Ground Beef Stroganoff is a dish that brings comfort, warmth, and a little bit of culinary magic into our lives. Imagine creamy noodles smothered in a rich sauce, with tender pieces of beef dancing joyfully throughout. The aroma wafts through the air like a cozy hug, inviting you to take that first delicious bite.
For me, Ground Beef Stroganoff is not just food; it’s nostalgia served on a plate. I remember my mom making it on chilly evenings after school, her laughter mixing with the sizzle from the stovetop as she whipped up this family favorite. It’s perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings with friends—everyone gets excited when they see those creamy noodles! Get ready to experience a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds singing.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ground Beef Stroganoff is quick and easy to whip up on busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor
- The creamy sauce pairs wonderfully with your favorite pasta, making it visually appealing and indulgent
- It’s versatile enough for customization based on your pantry staples, ensuring everyone enjoys their meal
- Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s always met with smiles at the dinner table
Ingredients for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for optimal flavor while reducing excess grease that can weigh down the dish.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth; be sure to chop it finely so it blends seamlessly into the sauce.
Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add an earthy flavor; opt for cremini or button mushrooms for their tenderness and taste.
Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the overall flavor profile; fresh cloves pack more punch than pre-minced alternatives.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to control saltiness; it helps build the base of your rich sauce.
Sour Cream: This provides creaminess and tanginess; opt for full-fat sour cream for the best results.
Pasta: Wide egg noodles are traditional; they soak up all that luscious sauce perfectly.
Flour: A bit of all-purpose flour thickens your sauce beautifully without making it lumpy.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sautéing the Base
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and toss in your chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until onions turn translucent—about three minutes—releasing their sweet aroma.
Step 2: Browning the Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Cook until browned and crumbly, which should take around five minutes. Make sure you break it up nicely as it cooks!
Step 3: Introducing Mushrooms
Stir in those sliced mushrooms and cook until they soften—about two more minutes—letting their earthy flavors meld with the beef.
Step 4: Making the Sauce
Sprinkle flour over your mixture and stir well to combine everything. Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring this beautiful concoction to a simmer.
Step 5: Adding Creamy Goodness
Once simmering, reduce heat slightly before stirring in sour cream until well incorporated. Cook gently until heated through—be careful not to let it boil!
Step 6: Tossing with Noodles
Cook your wide egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain them and fold them gently into your stroganoff sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer to plates and serve hot for an unforgettable culinary experience!
Enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful Ground Beef Stroganoff—it’s sure to become a staple in your home just like it did in mine!
You Must Know
- Ground Beef Stroganoff is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate!
- This creamy, savory delight brings comfort and joy, making it perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings
- With just the right balance of flavors, it’s sure to impress everyone at your table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To whip up the ultimate Ground Beef Stroganoff, start by browning the ground beef in a skillet. Once that’s sizzling, cook the onions and mushrooms while boiling your favorite pasta or egg noodles. This multitasking magic keeps everything warm and delicious.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Ground Beef Stroganoff! Swap out the ground beef for turkey or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. You can also play around with spices like paprika or thyme to elevate those flavor profiles.
Storing & Reheating
To store your tasty Ground Beef Stroganoff, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove while stirring in a splash of broth for that creamy goodness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a richer flavor, let the beef brown well before adding any other ingredients
- Don’t rush the cooling time; letting everything meld together enhances taste
- Adjust seasoning gradually as you go for perfect balance
Sometimes I think my family would stage an intervention if I ever stopped making Ground Beef Stroganoff on repeat! The way they light up when this dish graces our table is priceless.
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for Ground Beef Stroganoff?
To prepare Ground Beef Stroganoff, you will need essential ingredients like ground beef, pasta (preferably egg noodles), onions, garlic, mushrooms, beef broth, sour cream, and various seasonings such as salt and pepper. You can also add Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor. This combination creates a rich and creamy sauce that pairs perfectly with the beef and noodles. Make sure to have fresh or dried herbs on hand for added aroma. Using quality ingredients will elevate your dish and provide a delicious meal for your family.
How long does it take to cook Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Cooking Ground Beef Stroganoff typically takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. First, you will brown the ground beef, which usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Next, sauté the onions and mushrooms until they’re soft. After that, combine everything with broth and seasoning before simmering for about 10 minutes. Finally, stir in sour cream just before serving over cooked pasta. This quick cooking time makes it an ideal weeknight meal when you’re short on time but still want a hearty dish.
Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time! Prepare the dish as usual but stop just before adding the sour cream. Once cooled, store the stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat it gently on the stove while stirring in the sour cream until warmed through. Making this dish ahead of time is a great way to save time during busy weekdays while still enjoying a comforting homemade meal.
What can I serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Ground Beef Stroganoff pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Traditional choices include egg noodles or rice, which absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. You might also consider serving it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness and nutrition. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are excellent options too if you want something to soak up that delicious sauce. Choose sides that suit your taste preferences while balancing out the creamy richness of the stroganoff.
Conclusion for Ground Beef Stroganoff:
In conclusion, Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delightful dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with flavor. By using quality ingredients like tender ground beef and fresh vegetables, you create a comforting meal that your family will love. Remember that this recipe allows for flexibility; feel free to adjust ingredients according to your preferences or dietary needs. Whether enjoyed on a busy weeknight or served at a cozy gathering, this classic dish satisfies cravings and brings everyone together around the dinner table.
Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a creamy, savory dish that captures the essence of comfort food. With tender ground beef mixed with sautéed onions and mushrooms, all enveloped in a luscious sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Serve it over egg noodles for a satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat)
- 8 oz wide egg noodles
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until onions are translucent (about 3 minutes).
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and crumbly (about 5 minutes), breaking it up as it cooks.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook until softened (about 2 minutes).
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir to combine. Gradually add beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat slightly; stir in sour cream until well incorporated and heated through—avoid boiling.
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and fold into the stroganoff sauce until evenly coated.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
