Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

If you're looking for a quick and satisfying dinner that's full of creamy, savory flavor, then this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is just what you need! It’s a classic dish that’s been loved for generations and is perfect for busy weeknights. This hearty, creamy, and flavorful dish is super easy to make and sure to be a hit with the entire family. Ready to learn how to make this tasty dish? Let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a variation of the traditional Russian beef stroganoff. Instead of using slices of beef, this recipe utilizes ground beef for a quicker, more economical version of the beloved creamy dish. The ground beef is cooked in a savory sauce made with onions, garlic, mushrooms, beef broth, and sour cream, then served over egg noodles or rice. It’s a comforting, delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy!

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff

To make this delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef – Choose lean ground beef to avoid excessive greasiness.
• 1 onion, finely chopped – Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the sauce.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall flavor with a touch of sharpness.
• 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced – Cremini or white button mushrooms work well.
• 1 cup beef broth – Adds depth to the sauce.
• 1 cup sour cream – Creates the creamy texture and tangy taste that makes stroganoff so delicious.
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds umami and complexity to the flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Optional, but adds a slight tang.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – For seasoning.
• 8 oz (225 g) egg noodles – The classic base for stroganoff.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to customize your Ground Beef Stroganoff? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or tofu.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free version or use coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce and gluten-free pasta instead of egg noodles.
• Add Veggies: For extra nutrients, add bell peppers, peas, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: Lighten up the dish by swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare the perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff:

1. Cook the Egg Noodles: Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Break up the beef into small crumbles with a spatula. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms release their liquid and begin to brown.
4. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer on low heat for 5-10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from the heat, then add the sour cream. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Serve: Serve the ground beef stroganoff over egg noodles and garnish with chopped parsley.

How to Cook Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather all the ingredients so everything is within reach.
2. Prep your veggies: Chop the onions, mince the garlic, and slice the mushrooms. Preparing these ahead of time will make the cooking process smoother.
3. Start with the noodles: Since they take around 8-10 minutes to cook, get them boiling right at the start.
4. Cook the ground beef until browned and then set it aside. This step allows you to use the same skillet for the rest of the ingredients, saving on cleanup.
5. Sauté the vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness and flavor. Cooking them slowly ensures they soften without burning.
6. Build the sauce by adding flour to the sautéed veggies, which will thicken it as you add the beef broth. Consistently stir for a lump-free, creamy texture.
7. Simmer to blend flavors, then add the sour cream last. This keeps the sauce from curdling and ensures a smooth finish.
8. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Draining the Ground Beef: If you don’t drain the excess fat, your stroganoff will end up too greasy.
2. Adding Sour Cream Too Early: Adding sour cream while the sauce is too hot may cause it to curdle. Remove the skillet from the heat first.
3. Skipping the Flour: The flour is essential to thicken the sauce. Skipping it may result in a runny consistency.
4. Overcooking the Noodles: Overcooked noodles can become mushy. Cook them until al dente for the best texture.

Serving and Presentation Tips

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Serve over a bed of freshly cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
• Add a side of steamed vegetables like green beans, broccoli, or peas for extra color and nutrition.
• Pair with a crusty bread roll to mop up any extra sauce on the plate.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Garnish with Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a burst of color that makes the dish look more appetizing.
• Serve in Individual Bowls: Presenting the stroganoff in individual bowls can make it feel like a special, restaurant-quality meal.
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: For a gourmet touch, add a small dollop of sour cream on top of each serving, along with a light sprinkle of paprika.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms, onions, and garlic make a huge difference in flavor.
2. Low and Slow: Let the sauce simmer on low to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
3. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few extra minutes to thicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the stroganoff up to a day in advance. Reheat it over low heat, stirring in a bit of beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Q: What can I use instead of egg noodles?
A: You can serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even quinoa for a different texture and flavor profile.

Q: How can I make the sauce richer?
A: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half along with the sour cream for an extra creamy, rich sauce.

Q: Can I freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff?
A: It’s possible, but the sour cream may change texture after freezing. To avoid this, freeze the stroganoff without the sour cream and stir it in after reheating.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delightful, comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up this classic meal in no time. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or make a few custom tweaks, this hearty dish is sure to become a family favorite. So grab your skillet, follow this guide, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal tonight!

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