Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe: Craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to make and pleases the whole family? Ground Beef Stroganoff might just become your new go-to dish. This classic recipe combines rich, creamy sauce with savory ground beef and is a perfect choice for weeknight dinners. Not only is it flavorful and satisfying, but it’s also budget-friendly and requires minimal ingredients.
Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to create the ultimate Ground Beef Stroganoff!
Ingredients Needed
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry or fridge.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80% lean)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Optional Add-ons:
- Sliced mushrooms for added texture
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Essential Kitchen Tools:
- A large skillet
- A medium pot for boiling noodles
- A whisk for the sauce
- Measuring cups and spoons
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prep all the ingredients to make the process smooth and hassle-free.
Chopping Onions and Garlic: Start by finely chopping one medium onion and mincing three garlic cloves. These ingredients will form the flavor base of your Stroganoff, so ensure they are evenly cut for uniform cooking.
Preparing the Beef: If you prefer leaner meat, pat your ground beef with a paper towel to remove excess fat before cooking. This step isn’t mandatory but can help reduce the grease in the dish.
Cooking the Ground Beef Stroganoff
Let’s break down the cooking process into simple, manageable steps:
Step 1: Sautéing the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Be cautious not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 2: Browning the Ground Beef
Push the sautéed onions and garlic to the side of the skillet and add the ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet.
Step 3: Adding the Seasonings
Now, stir in Worcestershire sauce and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture. Mix well to coat evenly. This step helps thicken the sauce later.
Step 4: Creating the Stroganoff Sauce
Gradually pour in 2 cups of beef broth while stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly. Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of sour cream, stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 5: Simmering for Flavor
Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting all the flavors meld together. If you’re using mushrooms, this is the perfect time to add them. Let them cook until tender.
Serving Suggestions
Ground Beef Stroganoff is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with various sides. Here are some popular serving ideas to elevate your meal:
- Over Egg Noodles: The classic choice. Cook 8 ounces of egg noodles according to package instructions, then toss them in a bit of butter before serving with the Stroganoff.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier option, serve the Stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes. The rich sauce complements the fluffy texture perfectly.
- Rice: If you prefer a lighter base, steamed white or brown rice works wonderfully.
- Vegetables: Add a serving of steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots on the side to create a well-balanced meal.
For an extra touch, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of paprika.
Tips for the Perfect Stroganoff
Crafting the perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff involves a few key tricks to ensure the dish is flavorful and has the right texture.
- Avoid Overcooking the Sour Cream: Add the sour cream at a low temperature to prevent it from curdling. Stir it in gently to maintain a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Control the Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or milk. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
- Enhance the Flavor: For a deeper taste, try adding a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the sauce.
- Season Gradually: Always taste and adjust seasonings as you cook. Salt and pepper can make or break the dish!
Variations of Ground Beef Stroganoff
The beauty of Ground Beef Stroganoff lies in its adaptability. Here are some variations to suit different dietary needs:
Low-Carb Version: Skip the egg noodles and serve the Stroganoff over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice. You can also thicken the sauce with xanthan gum instead of flour.
Vegetarian Alternative: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles or cooked lentils. Mushrooms can also serve as a meaty alternative, offering a rich, earthy flavor.
Gluten-Free Adaptation: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener, and opt for gluten-free pasta or rice as the base.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Ground Beef Stroganoff is just as delicious the next day, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.
- Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. If you’ve mixed the sauce with noodles, store them separately to prevent sogginess.
- Freezing: You can freeze the sauce alone for up to 3 months. Avoid freezing with sour cream, as it may separate upon thawing. Add fresh sour cream when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the Stroganoff gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of beef broth or milk to refresh the sauce.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (assuming a standard portion size with noodles):
- Calories: 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Fiber: 2-3g
These values can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes, so adjust accordingly for your dietary needs.
FAQs about Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
What ingredients do I need for a Ground Beef Stroganoff?
For a classic Ground Beef Stroganoff, you’ll need ground beef, onions, mushrooms, garlic, beef broth, sour cream, flour, butter, and egg noodles. Seasonings typically include salt, pepper, and paprika.
How long does it take to cook Ground Beef Stroganoff?
It usually takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook Ground Beef Stroganoff, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.
Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff without mushrooms?
Absolutely! While mushrooms add a rich flavor, you can omit them if you’re not a fan. Consider adding more onions or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth of flavor.
Is Ground Beef Stroganoff gluten-free?
Traditional recipes are not gluten-free due to the flour and egg noodles. However, you can easily adapt the recipe using gluten-free flour for thickening and serving it over gluten-free pasta or mashed potatoes.
What are some tips for making the best Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Use a good quality beef broth and real sour cream for the best flavor. Also, be sure to brown the ground beef well before adding the other ingredients to develop a deep, savory taste in the dish.
Can Ground Beef Stroganoff be made ahead of time?
Yes, it can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. Reheat gently, adding a little extra broth or water if it’s too thick. Add the sour cream just before serving to prevent curdling.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a timeless recipe that’s quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or whipping up a cozy dinner for two, this dish delivers on both flavor and comfort. With its creamy sauce, tender beef, and endless customization options, it’s no wonder this recipe remains a household favorite. Try it out today, and prepare to be amazed!
