30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal that satisfies everyone at the table can feel nearly impossible. Enter the 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff, a nostalgic dish that’s as comforting as it is quick to prepare. With its rich, creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked egg noodles and tender ground beef, this meal promises not just a delightful dining experience but also a delightful aroma wafting through your home.
This recipe is a game changer for busy weeknight dinners, offering simplicity without sacrificing flavor. Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of savory goodness, with your loved ones gathered around to share stories of their day. That’s exactly what this Ground Beef Stroganoff brings to the table — warmth, laughter, and satisfaction.
Why Make This Recipe
- Quick and stress-free, ready in just 30 minutes.
- Comforting flavors that appeal to kids and adults alike.
- Versatile ingredients that can easily be found in your pantry.
When you choose this Ground Beef Stroganoff, you’re not only opting for a delicious meal, but you’re also reclaiming precious time to enjoy with family or squeeze in a moment of self-care after a long day.
Easy Method for 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
Now that you’re excited to dive into this delightful dish, let’s break down how to make Ground Beef Stroganoff at home. This straightforward step-by-step guide will ensure you have everything you need to whip up this comforting meal in no time.
Ingredients
To bring this comforting dish to life, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 ounces Egg Noodles
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- ¼ cup Butter
- ¼ cup Flour
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1 ¼ cup Milk
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ¼ cup Sour Cream
Directions
Now let’s get cooking!
- Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, set aside for later.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until all the pink is gone and the beef is fully browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate. Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour the beef broth into the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, continuing to stir over medium heat until the sauce thickens again, about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should be smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the cooked egg noodles and browned ground beef to the skillet, stirring until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Gently stir in the sour cream, mixing until fully incorporated into the sauce. The sour cream will add a rich, tangy flavor to the dish.
- Serve the dish hot, paired with your favorite vegetable or a slice of garlic toast for a complete meal.
Storage Tips for 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, you’re in for a treat! This Ground Beef Stroganoff tastes even better the next day. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate for 3–4 days at 40°F or below.
- Freeze for up to 2 months in airtight containers.
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
When reheating, simply add a splash of milk or beef broth to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.
Best Ways to Serve 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
Serving this dish can be as enjoyable as making it. Here are some ideas to enhance your dining experience:
- Garlic Bread or Toast: Serve with a side of buttery garlic bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: A side of bright, steamed broccoli or green beans adds color and nutrition, balancing the creamy stroganoff.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette for a refreshing touch.
- Petite Peas: A sprinkle of sweet peas can add a pop of color and flavor, making the dish even more enticing.
Tips to Make 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat for a healthier option.
- If you like a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce for an added kick.
- Opt for fresh garlic and onions instead of powders for a richer flavor.
One key tip to keep in mind is to whisk the roux constantly. This ensures a smooth, lump-free sauce, which is key to achieving that creamy texture everyone loves in stroganoff.
Variations or Substitutions
While the classic version of Ground Beef Stroganoff is undeniably delicious, don’t hesitate to play around with different ingredients.
- Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the ground beef for an added earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Pasta Switch: If you’re feeling adventurous, try using wide fettuccine or even spiralized veggies for a gluten-free option.
If you prefer turkey or chicken, feel free to substitute meat while keeping the same cooking method for a lighter version.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Absolutely! Chicken breast or thighs can work beautifully, just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: Simply add fresh diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the sauce. A splash of hot sauce can also elevate the heat level.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! Feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand, or even rice for a different spin on the classic dish.
Nutritional Info
While indulging in a comforting dish, it’s always good to be mindful of the nutritional aspects. Here’s a rough breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 20g
This is ideal for a satisfying dinner yet light enough for a tasty lunch the following day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Noodles: Keep an eye on the timing to ensure the noodles remain al dente and don’t get mushy in the sauce.
- Roux Mistakes: Make sure to whisk continuously when combining the flour and butter. Letting it sit can create lumps.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Always start with the measurements given, and add more if needed. You can always thin it out, but you can’t thicken it back!
Wrapping it Up
The beauty of the 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff lies in its ability to bring people together over a comforting meal. With minimal ingredients, a straightforward cooking process, and mouthwatering results, this dish becomes a weeknight staple that you can return to time and again. The next time you find yourself in a time crunch, whip up this quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction, and enjoy the shared moments of joy it brings to your table.
So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the savory magic of Ground Beef Stroganoff transport you to a cozy, heartwarming dining experience.
Print
30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A quick and comforting dish featuring ground beef in a creamy sauce served over egg noodles.
Ingredients
- 6 ounces Egg Noodles
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- ¼ cup Butter
- ¼ cup Flour
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1 ¼ cup Milk
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ¼ cup Sour Cream
Instructions
- Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, set aside.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and whisk in the flour to create a roux for about 2 minutes.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the milk and mix until the sauce thickens again, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt, mixing well.
- Reduce heat to low, combine cooked noodles and beef, stirring until heated through.
- Gently mix in sour cream until fully incorporated. Serve hot.
Notes
For enhanced flavors, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or fresh garlic and onions.