Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
So you’re craving something tasty but too lazy to spend forever in the kitchen, huh? Same. Let me introduce you to the culinary delight that is Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff. This dish is comfort food at its finest, perfect for those days when you just want to cozy up with a big ol’ bowl of goodness without having to channel your inner master chef. Grab your spatula and maybe an apron (totally optional though) because we’re diving into a world of creamy beefy deliciousness.
Why This Recipe is Awesome
First of all, this recipe is basically foolproof. Seriously, it is idiot-proof, even I didn’t mess it up. You know how some recipes look all fancy and intimidating? Not this one. It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together faster than you can decide what to watch on Netflix. Plus, it’s a hearty meal that will fill you up without emptying your wallet or breaking a sweat. Who doesn’t love a meal that’s easy to make, easy to eat, and doesn’t involve a million dishes?
And let’s talk about flavor. This dish is like a warm hug from the inside. The combination of ground beef, mushrooms, and a dreamy creamy sauce is so good that it should probably come with a warning label for its addictive qualities. Seriously, you might want to start making double batches if you have a family or friends because it’ll disappear faster than you can say “what’s for dinner?”
Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, let’s gather our battle gear for this flavorful culinary conquest. Here’s what you need for Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff:
- 1 pound ground beef (because duh, it’s the star of the show)
- 1 medium onion, chopped (tear city, but worth it)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (bring on the flavor)
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (because fungi can be fun, right?)
- 1 cup beef broth (liquid gold for that flavor boost)
- 1 cup sour cream (the cream that dreams are made of)
- 2 tablespoons flour (thickening agent extraordinaire)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (try saying that three times fast)
- Salt and pepper to taste (season to your heart’s desire)
- Egg noodles or rice, for serving (pick your carb, no judgment here)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients, let’s get this show on the road. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess fat (unless you want a greasy situation).
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. This is the part where your kitchen starts smelling like a restaurant.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened. They’re just here to soak up all that flavor.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well. Time to get that thickness going.
- Gradually add the beef broth, stirring until the mixture thickens. This is where the magic happens, folks.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and sour cream, mixing until smooth. You’re building a creamy paradise right here.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Taste, taste, taste—don’t forget that part.
- Serve over cooked egg noodles or rice. This is where your choice of carb comes into play—choose wisely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Let’s ride the struggle bus together because nobody wants to experience the lows of cooking mishaps.
Skipping the browning step: If you just toss the beef in without browning it, you might as well eat cardboard. Seriously. Browning adds depth and flavor that you do not want to miss.
Forgetting to taste: This one’s a rookie mistake. Always taste your food as you go. You can adjust flavors as needed. Don’t just hope for the best.
Using expired ingredients: Your pantry isn’t a time capsule. Check the dates, people. No one wants sour cream from the last millennium.
Getting too crazy with seasonings: It’s tempting to just dump every spice in your cabinet in there, but let’s keep it simple. Salt and pepper do wonders.
Alternatives & Substitutions
Now, I get it. Sometimes you just might not have every single ingredient on hand, or you might want to switch things up a bit. Here are some alternatives to consider:
Ground Turkey or Chicken: Want a leaner option? Swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken. It will still taste good, just maybe not as hearty.
Vegetarian Option: You could use lentils or mushrooms in place of ground beef. For real, mushrooms have a nice meaty texture. Plus, your veggie friend will thank you.
Sour Cream Switch: Don’t have sour cream? Use Greek yogurt or cream cheese. It’ll still be creamy and dreamy.
Beef Broth Alternative: Chicken or vegetable broth can work. Just adjust to your preferences—you do you.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Alright, let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have.
Can I use margarine instead of butter? Well, technically yes, but why hurt your soul like that? Butter is life; treat yourself.
Can leftovers be frozen? Yep! Just make sure to store them in airtight containers. This meal will save you on those lazy days when cooking seems like too much.
Is this recipe good for meal prep? Heck yes. Make it ahead of time, and you’ll be thanking past you for those easy lunches or dinners.
Can I use other types of noodles? Absolutely. Wide egg noodles are classic, but feel free to experiment with whatever pasta floats your boat.
What if I don’t like mushrooms? First of all, shame on you, but remove them and add some peas for a pop of color and a crunch.
How do I know when it is done? When it’s thick and creamy, and your house smells like heaven, it’s done!
Can I add cheese? Why yes, yes you can. Cheese makes everything better, and who are we to argue with that logic?
Final Thoughts
Now go impress someone—or yourself—with your new culinary skills. You’ve earned it. This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is your ticket to flavorful evenings filled with cozy vibes and full bellies. Go on and put on your chef hat, have fun, and maybe even pour yourself a glass of something fun as you create your masterpiece. Happy cooking!
Print
Easy 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 specified
Description
A quick and easy recipe for a comforting ground beef stroganoff, perfect for busy weekdays.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Egg noodles or rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain the excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until softened.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well.
- Gradually add the beef broth, stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and sour cream, mixing until smooth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over cooked egg noodles or rice.
Notes
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. You can also use Greek yogurt or cream cheese instead of sour cream.