Name: Ground Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 0.5 cup diced yellow onion; 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 1-2 cloves); 3 Tablespoons salted butter; 3 Tablespoons all purpose flour; 1.5 cups beef broth; 1 cup sour cream; 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup; salt (to taste); pepper (to taste); cooked egg noodles (for serving (optional))

Introduction to Ground Beef Stroganoff

The Comforting Allure of Homemade Stroganoff

When you think of comfort food, does your mind wander to the creamy, rich flavors of ground beef stroganoff? There’s something undeniably inviting about a dish that combines tender beef with a savory mushroom gravy, all enveloped in the warmth of freshly cooked egg noodles. For busy young professionals, this meal not only delivers a taste of nostalgia but is also quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.

As you stir together the ingredients (real talk: it’s easier than you might think), your kitchen transforms into a cozy haven reminiscent of home-cooked meals. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, reminding us that great taste doesn’t have to break the bank. A recent survey found that over 60% of individuals aged 25-35 are looking for easy yet satisfying recipes to prepare after a long day.

Why not rejuvenate your cooking routine with this delicious dish? Ground beef stroganoff is a versatile option, leaving plenty of room for personalization. You might even add some sautéed vegetables for an extra nutritional punch! So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this culinary adventure together. For a comprehensive recipe, check out our complete guide below!

Ingredients for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Creating a delicious and hearty ground beef stroganoff doesn't require an extensive list of ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Essential ingredients you'll need

1 pound ground beef: This is the star of the dish, offering a savory flavor and satisfying texture.
½ cup diced yellow onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the sauce.
1 teaspoon minced garlic: Fresh garlic complements the beef beautifully.
3 tablespoons salted butter: For a rich, creamy base.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce.
1 ½ cups beef broth: Provides a robust flavor.
1 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a hint of tang.
10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup: Combines with sour cream for a luscious sauce.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing flavors.
Cooked egg noodles: Perfect for serving the stroganoff over.

Optional ingredients for enhancements

While the essentials will yield a fantastic meal, consider these optional ingredients to elevate your ground beef stroganoff:

Mushrooms: Fresh or canned, they add earthiness.
Paprika: A sprinkle can introduce an extra layer of flavor.
Parsley: Fresh herbs add color and freshness.
Cream cheese: For an ultra-rich, creamy texture.

Feel free to experiment and make this dish your own! If you want to explore more on cooking techniques, check out The Kitchn’s Guide to Cooking Beef.

Preparing Ground Beef Stroganoff

Ready to whip up a delicious ground beef stroganoff? This comforting dish is perfect for busy weeknights, combining ease and flavor in a way that will impress your taste buds. Let’s walk through the preparation step by step to ensure your meal turns out delightful every time.

Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. Having everything on hand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound ground beef
½ cup diced yellow onion
1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 1-2 cloves)
3 tablespoons salted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups beef broth
1 cup sour cream
10.5-ounce can cream of mushroom soup
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooked egg noodles (for serving, optional)

Pro tip: Consider prepping your onions and garlic ahead of time. Chopping your veggies early not only saves time but also enhances the flavors in your stroganoff.

Sauté the Beef and Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan. As everything cooks, be sure to break the beef into small pieces with a spatula. This will help it brown evenly and mix well with the other flavors. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess grease.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Now that your beef is ready, it’s time to make the creamy sauce that makes this ground beef stroganoff special. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the salted butter. Let it melt, then whisk in the flour, cooking for about a minute to create a roux. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking vigorously to eliminate lumps. Bring this mixture to a boil and let it thicken for 2-3 minutes.

Combine the Beef with the Sauce

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream and cream of mushroom soup. This is where the dish takes on that luscious, creamy texture. Taste your sauce, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking. If it’s too thick, a little extra beef broth can help loosen it up. Once everything is combined, add your cooked ground beef back into the sauce, heating through.

Serve It Up!

After everything is well-mixed and heated, serve your ground beef stroganoff over a bed of cooked egg noodles. The noodles soak up that creamy goodness and complement the flavors beautifully. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for an extra touch.

This dish is truly a crowd-pleaser—perfect for both family dinners and casual get-togethers. Give it a try next time you’re craving comfort food! For more tips on making perfect egg noodles, check out this useful guide from Bon Appétit. Enjoy your meal!

Variations on Ground Beef Stroganoff

Mushroom-forward variations

For all the mushroom lovers out there, you can elevate your ground beef stroganoff by adding a variety of mushrooms. Start with your classic cremini or button mushrooms, then mix in some shiitake or portobello for a deeper umami flavor. Don’t hesitate to sauté some garlic alongside the mushrooms to amp up the aroma. You can even experiment by finishing the dish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or parsley for a fresh twist!

Leaner alternatives with turkey

Looking for a healthier twist on your ground beef stroganoff? Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey. It’s a fantastic way to retain that hearty flavor while cutting down on the fat. Season it well with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices to enrich the taste. Moreover, using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon can provide that savory crunch you crave while keeping it lean. Your family won’t even notice the difference!

For more insights and ideas on modifying your favorite dishes, check out The Spruce Eats for additional variations and cooking tips!

Cooking Tips for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Perfecting the Sauce Consistency

Achieving the ideal sauce consistency for your ground beef stroganoff is key to a delicious dish. Aim for a creamy texture that's pourable but not too runny. If your sauce becomes too thick, simply whisk in a little extra beef broth until it reaches your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too thin, allow it to simmer longer to thicken up and intensify the flavors.

Flavor Hacks to Try

Elevate your ground beef stroganoff with a few simple flavor hacks:

Add Worcestershire Sauce: A splash can deepen the umami flavor.
Mushroom Variations: Fresh sautéed mushrooms can add texture and enhance the recipe.
Seasoning Layers: Start with salt and pepper, and consider adding garlic powder or onion powder for complexity.
Elegant Touch: A pinch of smoked paprika can add an unexpected depth.

For more insights on sauce techniques, check out this Culinary Institute of America guide on sauces. Happy cooking!

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Ideal Side Dishes to Complement Your Stroganoff

To make your ground beef stroganoff truly memorable, consider pairing it with these fantastic side dishes:

Steamed Green Beans: Their crispiness balances the creamy texture of the stroganoff wonderfully.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce—who can resist?
Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or zucchini tossed with olive oil and herbs add a colorful and nutritious twist.

Creative Serving Ideas

Elevate your ground beef stroganoff presentation with these fun ideas:

Serve in a Bread Bowl: Hollow out a small loaf of bread for a fun, edible dish.
Top with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or dill adds a fresh touch and makes the dish pop.
Layer with Mashed Potatoes: For those who love comfort food, serving stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes is a game-changer.

For more side dish suggestions, check out this great resource on Delicious Side Dishes. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Time details for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Preparation time

The preparation for this delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff takes approximately 10 minutes. During this time, you can chop your onions, mince your garlic, and gather your ingredients, setting you up for a smooth cooking experience.

Cooking time

You'll be spending about 20 minutes on the cooking process. This includes browning the beef and melding those wonderful flavors together into a creamy sauce that's simply irresistible.

Total time

In just 30 minutes, you can have a delightful meal ready to serve! This makes it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time but still want to enjoy homemade goodness.

For additional tips on cooking times and techniques, check out resources like The Kitchn or Serious Eats. These sites provide valuable insights and recipes that can help you become more confident in the kitchen!

Nutritional Information for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Calories per serving

A delightful serving of Ground Beef Stroganoff packs around 522 calories. This hearty meal is not just comforting but also a filling option for busy weeknights.

Key nutrients

This recipe offers essential nutrients, including:

Protein: Ground beef is an excellent source, helping to build and repair tissues.
Calcium: Sourced from sour cream, it aids in bone health.
Iron: Vital for red blood cell production, found in beef and beef broth.

For a deeper dive into nutrient values, you might want to check out the USDA FoodData Central.

Dietary considerations

While Ground Beef Stroganoff is packed with flavor, it's important to note:

High in saturated fat: Opt for lean ground beef to help reduce this impact.
Not gluten-free: The all-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour for those with gluten sensitivities.
Dairy content: If you're lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, consider dairy alternatives for sour cream and cream of mushroom soup.

Creating a balanced meal? Pair this stroganoff with a side of steamed vegetables to complement your plate!

FAQs about Ground Beef Stroganoff

Can I use different meats in this recipe?

Absolutely! While our Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe features ground beef for its rich flavor and texture, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a heartier dish, try using beef stew meat or even shredded rotisserie chicken. Each meat will bring its own unique twist to the classic dish.

Is it possible to make Stroganoff ahead of time?

Yes, making Stroganoff ahead of time is a great idea! You can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for later use. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving. Keep in mind that if you add the cooked egg noodles, they may lose their firmness, so it’s best to cook them fresh right before serving.

What should I serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff acts as a complete meal on its own, but you can certainly enhance your dining experience by serving it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread. For added flair, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. Check out some side dish ideas to elevate your meal even further!

Conclusion on Ground Beef Stroganoff

The satisfaction of home-cooked goodness

There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a rich, creamy ground beef stroganoff after a long day. This dish not only fills your stomach but warms your heart, making dinner feel special. Serve it over noodles, gather your closest friends, and enjoy the simple joy of a meal prepared with love. If you’d like more inspirational recipes, check out these amazing weeknight dinners that your family will adore!