Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delicious, creamy, and hearty dish that has won the hearts of many home cooks. It’s quick to prepare and makes for the perfect weeknight meal. This recipe will guide you through the process of making a savory and creamy ground beef stroganoff that’s sure to please everyone at the dinner table. If you're looking to create the ultimate comfort food, stick around, and by the end of this article, you’ll have everything you need to make a crowd-pleasing stroganoff! So grab your apron, and let’s get started.
What Is Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Ground beef stroganoff is a variation of the traditional Russian stroganoff, which is typically made with thinly sliced beef strips. This version substitutes ground beef for the sliced meat, making it quicker to cook while still delivering that same creamy, tangy, and savory flavor. The dish is typically served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes and is known for its combination of beef, mushrooms, onions, and sour cream. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who loves comfort food with minimal prep time.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff
To ensure you get that perfect stroganoff flavor, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef (80-85% lean works best for good flavor and texture)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini work great)
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoon butter (for sautéing)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
- Egg noodles or your choice of starch for serving (rice or mashed potatoes can also be used)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff Sauce
The sauce is what makes stroganoff so creamy and flavorful. Here's what you'll need specifically for the sauce:
- 1 ½ cups beef broth – The base of the sauce, which adds a rich and meaty flavor.
- ½ cup sour cream – Provides that signature tangy creaminess.
- 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour – This helps thicken the sauce to the right consistency.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds depth and savory richness.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – For a slight kick of tang and flavor complexity.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – To season the sauce perfectly.
Substitutions and Variations
While ground beef stroganoff is already quite adaptable, here are some common substitutions and variations you can try to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You may want to add extra spices or seasoning since these meats tend to be milder.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils. You can also use hearty vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower as a meat replacement.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce and pair with gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Greek Yogurt: You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a healthier, protein-packed version without sacrificing creaminess.
- Dairy-Free Option: If you’re avoiding dairy, use dairy-free sour cream and butter. Many plant-based alternatives, like coconut cream, can replicate the richness of traditional ingredients.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, add vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers. These can be sautéed with the mushrooms and onions.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making ground beef stroganoff is a straightforward process, but to ensure the perfect outcome, follow these step-by-step instructions carefully.
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by chopping the onion and garlic, and slicing the mushrooms. Set these aside so that everything is ready when you start cooking. It’s helpful to have everything prepped and ready to go because this recipe moves quickly once you get started.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season the meat with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the beef until browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan, then transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the pan. Cook the mushrooms until they release their moisture and start to brown, which should take another 4-5 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Once the vegetables are cooked, sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly. This step helps to thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked ground beef to the pan and mix it into the sauce. Add the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, stirring well to incorporate. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Stir in the Sour Cream
Turn off the heat and stir in the sour cream until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the ground beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making ground beef stroganoff:
- Overcooking the Beef: Ground beef can become tough if overcooked. Make sure to cook it until just browned and avoid overcooking once you return it to the sauce.
- Lumpy Sauce: Adding the flour to the vegetables before the liquid helps to prevent lumps. Be sure to stir constantly while adding the broth.
- Curdled Sour Cream: Sour cream can curdle if the sauce is too hot when you add it. Make sure to remove the pan from the heat before stirring in the sour cream.
- Skimping on Seasoning: This dish relies on rich flavors, so don’t forget to season well with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Ground beef stroganoff is a casual dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be presented beautifully. Here are some tips for serving and presentation:
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff
Serve ground beef stroganoff over a bed of freshly cooked egg noodles, fluffy rice, or creamy mashed potatoes. If you want to get creative, try serving it over cauliflower rice or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option. A side of steamed vegetables like green beans or a simple green salad works well to balance the richness of the dish.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a touch of color and freshness to the dish.
- Serve in a Shallow Bowl: Presenting the stroganoff in a shallow, wide bowl makes it look more elegant and gives more surface area for the sauce to be displayed.
- Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: For a bit of extra flair, add a small dollop of sour cream on top of each serving and swirl it slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Crispy Onion Topping: Add a few crispy fried onions on top for an extra crunchy texture.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: Ground beef stroganoff is an excellent make-ahead dish. The flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge. Just reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Double the Recipe: If you’re cooking for a crowd or want leftovers, this recipe easily doubles. You can also freeze leftovers for up to three months.
- Use High-Quality Beef Broth: Since the broth is a key ingredient in the sauce, using a high-quality beef broth or stock will significantly enhance the flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze ground beef stroganoff?
Yes, ground beef stroganoff freezes well. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep for up to three months. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
How do I prevent the sour cream from curdling?
The key to preventing curdling is to remove the pan from heat before adding the sour cream. Also, ensure the sauce isn’t too hot when you stir it in, as high temperatures can cause the sour cream to curdle.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, ground beef stroganoff can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit more broth or water if the sauce has thickened.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt, crème fraîche, or a dairy-free alternative for a healthier or lactose-free version.
Conclusion
Ground beef stroganoff is a hearty, creamy, and delicious meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. This versatile recipe allows for substitutions and variations, making it easy to tailor to your dietary needs or personal preferences. By following the steps in this guide, you’ll have a rich and flavorful stroganoff ready in no time. So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy the comforting goodness of this timeless dish!
PrintGround Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a quick, delicious meal with creamy sour cream, tender mushrooms, and flavorful ground beef served over noodles. It's the perfect weeknight dinner and comfort food. Ideal for families craving rich flavors, this easy dish can be on the table in less than 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Russian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tbsp butter
- Parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add butter, mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add beef broth, stirring until smooth. Simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
- Remove from heat and stir in sour cream. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine sauce with cooked noodles. Garnish with parsley and serve.
Notes
- For added richness, use heavy cream in place of sour cream.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
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