Ground Beef Stroganoff
In an era where quick meals reign supreme, Ground Beef Stroganoff proudly sits at the table, ready to warm your stomach and heart. This classic dish delivers a rich, satisfying experience from the first bite to the last. With its creamy sauce and tender beef served over perfectly cooked noodles, it’s no wonder why families keep coming back to this easy weeknight dish. If you’re in search of comfort food that’s both delicious and uncomplicated, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Why Make This Recipe
- Ground Beef Stroganoff is wonderfully versatile, allowing for variations that cater to dietary preferences.
- The rich, creamy flavor profile offers a satisfying solution to your comfort food cravings.
Making this dish is not just about eating; it’s about enjoying the process of cooking, enriching your kitchen routine, and creating lasting memories around the dining table.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ground Beef Stroganoff
Let’s embark on this flavorful journey together. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delightful dish that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share your meal. Gather your cooking tools and ingredients, and let’s get started.
Ingredients
Here is everything you’ll need to whip up a delightful Ground Beef Stroganoff:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions
Follow these simple steps for a delicious experience:
- Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once they are al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef. Cook until it is thoroughly browned and cooked through.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic into the skillet with the ground beef. Stir occasionally, cooking until the mushrooms soften, usually about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
- Carefully fold the cooked egg noodles into the skillet, tossing everything together so that the noodles are well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if you desire a splash of color.
Storage Tips for Ground Beef Stroganoff
To ensure you keep your delicious creation tasting as good as new, follow these storage recommendations:
- Refrigerate leftovers promptly within two hours.
- Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days at a temperature of 40°F or below.
- For longer storage, freeze in appropriate containers for up to 2 months.
- When reheating, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Properly storing your Ground Beef Stroganoff means you can enjoy those comforting leftovers anytime you crave them.
Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Serving Ground Beef Stroganoff can be as creative as the dish itself. Consider pairing it with:
- Freshly baked bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A simple green salad drizzled with vinaigrette to add a refreshing crunchy contrast.
- Steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, can add a pop of color and nutrition.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like dill or chives for an extra layer of flavor.
Each bite can be customized to your taste, making this dish both delightful and nourishing.
Tips to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- To enhance the taste, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of mustard to the sauce mixture.
- For a vegan version, replace ground beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP) and substitute sour cream with cashew cream.
These little adjustments can elevate your Ground Beef Stroganoff to the next level.
Variations or Substitutions
If you’re looking to mix things up, here are some variations you might consider:
- Mushroom Lovers: Add a variety of mushrooms, such as portobello or shiitake, to deepen the earthy flavor of your Stroganoff.
- Zoodles: For a low-carb alternative, substitute traditional egg noodles with zucchini noodles. This variation provides a refreshing take that keeps the dish lighter yet still satisfying.
Experimenting with these substitutions can turn this classic recipe into something uniquely yours.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the meat mixture ahead of time and then combine it with the cooked egg noodles when you’re ready to serve.
Q: What can I use as a substitute for sour cream?
A: Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can serve as excellent alternatives, imparting a slightly tangy flavor while keeping the dish creamy.
Q: How do I make it spicier?
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce while stirring in the cream sauce.
- Consider including diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for an extra kick.
Nutritional Info
While Ground Beef Stroganoff is undeniably tasty, it’s also worth noting its nutritional information to make informed choices. Here’s a general breakdown per serving (based on conventional preparation):
- Calories: Approximately 450
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
Note that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking is as much about learning and improving as it is about enjoying delicious meals. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for when making Ground Beef Stroganoff:
- Overcooking the noodles: Allow them to remain slightly firm to the bite, as they will soften further when combined with the sauce.
- Neglecting to season the meat: Ground beef should be seasoned properly to enhance its flavor. Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper.
- Going too heavy on the mushrooms: While mushrooms are a star in this dish, balance is essential. Too many can overpower the other flavors.
Learning from these missteps will elevate your cooking skills and result in a perfected dish.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Stroganoff is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings families together. Through its rich flavors and comforting textures, this dish creates that warm feeling reminiscent of home cooking. Its simplicity coupled with versatility makes it perfect for dinner parties or everyday meals alike.
As you gather around the table, sharing laughter and stories, allow Ground Beef Stroganoff to play a starring role in your culinary adventures. Each time you whip it up, know that you are creating not just a meal but cherished memories.
So lace up your apron, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this heartwarming recipe. Bon appétit!
Print
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: Omnivore
Description
This classic Ground Beef Stroganoff features a rich, creamy sauce served over tender egg noodles, making it a beloved comfort food that’s both delicious and uncomplicated.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once they are al dente, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic into the skillet, cooking until the mushrooms soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the condensed cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold the cooked egg noodles into the skillet, tossing everything together so the noodles are well coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Use lean ground beef for a healthier option. For a vegan version, replace ground beef with textured vegetable protein (TVP) and use cashew cream instead of sour cream.