Ground Beef Stroganoff

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delightful and hearty dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. This classic recipe combines flavorful ground beef with sautéed mushrooms in a creamy sauce, making it perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even special occasions. With its easy preparation and rich flavors, Ground Beef Stroganoff stands out as a favorite among comfort food lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef and sautéed mushrooms creates a savory and satisfying sauce that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have at home without sacrificing flavor.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and delicious taste make this dish appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Great for Leftovers: Ground Beef Stroganoff reheats beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, having the right tools is essential. Here are some kitchen tools you’ll need for this recipe.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook the ground beef and sauté vegetables evenly.
• Pot for boiling noodles: Ensures the egg noodles are cooked perfectly alongside your sauce.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Helps ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

Featuring flavorful ground beef and sautéed mushrooms in a creamy sauce, this Ground Beef Stroganoff makes for an easy and classic comfort food meal!

For the Meat Sauce

• 16 oz. lean ground beef (can use ground turkey)
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• ½ cup diced yellow onions
• 8 oz. sliced cremini mushrooms
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¾ tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Creamy Mixture

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1¾ cups beef broth
• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• ¾ cup sour cream

For Serving

• 12 oz. package egg noodles
• Fresh parsley (chopped)

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Using a large skillet, add ground beef over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until browned. Drain any excess grease from the skillet if necessary.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms

Add butter, diced onions, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir until well combined. Continue cooking for 5–7 more minutes until the onions are translucent and the beef is fully cooked.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Reduce heat to medium-low. Add minced garlic, dried thyme, kosher salt, and black pepper; stir until well combined. Cook for an additional minute to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle flour over the mixture; stir until combined. Continue cooking for another 1–2 minutes to eliminate raw flour taste.

Step 5: Pour in Broth and Worcestershire Sauce

Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce; stir well. Increase heat to medium-high until it reaches a simmer. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 6: Cook the Egg Noodles

While the sauce simmers, cook egg noodles according to package instructions (7–9 minutes). Drain when done.

Step 7: Mix in Sour Cream

Stir sour cream into the beef mixture; cook for another 1–2 minutes until heated through but do not boil.

Step 8: Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve over cooked egg noodles for a comforting meal everyone will love!

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

Serving Ground Beef Stroganoff is all about enhancing the rich flavors of this creamy dish. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes can elevate your meal to a delightful experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs – A few thyme leaves can complement the savory notes in the stroganoff.

Over Garlic Bread

• Toasted Garlic Bread – Serve your stroganoff over slices of toasted garlic bread for a crunchy texture that pairs well with the creamy sauce.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious and vibrant side.
• Roasted Carrots – Roasted carrots bring sweetness and contrast to the savory dish.

On a Bed of Rice

• Fluffy White Rice – Serving stroganoff over rice is a classic way to soak up all the delicious sauce.
• Brown Rice – For a healthier option, brown rice offers more fiber and nuttiness.

How to Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff

Perfecting Ground Beef Stroganoff involves attention to detail in both flavor and texture. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Lean Ground Beef – Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish from becoming too greasy while ensuring it’s still flavorful.
• Sauté Mushrooms Thoroughly – Sautéing mushrooms until they are golden enhances their flavor and adds depth to the sauce.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and thyme according to your preference for maximum flavor.
• Incorporate Sour Cream Last – Adding sour cream at the end helps maintain its creamy texture without curdling during cooking.
• Serve Immediately – Ground Beef Stroganoff is best enjoyed fresh. Serve it hot for optimal taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Pairing your Ground Beef Stroganoff with complementary sides can make your meal complete. Here are some excellent side dishes to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting side that pairs well with stroganoff.
2. Green Salad – A crisp green salad with vinaigrette provides balance and freshness, cutting through the richness of the dish.
3. Sauteed Green Beans – Lightly sautéed green beans add crunch and color, making for an appealing plate.
4. Crispy Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside your creamy stroganoff.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn on the cob is an easy summer side that brings brightness to your meal.
6. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of Ground Beef Stroganoff.
7. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Roasting Brussels sprouts enhances their natural sweetness, making them a delicious pairing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Ground Beef Stroganoff, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a successful dish.

• Ignoring the meat quality: Using low-quality ground beef can lead to a greasy texture. Opt for lean ground beef or turkey for a flavorful and healthier option.
• Overcooking the mushrooms: Cooking mushrooms too long can make them rubbery. Sauté them just until they’re tender and golden for the best flavor.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your beef mixture properly can result in a bland dish. Be generous with salt and pepper, and don’t forget the thyme!
• Not thickening the sauce adequately: If you don’t let the flour cook long enough, your sauce may be too runny. Make sure to stir and cook it for a minute before adding liquids.
• Using low-fat sour cream: While it may be tempting, low-fat sour cream can affect the creaminess of the dish. Stick with full-fat sour cream for richer flavor.
• Cooking noodles improperly: Overcooked noodles can turn mushy. Follow package instructions and taste test to ensure perfect texture.

Refrigerator Storage

• Ground Beef Stroganoff can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in a container to prevent condensation.

Freezing Ground Beef Stroganoff

• You can freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place stroganoff in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer stroganoff into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff?

You can serve this dish with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. A side salad or steamed vegetables also complements it well.

How do I make Ground Beef Stroganoff gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch mixed with water as a thickener. Use gluten-free noodles as well.

Can I use other meats in Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Each type will bring its unique flavor profile while keeping it delicious.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill just before serving can elevate the dish’s flavor. A dash of lemon juice also adds brightness!

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting and versatile meal that brings together rich flavors and creamy textures. It’s easy to customize by swapping out proteins or adding your favorite vegetables. Try this hearty recipe soon!