Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting dish that’s hearty, delicious, and easy to make. With its savory combination of tender ground beef, creamy mushroom sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe is a staple for family dinners or any weeknight meal. If you’ve been searching for the perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe, you’re in the right place! Read on to discover everything you need to know to make this rich and flavorful dish. From the ingredients list to cooking tips and serving ideas, this article will guide you through every step of the way. Keep reading for the ultimate Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe that will become a favorite in your home!

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a variation of the traditional Russian dish Beef Stroganoff, which typically uses strips of beef sautéed with onions and mushrooms in a creamy sauce. In this version, ground beef replaces the beef strips, making it a more affordable and quicker option. This dish is commonly served over egg noodles or rice and is known for its creamy, savory sauce made with sour cream and beef broth. The ground beef version is just as delicious and retains the same rich flavors but is more accessible for home cooks looking for a quick and easy meal.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff:

• 1 pound ground beef – Use lean ground beef for less fat and grease.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a sweet and savory flavor to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall flavor.
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced – For that classic earthy stroganoff flavor.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 ½ cups beef broth – Provides a rich base for the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Adds a depth of flavor to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Gives a slight tangy kick.
• ½ teaspoon paprika – Adds warmth and subtle spice.
• ¾ cup sour cream – For the creamy texture and classic stroganoff flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season the dish to your liking.
• 8 ounces egg noodles or rice – To serve the stroganoff over.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color.

Substitutions and Variations

While the traditional ingredients listed above make a delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and serve over gluten-free noodles or rice.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with a meatless alternative like lentils or plant-based crumbles.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream.
• Add Vegetables: Boost the nutrition by adding veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini into the mix.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Making Ground Beef Stroganoff is straightforward, and with the following step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, prepare your ingredients. Dice the onion, slice the mushrooms, and mince the garlic. This will make the cooking process faster and more organized.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break up the meat as it cooks with a spatula, ensuring even browning. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat if needed and set the meat aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Flour

Sprinkle the flour over the cooked vegetables and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This step helps thicken the sauce later on.

Step 5: Add Broth and Seasonings

Slowly pour the beef broth into the skillet while stirring to avoid lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 6: Simmer the Sauce

Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until it begins to thicken slightly. The flour will help the sauce achieve the perfect consistency.

Step 7: Stir in the Sour Cream

Once the sauce has thickened, lower the heat and stir in the sour cream. Make sure it’s fully incorporated, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to boil the sauce after adding the sour cream, as this can cause it to curdle.

Step 8: Combine Beef and Sauce

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, stirring it into the sauce until everything is well combined and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 9: Cook the Noodles

While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles or rice according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 10: Serve

Spoon the Ground Beef Stroganoff over the cooked noodles or rice, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few common mistakes people make when preparing Ground Beef Stroganoff, and how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Beef: Ground beef can become tough if overcooked. Cook it just until browned, and avoid letting it dry out.
• Curdling the Sauce: Adding sour cream while the sauce is too hot can cause it to curdle. Be sure to lower the heat before adding the sour cream.
• Skipping the Flour: The flour is crucial for thickening the sauce. Without it, your stroganoff may end up too runny.
• Not Sautéing the Vegetables Properly: Make sure to sauté the onions and mushrooms until they’re soft and tender for the best flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

To make your Ground Beef Stroganoff even more appetizing, consider these serving and presentation tips:

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Serve Over Egg Noodles: The classic way to serve stroganoff is over wide egg noodles. Their texture pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
• Try Mashed Potatoes: For a change, serve the stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes. This adds an extra layer of comfort to the dish.
• Rice: If you prefer rice, it works wonderfully with stroganoff and soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a slice of crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce on the plate.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill not only adds color but also a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
• Serve in a Shallow Bowl: Present the dish in a shallow bowl for a restaurant-quality appearance.
• Add a Lemon Wedge: For a touch of brightness, you can serve a small wedge of lemon on the side. A light squeeze can bring out the flavors even more.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tips

To ensure your stroganoff turns out perfect every time, here are a few additional tips:

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 85% lean ground beef or higher to avoid a greasy dish.
• Don’t Skimp on the Mushrooms: Mushrooms are a key ingredient in stroganoff, adding umami flavor and texture. Be sure to use fresh mushrooms for the best results.
• Make it Ahead: Ground Beef Stroganoff reheats well, so you can make it ahead of time and simply reheat it when ready to serve.
• Balance the Sauce: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of beef broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it a little longer to reduce and thicken.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I Freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Yes, you can freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. It’s best to freeze the beef and sauce separately from the noodles or rice. When reheating, add a little extra broth or sour cream to restore the creamy texture.

How Long Does Ground Beef Stroganoff Last in the Fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, Ground Beef Stroganoff will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I Make Ground Beef Stroganoff Ahead of Time?

Yes, Ground Beef Stroganoff can be made ahead of time. Just reheat it on the stovetop over low heat and stir in a little extra sour cream if needed.

What Can I Use Instead of Sour Cream?

If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt or even cream cheese as a substitute. Both options will give you a creamy texture, though Greek yogurt will have a tangier flavor.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delicious, hearty, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy sauce, flavorful ground beef, and tender noodles make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or cozy weekends at home. With the easy-to-follow instructions in this guide, you’ll be able to make this classic dish with confidence. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or enjoying it on your own, Ground Beef Stroganoff is sure to be a hit every time. Don’t forget to experiment with variations and substitutions to make it your own. Happy cooking!

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