Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Name: Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness) (Higher-fat meat keeps it juicy.); 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped (Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.); 2 cloves garlic, minced (Enhances flavor.); 8 oz white or cremini mushrooms, sliced (Mushrooms absorb flavors well.); 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (Thickening agent for the sauce.); 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended) (Controls saltiness of the dish.); 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional) (Adds tanginess.); 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste; 1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste; 1 cup sour cream (full-fat; Greek yogurt can be substituted) (Provides creaminess.); 8 oz wide egg noodles (Main carbohydrate of the dish.); 2 tbsp unsalted butter (For sautéing.); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (For garnish.); 1/2 tsp paprika (optional) (Adds color and slight flavor.); 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional) (For extra richness.); 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional) (For added nutrition.)

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the rich and savory experience of Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff. This meal not only delivers on flavor but also emphasizes ease, making it a prime choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With its tender beef, luscious sauce, and satisfying noodles, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a classic that many families adore, and it’s easy to see why. By combining simple ingredients, you create a meal that’s both satisfying and approachable.

The allure of Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff goes beyond its taste; it also offers a compelling narrative. For many, it’s a taste of nostalgia, rekindling memories of family dinners or special occasions. The creaminess of the sauce, paired with the heartiness of the beef, creates a delightful experience that warms both the body and soul. Making this dish is not only a journey in cooking but also a journey back in time, allowing you to rediscover flavors that have been cherished across generations.

Why make this recipe

There are numerous reasons to make Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff. First and foremost, it’s a fulfilling dish that appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a crowd-pleaser for families and entertaining guests alike. Ground beef is economical and easy to find, yet it can be transformed into something extraordinary when combined with the right ingredients. The rich, savory flavors of the beef and mushrooms meld perfectly with the creamy sauce, resulting in a dish that is deeply satisfying.

Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly versatile. While traditional stroganoff often uses strips of beef, using ground beef makes it faster to prepare and allows for a more casual dining experience. Plus, the recipe lends itself well to variations: you can easily add ingredients like vegetables or spices to suit your preferences. It’s also quick to pull together, taking less than 30 minutes from beginning to end, making it ideal for families on the go.

How to make Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Creating your own Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff at home is an enjoyable and straightforward process. With just a handful of ingredients and simple techniques, you can serve a delicious meal that will impress your loved ones. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and flexibility. So let’s dive into how to make this comforting meal from scratch.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor and juiciness)
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz white or cremini mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth (low-sodium recommended)
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Dijon mustard (optional)
1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
1 cup sour cream (full-fat; Greek yogurt can be substituted)
8 oz wide egg noodles
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: 1/2 tsp paprika
Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream
Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas

Directions

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until they are just tender, usually about 7-8 minutes. Drain the noodles and set them aside for later.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, using a spoon to break it apart. Cook until browned and no longer pink, approximately 5-6 minutes.
After the beef is cooked, push it to one side of the skillet. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the other side. Sauté these vegetables until the onion becomes soft and the mushrooms turn golden brown, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetable mix, stirring well to coat everything. Let this cook for an additional minute. Gradually pour in the beef broth while constantly stirring to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if you’re using it), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
In a separate small bowl, whisk the sour cream with a ladle of hot sauce from the skillet to temper it. This step helps to prevent the sour cream from curdling. Lower the heat in the skillet and gently stir in the sour cream mixture. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Fold in the cooked noodles until they are evenly coated with the delicious sauce. If you wish to use peas, this is the time to add them. Heat everything through for another 1-2 minutes.
Finish off by sprinkling with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Time Breakdown

Making Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff doesn’t take long. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep, such as chopping onions and mushrooms, and another 20-25 minutes cooking everything. Overall, you can prepare this comforting meal in about 30-35 minutes!

How to serve Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Serving Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff is as easy as it is enjoyable. It’s best served hot straight from the skillet, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Offer it alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the richness of the stroganoff. Some people even enjoy serving it with crusty bread on the side, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

How to store Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff

If you happen to have leftovers, storing Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff is straightforward. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so gently on the stovetop over low heat. You may want to add a splash of beef broth or water to help loosen the sauce as it reheats.

Tips to make Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff

To elevate your Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff even further, consider the following tips. First, using higher-fat ground beef like 80/20 helps ensure the meat remains juicy and flavorful. Second, don’t skip the sautéing step for the onions and mushrooms; this step adds depth and enhances the overall flavor. If you’d like a bit of extra creaminess, adding a few tablespoons of heavy cream can take your sauce to the next level. Lastly, for those who enjoy a little more kick, adding a sprinkle of paprika can add an interesting twist to the flavor profile.

Variation

Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff is versatile and adaptable. If you’d like to go meatless or try different proteins, ground turkey or chicken can work as well. For a veggie-forward version, consider adding spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the mix. You can also swap the egg noodles for alternatives like whole grain pasta or even serve the stroganoff over mashed potatoes or rice for a delightful change.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

A serving of Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff typically contains approximately 475 calories, with around 24 grams of protein, 26 grams of carbohydrates, and 34 grams of fat, depending on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. It is always a good idea to adjust ingredients based on dietary needs, especially if you are looking to lower calories or fat content.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stroganoff ahead of time. However, the noodles are best cooked fresh. Store the sauce separately and combine them when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff?
It’s advisable to freeze the sauce alone without the noodles. Once it’s cooled down, store it in airtight containers. When reheating, just cook fresh noodles to serve alongside the sauce.

3. What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and adds a lovely tang to the dish. You can also use heavy cream for added richness if you prefer.

With this guide to making and enjoying Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff, you’re well on your way to creating a beloved dish that’s sure to satisfy both your cravings and those of your guests. Dive into this cozy meal and relish the delightful flavors!