Introduction
There’s something truly magical about the aroma of ground beef stroganoff wafting through the home on a chilly evening. Picture this: It’s a cozy night, the kind where you can hear the gentle patter of raindrops against your window. You scoop a spoonful of creamy, savory goodness, and, with every bite, memories of family dinners and laughter flood back. This is why I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Simple and Delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff—a comforting dish that not only warms your belly but also your heart.
Why Make This Recipe
You might wonder why this particular dish holds a special place in my kitchen. Here are a few reasons why you should consider making Simple and Delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff your next family meal:
- Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, this is an easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Cozy Flavors: The creamy texture and savory flavors are like a warm hug on a plate.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves it; you can’t go wrong with this family favorite.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap items based on what you have on hand, making it adaptable for your needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious stroganoff. Here’s what you’ll need, along with great substitution notes:
- 1 lb ground beef: This will be the main protein. You could substitute with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: For depth of flavor; use shallots for a milder taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that aromatic kick.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: These add earthiness; fresh or canned work well.
- 1 cup beef broth: Use low-sodium to control salt levels; chicken broth is a reasonable substitute.
- 1 cup sour cream: This adds creaminess; Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
- 2 tablespoons flour: For thickening; cornstarch is gluten-free and can be used as a substitute.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning.
- Egg noodles: A classic pairing; you can try rice or mashed potatoes if you prefer.
Prep and Cook Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
This recipe is quick enough for busy weeknights but satisfying enough to feel that you’ve truly cooked something special.
How to Make Simple and Delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff
Cooking this dish is like a warm embrace on a plate. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting meal to savor:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook for about 5 minutes, or until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Veggies: Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the mushrooms soften and release their juices.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional minute. Slowly add the beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens—about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the Creaminess: Reduce the heat to low, then add the sour cream. Mix until it’s beautifully creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, letting the sauce seep into each noodle, or simply enjoy it straight from the skillet.
Tips and Creative Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe! Here are some fun ideas to personalize your stroganoff:
- Add some heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes gives a slight kick.
- Herbal notes: Fresh or dried parsley can enhance the flavor beautifully.
- Swap the protein: Try ground chicken or even lentils for a vegetarian twist.
- Seasoned twists: Experiment with different spices like paprika or even a touch of Dijon mustard for a unique flavor.
- Festive touches: Consider adding a splash of white wine for extra depth.
Serving Ideas
Now that your kitchen smells divine, let’s make a perfect meal out of it! Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dinner:
- Serve alongside steamed broccoli or a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair with a glass of hearty red wine, like a Merlot, or a refreshing iced tea.
- Enjoy a slice of warm bread to soak up the delicious sauce, rounding off a perfect meal.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftovers (which will happen, trust me), here are some quick tips:
- Storage: Store leftover stroganoff in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes beautifully! Just make sure to cool it down completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to keep it creamy.
Pro Tips for Success
- Pre-cook noodles: Prepare your noodles while the stroganoff cooks to save time.
- Brown the beef correctly: Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve that nice brown crust.
- Thicker sauce: For a thicker sauce, simmer longer, or add a bit more flour.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the seasoning to your preference, especially after adding sour cream.
- Use a non-stick skillet: This ensures easy cooking and clean-up, especially with creamy dishes.
FAQs
-
Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, ground beef stroganoff freezes well! Just remember to cool it down before freezing. -
What’s the best substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a lighter option that still gives you that creamy texture. -
Can I use a different kind of pasta?
Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, any pasta you have on hand will work, including gluten-free varieties.
Conclusion
So there you have it—your journey to a pot of Simple and Delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to create memories, share laughter, and enjoy time with loved ones. Next time you need a comforting recipe that brings everyone to the table, remember this dish. I can’t wait for you to experience the joy and warmth of this homemade delight. Let me know how it turns out, and happy cooking!
Contents
Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef You can substitute with turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Use shallots for a milder taste.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Essential for aroma.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced Fresh or canned mushrooms work well.
- 1 cup beef broth Use low-sodium to control salt levels; chicken broth is a reasonable substitute.
- 1 cup sour cream Greek yogurt is a lighter alternative.
- 2 tablespoons flour Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free thickener.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for seasoning.
- Egg noodles You can substitute with rice or mashed potatoes if preferred.
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook for about 5 minutes, or until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the mushrooms soften.
- Sprinkle flour over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional minute. Slowly add the beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low, add the sour cream, and mix until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, allowing the sauce to seep into each noodle.
Notes
Written by Salaheddine — founder of Tasty Sunrise, sharing easy and comforting homemade recipes for every occasion.