Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal on a chilly evening, and few dishes embody that sensation better than Beef Stroganoff. This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of ground beef, creamy sour cream, and savory mushrooms over a bed of tender egg noodles or rice. With its easy-to-follow steps, this dish quickly transforms into a favorite in any household, bringing family and friends together around the dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
- Quick and easy: With ground beef as the star ingredient, this recipe allows you to whip up a delicious meal in no time.
- Comfort food at its finest: The creamy texture and savory taste create a dish that warms the heart and satisfies the soul.
- Versatile serving options: Whether paired with egg noodles or rice, this dish is incredibly adaptable and can be enjoyed in various ways.
If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen, then Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef is just what you need to elevate your weeknight meals.
Easy Method for Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef
Making Beef Stroganoff at home may seem like a daunting task, but I promise it’s easier than you think. Follow these steps for a delicious dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Brown the Ground Beef: Start by warming a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 pound of lean ground beef. Cook it for 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula until fully browned and cooked through. This step not only gives the beef flavor but also sets the foundation for the dish.
Sauté the Aromatics: Once the beef is browned, add in a finely chopped medium onion and 2 cloves of minced garlic. You’ll want to sauté these for about 3 to 4 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their aromatic flavors that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Incorporate Mushrooms: Stir in 8 ounces of sliced fresh mushrooms to the beef and onions. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender. Their earthy flavor will enhance the overall taste of the Stroganoff, making the dish even more delightful.
Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the mixture. Stir well to ensure the flour is evenly distributed. Gradually add 2 cups of low-sodium beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Add the Creaminess: Reduce the heat and gently fold in 1 cup of full-fat sour cream. This step gives the Stroganoff its signature creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste, which will enhance the flavors beautifully.
Serve it Up: Prepare your cooked egg noodles or rice according to package instructions. Once they are ready, serve the beef mixture generously over your chosen base. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage Tips for Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef
When it comes to storage, ensuring your Beef Stroganoff stays fresh is key to enjoying every last bite. Here are some storage guidelines to follow:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days at 40°F (4°C).
- Freeze: If you want to save it for a longer period, you can freeze the Stroganoff for up to 2 months. Make sure to label the container with the date.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to restore creaminess if necessary.
Best Ways to Serve Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef
There are numerous delightful ways to enjoy your Beef Stroganoff beyond just the basic serving suggestions. Consider these options:
- Classic Egg Noodles: The traditional pairing for Beef Stroganoff, egg noodles provide a soft and comforting base that soaks up the savory sauce wonderfully.
- Fluffy Rice: For a heartier option, serve the Stroganoff over steamed rice. This choice is especially satisfying and can balance out the rich flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: If you prefer an even creamier bite, try serving the Stroganoff over buttery mashed potatoes, which complement the dish beautifully.
- Zucchini Noodles: For those seeking a lighter, low-carb alternative, zucchini noodles are a refreshing option that adds a touch of freshness and crunch.
Tips to Make Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish from becoming overly greasy, ensuring a delicious texture that balances with the creamy elements.
- Season Wisely: Don’t shy away from seasoning your beef before sautéing it. A little garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika can elevate the overall flavor of your dish tremendously.
- Add Greens for Nutrition: For an extra health boost, consider adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. They will wilt quickly and infuse the dish with added nutrients without sacrificing the rich flavor.
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re looking to customize your Beef Stroganoff, there are several variations you can consider:
- Switch the Meat: For a twist, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. These leaner options still provide a hearty meal but with fewer calories.
- Vegan Option: To create a plant-based version, substitute the ground beef with lentils and cashew cream for the sour cream. This alternative maintains the creamy texture while being friendly to vegan diets.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve. Just remember to store it properly in an airtight container.
Q: Can I use chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes, using ground chicken or turkey is a delicious alternative. The cooking steps would remain essentially the same, and the dish will have a lighter flavor.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: If you’re looking to add some heat, consider incorporating a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes while cooking. This small adjustment can make a significant difference.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
A: Certainly! You can use cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce. Just be mindful of the broth as well, ensuring it’s gluten-free.
Q: How do I know when the mushrooms are tender?
A: Mushrooms will shrink in size and turn a golden-brown color once cooked. They should feel soft to the touch but not mushy.
Creating a comforting bowl of Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef is now a breeze with these simple instructions. Elevate your weeknight dinners with this creamy, hearty dish that not only fills the tummy but also warms the heart. You’ll find that every bite is rich with flavor, creating memories around the dinner table that last long after the meal is done.
So roll up your sleeves and get ready to indulge in one of life’s most soothing dishes. You won’t regret giving it a try!
Print
Beef Stroganoff with Ground Beef
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty Beef Stroganoff made with ground beef, creamy sour cream, and savory mushrooms, served over egg noodles or rice.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for approximately 5 minutes until tender.
- Sprinkle the flour over the skillet mixture and stir to combine.
- Gradually add the beef broth, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat and fold in the sour cream, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over cooked egg noodles or rice, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.