There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty dish, especially when it brings back fond memories of family gatherings around the dinner table. Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is one of those delightful meals that envelops you like a warm hug. It’s not just food; it’s an experience filled with flavors that linger long after the last bite. I believe this is a must-have recipe for anyone looking to whip up something quick yet satisfying, and it’s perfect for all ages, especially seniors who appreciate simple, fulfilling meals.
At the heart of this dish are some beautifully classic ingredients. With 1 pound of ground beef, a medium onion, and 2 cloves of garlic, not to mention 1 cup of sliced mushrooms, this dish dances on the palate with savory notes. Adding 2 cups of beef broth, a touch of Worcestershire sauce, and a little Dijon mustard gives it a depth we all crave. Don’t forget the 1 cup of sour cream, which sends it straight into the comfort-food realm. All these flavors coalesce beautifully over 8 ounces of egg noodles while a sprinkle of chopped parsley brings a fresh pop to the plate.
This recipe is as uncomplicated as it gets—there’s no need for culinary expertise. Just cook the noodles, sauté the beef, and blend in a rich sauce that’s bursting with flavor. In eight straightforward steps, you’ll create an evening meal that feels indulgent without being labor-intensive. It’s a fantastic dinner solution, and before you know it, you’ll have plates full of comforting goodness to share with loved ones.
Imagine sitting down to enjoy this scrumptious dinner on a chilly evening, perhaps while catching up with family or entertaining friends. Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is an ideal go-to for cozy nights, weeknight dinners, or potlucks, where good food and good company make for unforgettable moments.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Quick Preparation: It comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the components in your pantry already.
- Comfort Food Classic: Satisfy your cravings with a creamy and flavorful dish.
- Great for Families: It serves multiple people and is loved by both kids and adults.
- Easily Customizable: You can easily tweak the recipe to fit your dietary preferences.
Ground Beef Tips
Choosing the right beef is essential for the best flavor. Opt for 80/20 ground beef, which has a good balance of fat and lean meat. This ratio provides ample flavor while keeping the meat tender and juicy. If you prefer a leaner cut, you can go for 90/10 ground beef, but be mindful that it may require a little extra seasoning. Always check the expiration date and ensure it looks fresh and bright red.
Options for Substitutions
- Ground Turkey: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner alternative.
- Cream Cheese: Use cream cheese instead of sour cream for a richer flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with lentils or mushrooms for a meatless version.
- Beef Broth Alternatives: Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
- Different Noodles: Use whole wheat or gluten-free egg noodles if preferred.
- Herb Variations: Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Watch Out for These Mistakes
Cooking egg noodles too long can lead to a mushy texture. Always check the package for timing and taste them just before draining. When browning ground beef, ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet, which can lead to steaming instead of browning. Also, remember to drain excess fat after browning; this will prevent your stroganoff from being greasy. Finally, add the sour cream at the end to avoid curdling—it should simply heat through.
What to Serve With Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff?
This stroganoff pairs wonderfully with a light salad, like a crisp mixed green or Caesar salad, which can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or buttery garlic bread to soak up the sauce. These options can balance the meal while satisfying those carb cravings.
Storage Instructions
Store: Leftover stroganoff can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Reheat: For stovetop, gently warm over low heat, stirring occasionally. In the microwave, place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Recipe Info
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4-6
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
Calories: 1,200-1,400
Protein: 70-85 grams
Fat: 70-80 grams
Carbohydrates: 80-90 grams
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
To the skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate the Mushrooms
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender, about another 5 minutes, allowing their flavors to meld with the beef.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to combine.
Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream
Once the broth is simmering, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Heat gently, just until warmed throughout. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from curdling.
Step 7: Season and Mix
Season the stroganoff with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well to ensure it’s evenly distributed.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Serve the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish each plate with chopped parsley for a touch of color and flavor.
Conclusion
This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is more than just a recipe; it’s a chance to indulge in a comforting meal that you can enjoy with family or friends. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, it’s an accessible option for home cooks of all skill levels. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you, and I would love to hear your thoughts on the recipe. Feel free to share your experience or explore similar posts for more delightful ideas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just cook the noodles fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Is ground beef stroganoff healthy?
While it can be richer in calories and fat, you can make it healthier by opting for leaner ground beef or substituting some ingredients, such as using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Can I freeze leftover stroganoff?
Absolutely! Just ensure it cools completely before storing in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Print
Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A comforting and hearty dish made with ground beef, egg noodles, and a creamy mushroom sauce, perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces egg noodles
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- To the skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender, about another 5 minutes.
- Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Heat gently, avoiding boiling.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
- Serve the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles and garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
Ensure the sour cream is added at the end to prevent curdling. This dish is great for leftovers and can be frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg