Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

There's something incredibly comforting about a warm plate of Ground Beef Stroganoff on a busy evening. With tender ground beef, savory mushrooms, and a creamy sauce served over a bed of egg noodles, this dish delivers hearty flavors with minimal effort.

I first made this stroganoff recipe when I was short on time but wanted something homemade and satisfying. It has since become a weeknight staple that everyone in my family loves. With its quick prep, budget-friendly ingredients, and rich taste, you'll find yourself making this again and again.

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special and how to make it a new favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stroganoff

Get ready to fall in love with this easy and delicious recipe. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it’s also packed with flavor and perfect for busy schedules.

First off, it’s incredibly quick and convenient. From start to finish, this recipe takes just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights when time is tight but you still crave something homemade.

Another reason to adore this dish? Affordability. Ground beef, mushrooms, and pantry staples like egg noodles and sour cream come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and budget-conscious. It’s proof that delicious food doesn’t have to break the bank.

This recipe is also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or entertaining guests, the creamy, savory flavors appeal to everyone. Plus, it’s easy to double the recipe if you’re feeding a larger group.

Finally, it’s versatile. You can easily swap ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs, from using ground turkey to opting for gluten-free noodles. This stroganoff adapts beautifully, no matter what you have in your kitchen.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to this stroganoff’s irresistible flavor lies in its simple, well-balanced ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need:

• Ground Beef: Opt for an 80/20 blend for the best balance of flavor and richness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too.
• Mushrooms: Button or cremini mushrooms add a deep, earthy flavor to the dish. Be sure to slice them thinly so they cook evenly.
• Onions and Garlic: These aromatics create a flavorful base, adding depth to the creamy sauce.
• Beef Broth: A good-quality broth enhances the savory flavor of the dish. You can use low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Sour Cream: This is the key to achieving that velvety, tangy sauce. For a lighter version, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt.
• Egg Noodles: The perfect vehicle for soaking up all that luscious sauce. If you prefer, you can use rice, mashed potatoes, or even zoodles as an alternative base.

You’ll also need pantry staples like butter, flour (for thickening the sauce), and seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika. No special equipment is required – just a large skillet and a pot for cooking the noodles.

How to Make This Ground Beef Stroganoff

Creating this comforting dish is as easy as can be. Here’s how to make it step by step:

Start by boiling a large pot of water for your egg noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside. While the noodles cook, you can get started on the stroganoff sauce.

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside, leaving behind any rendered fat.

Add a pat of butter to the skillet, followed by the sliced mushrooms and diced onions. Sauté these until they’re tender and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. This step helps thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir in the sour cream, allowing it to meld into the sauce. Be careful not to let the sauce boil, as this can cause the sour cream to curdle.

Finally, toss the cooked egg noodles into the skillet, ensuring they’re evenly coated in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

This entire process takes about 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on hectic evenings.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This ground beef stroganoff stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to maintain its texture and flavor.
• Freezer: You can freeze the stroganoff for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the sauce and noodles separately to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy upon reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the stroganoff in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid using high heat, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some creative twists to try:

• Protein Swap: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a healthier or vegetarian option.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free noodles and use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce.
• Vegetarian: Omit the meat and double the mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based stroganoff. You can also add a splash of soy sauce or miso paste for extra umami.
• Lighter Version: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and leaner protein like ground chicken to cut down on calories.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a little heat.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own – you can’t go wrong!

There you have it: an Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff that’s creamy, comforting, and ready to impress. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or looking for a quick, satisfying meal, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try tonight and watch it become a new favorite!

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