Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
When you think of comfort food, what comes to mind? For many, it’s the rich, creamy, and savory flavors of beef stroganoff. This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe provides a delicious way to twist a classic dish that warms your heart and satisfies your cravings. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or any time you need a cozy meal that feels like a big hug on a plate.
Why Make This Recipe
- This dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone—from children to adults—will love.
- You can customize it to fit your tastes or dietary needs with simple variations.
Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delightful dish and bring a touch of comfort to your dining table!
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
Creating this delicious ground beef stroganoff at home is simpler than you might think. Follow these easy steps, and you’ll be savoring the mouth-watering flavors in no time.
1. Gather Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure you have all your ingredients ready and measured out. Here’s what you’ll need for this dish:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces egg noodles
2. Sauté the Base Flavors
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial as it lays the groundwork for the rich flavors of the stroganoff.
3. Brown the Beef
Next, add the 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. You’re looking for a nice brown color, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; browning the beef enhances its flavor.
4. Add the Mushrooms
Once the beef is beautifully browned, stir in the sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing them to release their juices and soften. The mushrooms add an earthy richness to the dish, elevating it to new heights.
5. Flour Time
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the beef and mushroom mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. This might seem unusual, but the flour is essential for thickening the sauce that will envelop your noodles and beef later.
6. Pour in the Broth
Gradually add the beef broth while stirring continuously. This will help to deglaze the pan and incorporate all those delicious browned bits at the bottom. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer.
7. Stir in the Cream
Once the mixture is simmering, reduce the heat and stir in 1 cup of sour cream along with salt and pepper to taste. The sour cream adds that signature creaminess, making each bite unforgettably delicious.
8. Cook the Noodles
As the beef stroganoff simmers away, you can cook your egg noodles according to the package instructions. This is a great time to multitask—ensuring your noodles are perfectly al dente when combined with the stroganoff.
9. Combine Everything
When your noodles are done, drain them and then serve the beef stroganoff over the noodles. Don’t forget to give everything a good mix to ensure the noodles are well-coated in the creamy sauce.
10. Serve and Enjoy
Dish out this comforting meal immediately while it’s hot. Everyone will gather around the table, ready to dig in!
Storing Leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff
Keeping leftover ground beef stroganoff fresh is essential for enjoying this meal several times throughout the week. Here are some guidelines for proper storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours of cooking.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days at 40°F.
- For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- When reheating, ensure the meal is heated thoroughly to at least 165°F.
Best Ways to Serve Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
This delectable dish offers numerous serving ideas that can complement it perfectly. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your meal:
- Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the stroganoff.
- Garlic Bread: Hot, buttery garlic bread makes an excellent side to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables can add healthy fiber to your meal.
- Steamed Broccoli: For an easy and nutritious companion, serve it alongside some steamed broccoli.
- Wine Pairing: A rich red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a smooth Chardonnay complements the flavors beautifully.
Tips to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
If you’re looking to elevate your dish even further, here are some quick tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t Rush the Meat Browning: Let it brown thoroughly to enhance the flavor.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process to make it just right for your palate.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in some fresh parsley or thyme just before serving for added flavor and color.
- Experiment with Creaminess: If you like it creamier, add more sour cream or even a splash of heavy cream for richness.
Flavor Variations and Substitutions
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider the following variations or substitutions:
- Mushroom Lovers: If you adore mushrooms, use a mix of different varieties like shiitake or portobello for deeper flavor.
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that’s equally tasty.
- Herb Alternatives: If you prefer different herbs, try adding dill or thyme for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening, and serve with gluten-free pasta.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just heat it up when you’re ready and serve it over freshly cooked noodles.
Q: Can I freeze the stroganoff?
A: Yes, ensure it’s sealed in an airtight container. It can last up to two months in the freezer.
Q: How do I avoid soggy noodles?
To prevent soggy noodles, cook them separately and only combine them with the stroganoff just before serving.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream, plain Greek yogurt makes a great alternative with a similar tangy flavor.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
A: If you like some heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you’re combining ingredients for that extra kick.
Nutritional Info
For those mindful of nutrition, here’s a rough breakdown of what one serving of this dish contains:
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fats: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind that nutritional values may vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes.
Enjoying a homemade meal doesn’t just add joy to your table; it brings people together. This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is not just a dish, but an experience filled with the delightful aromas and warmth that fills your kitchen. As you share this comforting meal, you’re creating memories that will outlast the plate itself. Give it a try tonight and see how this timeless recipe brings back those good old-fashioned feelings of home.
Print
Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and creamy ground beef stroganoff that’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add ground beef to the skillet, cooking until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to combine.
- Gradually add beef broth, stirring continuously, and allow it to simmer.
- Reduce heat and stir in sour cream along with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
- Drain the noodles and serve stroganoff over them, mixing well.
- Enjoy your delicious beef stroganoff while it’s hot!
Notes
For a creamier variation, add more sour cream or a splash of heavy cream. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 2 months.