Bison Stroganoff with Mushrooms

This bison stroganoff is a rich and comforting dinner that comes together quickly on busy nights. It offers a hearty twist on traditional stroganoff by using ground bison, which brings a deep meaty flavor without being heavy. Perfect for when you want something cozy and a bit different from the usual beef version.

I whipped this up after a last-minute craving for stroganoff and it has since become a family favorite that feels indulgent yet clean

Ingredients

• Ground bison: provides a lean and flavorful alternative to beef look for fresh ground bison with a bright red color
• Olive oil: aids in sautéing while adding a mild fruity note pick extra virgin for the best quality
• Onion: builds sweetness and depth select firm onions with tight skins
• Mushrooms: give earthiness and texture choose fresh mushrooms that are firm and free of wrinkles
• Garlic: adds a pungent brightness use fresh cloves for maximum aroma
• Broth: creates the base for the sauce opt for low sodium to control salt levels
• Flour: thickens the sauce gently use all purpose flour
• Heavy cream: brings richness to the stroganoff aim for heavy or whipping cream for best results
• Sour cream: adds tang and creaminess choose full fat for the best flavor balance
• Salt: enhances all the flavors use kosher or sea salt for even seasoning
• Freshly ground black pepper: adds warmth and spice grind it fresh for a pop of flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: deepens umami notes add carefully so not to overpower the dish

Instructions

Build The Base:

Sauté the chopped onions, finely chopped garlic, and ground bison in olive oil over medium heat. Cook gently until the onions are soft and translucent and the bison has lost its pink color. This slow cooking draws out sweetness and creates a proper flavor foundation.

Add Mushrooms:

Stir in the diced mushrooms and continue cooking for a few minutes. Mushrooms release moisture and add an earthy tone. Cooking them now ensures they blend harmoniously with the meat.

Thicken The Sauce:

Sprinkle flour evenly over the mixture and stir well until there are no lumps. This step is crucial for a smooth creamy sauce without any gritty texture.

Simmer The Stroganoff:

Pour in the broth, then add the heavy cream, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Adjust heat to medium-low and let it gently bubble for about five minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens just right.

Finish With Sour Cream:

Turn off the heat entirely before stirring in the sour cream carefully so it does not curdle. This addition lifts the dish with its tang and richness.

Serve warm over your choice of noodles or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce may thicken so add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to refresh the texture. Avoid freezing as the dairy can separate and become grainy.

Ingredient Swaps

For a lighter version use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream but add it off the heat to prevent curdling. Swap heavy cream with half and half or whole milk for a less rich version. Mushrooms can be replaced by cremini or button types depending on availability.

Serving Ideas

Serve over egg noodles for a traditional feel or creamy mashed potatoes for extra comfort. Roasted green beans or a crisp side salad bring balance to the richness of the stroganoff. Fresh herbs like parsley sprinkled on top add a pop of freshness.

This stroganoff recipe balances rich flavors with a quick prep time making it your go-to for a cozy weeknight meal.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ What cut of bison is best for this dish?

Ground bison works well because it cooks quickly and distributes flavor evenly throughout the sauce.

→ Can I use other mushrooms besides the ones listed?

Yes, cremini or button mushrooms are great substitutes that complement the creamy sauce perfectly.

→ How do I prevent lumps when adding flour?

Sprinkle flour gradually into the pan and stir continuously to ensure it mixes smoothly without clumps.

→ What can I serve this with besides noodles?

This dish pairs nicely with rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables for variety.

→ Is there a way to adjust the sauce thickness?

Yes, add a bit more broth for a thinner sauce or cook it longer to reduce and thicken.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

It can be cooked ahead and refrigerated; reheat gently and stir in sour cream just before serving for best texture.