creates a luscious sauce without being too heavy.

Finally, elk stroganoff is wonderfully versatile. Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or even cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.

It’s a meal that feels indulgent yet nourishing, ideal for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb elk steak or elk stew meat, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup beef broth or game stock
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • Egg noodles or mashed potatoes for serving

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander (for rinsing noodles, if using)
  • Large pot (for boiling noodles or preparing sides)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the elk meat: Pat the elk slices dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. Brown the elk: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the elk and sear quickly on both sides until browned but not fully cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the meat from the pan and set aside.
  3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil or butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Then add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to brown, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Deglaze the pan: Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan — this adds great flavor!
  5. Add mustard and simmer: Stir in the Dijon mustard and return the elk to the skillet. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes until the meat is cooked through and tender.
  6. Finish with sour cream: Remove the skillet from heat and gently stir in the sour cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Do not boil after adding sour cream to prevent curdling.
  7. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add additional salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve: Spoon the elk stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or your preferred side. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

“For the best texture, slice the elk meat thinly against the grain. This helps keep it tender and easy to eat.”

  • Use Greek yogurt: Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to cut calories and add a slight tang.
  • Try different mushrooms: Incorporate shiitake or portobello mushrooms for a deeper umami flavor.
  • Add herbs: Fresh thyme or rosemary can add a wonderful aroma and complexity to the sauce.
  • Make it gluten-free: Serve over gluten-free pasta or cauliflower rice to accommodate dietary needs.
  • For a thicker sauce: Mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with a little cold water and stir into the simmering sauce before adding sour cream.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per Serving
Calories 350 kcal
Protein 38 g
Fat 14 g
Carbohydrates 10 g
Fiber 2 g
Sodium 550 mg

Serving Suggestions

Elk stroganoff is traditionally served over wide egg noodles, which soak up the creamy sauce perfectly. For a healthier twist, try serving over brown rice or whole wheat pasta.

Mashed potatoes, either classic or with garlic, also make a comforting base.

For a vegetable side, steamed green beans, sautéed asparagus, or roasted Brussels sprouts complement the richness of the stroganoff nicely. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can add freshness to balance the meal.

For more hearty and comforting recipes, be sure to check out our Slow Cooker Roast Recipe With Vegetables Made Easy or enjoy a warming bowl from the Apple Barn Pigeon Forge TN Vegetable Soup Recipe Guide.

Conclusion

Elk stroganoff offers a delicious, protein-packed alternative to traditional beef stroganoff, perfect for those looking to explore game meat or simply enjoy a new flavor profile. Its creamy, savory sauce combined with tender elk meat and earthy mushrooms creates a comforting dish that’s ideal for chilly evenings or special occasions.

This recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and guaranteed to impress at the dinner table. Whether you’re serving it over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, elk stroganoff is a true delight in every bite.

For more recipe inspiration, explore our Dassana Veg Recipes: Easy and Delicious Meals to Try or get creative with quick bites from our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious. Enjoy cooking and happy eating!

📖 Recipe Card: Elk Stroganoff

Description: A rich and creamy elk stroganoff made with tender elk meat, mushrooms, and a savory sour cream sauce. Perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb elk steak, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add elk slices and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, sauté onions and mushrooms until soft.
  4. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Stir in flour and cook for another minute.
  6. Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly until sauce thickens.
  7. Add Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  8. Return elk to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat and stir in sour cream.
  10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve over egg noodles or rice.

Nutrition: Calories: 380 kcal | Protein: 40 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 12 g

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Marta K

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