Ground Beef Stroganoff

Is there anything more comforting than a creamy, savory stroganoff on a chilly evening? Forget the fancy cuts of beef; we’re bringing this classic dish to your table with budget-friendly ground beef. This Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect weeknight meal when you need something hearty and satisfying, without spending hours in the kitchen. Imagine tender ground beef simmered in a rich, creamy sauce, infused with savory mushrooms and a hint of tanginess. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to elevate ground beef beyond burgers and meatloaf! As someone who’s spent years perfecting family-friendly meals, I’m excited to share my take on this classic, ensuring it’s both delicious and accessible to everyone.

Ground Beef Stroganoff is trending right now as families look for affordable and delicious dinner solutions. This recipe leverages that trend, offering a comforting and flavorful meal that won’t break the bank. You’ll love how simple it is to make and how quickly it comes together. Get ready to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of Ground Beef Stroganoff that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for the Best Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Ground Beef: The star of the show! I recommend using 80/20 ground beef for the best flavor and texture. The fat renders beautifully, adding richness to the sauce. Leaner ground beef (90/10) will also work, but you might need to add a tablespoon of olive oil to the pan to help with browning.
• Egg Noodles: The traditional choice! I prefer wide egg noodles for their satisfying chewiness and ability to soak up the delicious sauce. If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use other types of pasta like fettuccine or penne.
• Mushrooms: Cremini (baby bella) mushrooms add a lovely earthy flavor. You can also use white button mushrooms, but I find cremini mushrooms have a richer, more complex taste. For a more intense mushroom flavor, consider using a mix of wild mushrooms.
• Onion & Garlic: These aromatics are essential for building a flavorful base. I prefer yellow onion for its mild sweetness, but you can also use white onion. Fresh garlic is always best, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
• Beef Broth: Provides moisture and adds depth of flavor. I recommend using low-sodium beef broth so you can control the saltiness of the dish. You can also use beef bouillon cubes dissolved in water.
• Sour Cream: The key to that creamy, tangy stroganoff sauce! Full-fat sour cream is best for richness and stability, but you can use light sour cream to reduce the fat content. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative, but it might need a little cornstarch to prevent it from curdling.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess and depth of flavor. Don’t skip this ingredient! It really elevates the sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Another secret ingredient that adds umami and complexity.
• Flour: Used to thicken the sauce. All-purpose flour works perfectly, but you can also use cornstarch or arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option.
• Butter: Adds richness and flavor. I prefer unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness of the dish.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste! Don’t be afraid to season generously.
• Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, chopped chives, or a dollop of extra sour cream for serving.

Ingredient Science Note: The acidity in sour cream can sometimes cause it to curdle when heated. To prevent this, temper the sour cream by stirring in a spoonful of the hot sauce before adding it to the pot. This gradually raises the temperature of the sour cream, reducing the risk of curdling.

Expert Tips for Perfect Stroganoff

Here are a few extra tips to ensure your Ground Beef Stroganoff is a masterpiece:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When browning the ground beef, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will steam the beef instead of browning it, resulting in a less flavorful dish.
• Deglaze the pan: After browning the beef, pour in the beef broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor and will add richness to the sauce.
• Cook the noodles al dente: Overcooked noodles will become mushy in the stroganoff sauce. Cook them al dente, meaning they should be firm to the bite.
• Adjust the sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more beef broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to reduce.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the stroganoff and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might need to add more salt, pepper, or Dijon mustard.
• Fresh Herbs Elevate the Dish: Adding fresh parsley or dill at the end takes the entire dish to another level. The aroma and fresh flavor brightens the richness of the sauce.

Personal Testing Note: I’ve found that adding a splash of dry sherry or white wine to the sauce along with the beef broth adds an extra layer of complexity. Be sure to simmer for a minute or two to cook off the alcohol. Also, experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms, for a more gourmet flavor.

FAQ: Your Ground Beef Stroganoff Questions Answered

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can! The stroganoff can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually meld together and become even more delicious. When reheating, add a little beef broth if needed to thin out the sauce. I recommend cooking the noodles separately and adding them just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Can I freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Yes, you can freeze it, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly. The sour cream can sometimes separate upon thawing. To minimize this, use full-fat sour cream and freeze the stroganoff in an airtight container. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a little beef broth if needed to restore the creamy consistency. As with refrigerating, cooking the noodles separately is preferable.

What can I serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables (like broccoli or green beans), or a crusty bread for soaking up the sauce. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill adds a nice touch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free egg noodles or your favorite gluten-free pasta. Instead of all-purpose flour, use cornstarch or arrowroot powder to thicken the sauce. Ensure that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are also gluten-free. There are many gluten-free Worcestershire sauce options available.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The cooking time will be similar. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning as needed, as ground turkey and chicken have a milder flavor than ground beef. I would suggest adding some extra herbs such as thyme and rosemary to bring out the savory notes.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt as a substitute. Greek yogurt is a healthier option, but it’s also tangier than sour cream. To mellow out the tanginess, you can add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to the sauce. As mentioned earlier, you might need a little cornstarch to prevent the Greek yogurt from curdling when heated.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute. You can also add more mushrooms or other vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for added texture and flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies.

Your New Go-To Weeknight Dinner

This Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. From browning the ground beef to stirring in the creamy sour cream sauce, every step is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a hearty dish to warm you up on a chilly evening, this Ground Beef Stroganoff is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and experience the joy of a delicious, homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Now, it’s your turn! Try this Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe and let me know what you think in the comments below. What are your favorite variations or additions? Don’t forget to share your creations on social media using #GroundBeefStroganoff and inspire others to try this comforting dish.

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