Easy Beef Stroganoff

Name: Easy Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Russian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup sour cream; 8 ounces egg noodles; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

If your weeknight dinners have become a monotonous parade of uninspired meals, it’s time to add some excitement back into your culinary repertoire. Beef Stroganoff is like a warm hug on a plate – comforting, creamy, and downright delicious. This easy-to-make dish combines tender beef and earthy mushrooms with a rich, savory sauce that perfectly wraps around hearty egg noodles. Whether you’re gathered around the table with family or enjoying a quiet meal for one, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around.

Why Make This Recipe

It’s a one-pan wonder, making clean-up a breeze.
The creamy sauce provides a rich flavor that will impress everyone at your table.

You deserve a meal that not only satisfies but also warms your soul, and this Beef Stroganoff does exactly that.

Making Beef Stroganoff at Home

Creating Beef Stroganoff at home is simple and requires just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have on hand. Follow these easy steps to whip up a delicious dish that feels both special and comforting.

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add in the ground beef and allow it to brown completely, stirring occasionally to break it up into smaller pieces. This process usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once it’s browned, carefully drain any excess fat from the skillet. This ensures your dish doesn’t end up greasy later on.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the pan. Stir them in and cook until the onions become translucent. This step usually takes around 3 to 4 minutes and fills your kitchen with an aromatic smell that’s hard to resist.

Step 3: Introduce the Mushrooms

Time to add some earthy goodness. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they soften and release their juices, which takes about 5 minutes. The mushrooms not only enhance the flavor but also lend a delightful texture to the meal.

Step 4: Build Your Sauce

Once the vegetables are tender, it’s time to bring everything together. Pour in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well until all the ingredients are combined, and allow the mixture to simmer, uncovered, for about 5 minutes. This simmering step enables the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite irresistible.

Step 5: Add the Sour Cream

After the mixture has simmered, lower the heat and gently stir in the sour cream until it’s well combined and heated through. Be careful not to boil the sauce at this point, as boiling can curdle the sour cream and change the dish’s creamy texture.

Step 6: Cook the Noodles

As your beef and sauce simmer, it’s a good idea to prepare the egg noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain the noodles and then set them aside.

Step 7: Serve

Now comes the best part! Serve the beef mixture generously over the cooked egg noodles. If you like, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup sour cream
8 ounces egg noodles
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened.
Add the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir until combined.
Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
Reduce heat and stir in the sour cream until heated through.
Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Serve the beef mixture over the egg noodles and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Storage Tips for Beef Stroganoff

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can easily store Beef Stroganoff for later enjoyment. Here’s how:

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months.
When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Serving Suggestions for Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff can be served in myriad ways that let you add your personal touch to this classic:

Pair it with a green salad for a light and refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
Consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
For a heartier meal, serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus.
You could also change the noodle game and use wide pappardelle noodles or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.

Tips to Make Beef Stroganoff

Here are some handy tips to elevate your Beef Stroganoff:

Quality Beef: Use high-quality ground beef for the best flavor; lean ground beef works wonders.
Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley can brighten up the dish significantly; don’t skip this garnish.
Mushroom Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms like cremini or shiitake for more depth in flavor.

Variations or Substitutions

If you want to switch things up or adapt the recipe, consider these alternatives:

Mushroom Swap: If you’re a mushroom fan, add more variety with portobello or a mix of wild mushrooms for an earthy flavor explosion.
Protein Alternatives: For a different twist, try using chicken or turkey in place of ground beef. These proteins also absorb the sauce beautifully and lend a different taste experience.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just reheat it and serve over freshly cooked noodles when you’re ready.

Q: Can I freeze Beef Stroganoff?
A: Yes! Ladle the beef mixture into a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. Just reheat it gently in a saucepan when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Q: How do I add spice to my Beef Stroganoff?
A: If you want a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. You could also experiment with a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a richer flavor profile.

Additional Fun Facts About Beef Stroganoff

Did you know that Beef Stroganoff has Russian origins? The dish is believed to be named after the Stroganoff family, who were wealthy merchants in 19th-century Russia. The original recipe featured sautéed beef in a mustard sauce and was often served with a side of rice. Today, variations can be found all over the world, each boasting its unique twist.

The comforting nature of Beef Stroganoff makes it a beloved dish for family gatherings. This recipe is not merely a meal; it inspires discussions, rekindles memories, and creates warmth in your kitchen. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this easy Beef Stroganoff will undoubtedly add a touch of love to your dinner table.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, remember this unique and simple recipe, and indulge in a comforting bowl of Beef Stroganoff. Bon appétit!

Easy Beef Stroganoff

Easy Beef Stroganoff

Why Make This Recipe