If you’re a fan of creamy, comforting meals, mushroom stroganoff will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.
Traditionally, stroganoff recipes use sour cream to create that luscious texture. However, this version swaps it out for cream cheese, which gives the sauce a deeper, silkier flavor.
This recipe works best with egg noodles, which provide the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that creamy goodness. But if you prefer other starches like rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes, feel free to experiment.
Why Use Cream Cheese Instead of Sour Cream?
Using cream cheese instead of sour cream in a stroganoff recipe gives the dish an entirely different dimension. Cream cheese has a milder, richer flavor compared to sour cream’s slight tang, creating a smoother sauce.
The fat content in cream cheese makes the stroganoff more indulgent, while still maintaining a cohesive balance with the savory elements of the dish.
Also, cream cheese creates a denser texture that holds up well when heated, unlike sour cream, which sometimes separates when it gets too hot. This means your sauce remains consistently creamy from the first bite to the last.
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Ingredients You’ll Need
Before diving into the instructions, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients. These everyday ingredients can easily be found in any pantry or local grocery store, and they come together beautifully to create this rich dish:
- 2 tbsp butter: Butter adds depth and a rich, fatty base for sautéing the onions and garlic.
- 1 onion, chopped: Onions provide a subtle sweetness that balances the savory mushrooms.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic introduces an aromatic flavor that permeates the entire dish.
- 500g (1 lb) mushrooms: Use a mix of mushrooms like portobello, shiitake, and button for a complex, earthy flavor.
- 1/2 cup white wine or vegetable broth: White wine adds a touch of acidity and brightness, while vegetable broth keeps it savory if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: The mustard adds a subtle tang and complexity that elevates the sauce.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Paprika brings warmth and depth, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 200g (7 oz) cream cheese: The star ingredient for making this dish creamy and rich.
- 1/4 cup milk: This thins out the cream cheese slightly, creating the perfect sauce consistency.
- Salt, pepper, and parsley: These are used to season the dish to perfection and garnish it for a fresh finish.
- Egg noodles: The ideal base for serving this creamy sauce. Their soft texture complements the velvety stroganoff beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. As soon as the butter melts and begins to bubble, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onions turn translucent and soft.
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter quickly. The combination of butter, onions, and garlic will form the aromatic base that flavors the entire dish.
Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms
Once your aromatics are ready, it’s time to add the star ingredient: mushrooms. You can use a variety of mushrooms to add layers of flavor — portobello and shiitake mushrooms will give the dish a more robust, meaty texture, while button mushrooms are a classic choice.
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown. This step is crucial because browning the mushrooms deepens their flavor and adds a slight umami taste to the dish.
Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine or Vegetable Broth
Once the mushrooms are nicely browned and tender, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour in the white wine or vegetable broth, depending on your preference. The liquid helps lift all the caramelized bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, infusing the sauce with flavor.
Let the wine or broth simmer for about 3 minutes, reducing slightly and concentrating its flavor. This step will add a layer of acidity that balances the richness of the cream cheese.
Step 4: Add the Mustard and Smoked Paprika
Now that your liquid is reduced, stir in the Dijon mustard and smoked paprika. The mustard adds a slight sharpness that complements the earthy mushrooms, while the smoked paprika brings warmth and a hint of spice.
Stir the mixture well, ensuring that the mustard and paprika are evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 5: Make It Creamy with Cream Cheese and Milk
Reduce the heat to low, and add the cream cheese to the skillet. As it melts, stir continuously to ensure a smooth sauce. The cream cheese should fully incorporate with the liquid, creating a velvety texture.
Slowly pour in the milk to help thin out the sauce and make it the perfect consistency. Keep stirring until everything is creamy and well combined. If you prefer a thinner sauce, you can add a bit more milk until you reach the desired consistency.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, season it with salt and pepper to taste. The dish should already be flavorful thanks to the mustard, paprika, and mushrooms, so be sure to taste as you season to avoid over-salting.
Finally, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and a hint of freshness. Serve the creamy mushroom stroganoff over egg noodles, which will soak up the sauce perfectly.
If you want to change things up, this stroganoff pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread.
Bonus Tip: Customize to Your Liking
This mushroom stroganoff is easy to adapt based on your preferences. If you’re looking to add more protein, toss in some cooked lentils or even tofu. For a heartier meal, consider adding some roasted vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you prefer a spicier dish, a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce can bring some heat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mushroom stroganoff with cream cheese offers all the comfort and richness you crave from a stroganoff, but with an extra layer of indulgence. The cream cheese adds a smooth, velvety texture that coats each mushroom and noodle perfectly. Plus, the mushrooms bring an earthy, umami flavor that balances the creaminess.
Not only is this recipe incredibly satisfying, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare. With only a few simple ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this mushroom stroganoff will always hit the spot.
