Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Looking for a delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further than this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe! This hearty dish combines tender ground beef with a creamy, savory sauce and is served over warm egg noodles or rice. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is simple to follow and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Keep reading for the full recipe, substitutions, variations, and expert tips on how to perfect your Ground Beef Stroganoff!

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a classic variation of the traditional beef stroganoff, a Russian dish that typically features thinly sliced beef cooked in a creamy sauce with sour cream, mushrooms, and onions. In this version, ground beef is used instead of strips of beef, making the recipe more budget-friendly and quicker to prepare. The result is a rich, flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with noodles or rice, making it a go-to comfort food for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• 1 lb ground beef – Choose lean or regular ground beef depending on your preference.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic gives the stroganoff a wonderful aromatic flavor.
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced – White or cremini mushrooms work best, but any variety will do.
• 2 tablespoon butter – For sautéing the onions and mushrooms.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning.
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour – This will thicken the sauce.
• 2 cups beef broth – The base for the sauce, creating a rich and hearty flavor.
• 1 cup sour cream – For creaminess and tang, the signature component of stroganoff.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds a slight tang and depth to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – Boosts the umami and gives the sauce extra richness.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Egg noodles or rice – For serving. Egg noodles are the traditional choice, but you can also serve stroganoff over rice or mashed potatoes.
• Chopped fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish and a pop of color.

Substitutions and Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
• Greek Yogurt: For a healthier swap, replace sour cream with Greek yogurt. This will reduce the fat content while still giving the sauce a creamy texture.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the ground beef for plant-based ground meat or lentils. You can also skip the meat entirely and add more mushrooms for a meaty texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce, and serve over gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat in your dishes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff:

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion, Garlic, and Mushrooms

In the same skillet, add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter is melted, add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the garlic and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and the onions are golden.

Step 3: Add the Flour and Broth

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture, stirring to combine. This will help thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 4: Stir in the Creamy Ingredients

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until everything is well combined and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet and stir to coat the meat in the sauce.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Taste the stroganoff and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a splash of additional broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Serve the stroganoff over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

How to Cook Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prep the ingredients: Start by chopping the onions, slicing the mushrooms, and mincing the garlic so everything is ready to go when you start cooking.
2. Brown the ground beef: Use a large skillet or sauté pan, ensuring the meat browns evenly. This adds a deep, savory flavor to the dish.
3. Sauté the veggies: Onions, garlic, and mushrooms form the base of the sauce, so cook them until they’re golden and fragrant.
4. Thicken the sauce: Adding flour to the vegetables creates a roux that thickens the sauce. Stir it well before adding the broth.
5. Add sour cream and mustard: These ingredients give the dish its creamy texture and tangy flavor. Make sure the heat is low to prevent curdling when you add the sour cream.
6. Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer briefly to ensure all the flavors meld together.
7. Serve and enjoy: Pour the stroganoff over your choice of noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes and enjoy!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not browning the meat properly: Browning adds flavor. If you rush this step or crowd the pan, the beef will steam instead of sear, leaving you with bland meat.
• Skipping the flour: The flour is key to thickening the sauce. Without it, your stroganoff may end up too thin.
• Overcooking the sour cream: Make sure to reduce the heat before adding the sour cream. If it boils, it can separate and become grainy.
• Using low-fat substitutes incorrectly: While Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream can work, they can sometimes curdle. To avoid this, temper them by mixing a little warm sauce into the yogurt before adding it to the pan.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a hearty, comforting dish that deserves to be presented with care. Here are some serving and presentation tips to elevate your meal:

• Serve over wide egg noodles: Traditional and delicious, egg noodles absorb the rich sauce beautifully. Cook them just before serving so they’re fresh and warm.
• Rice or mashed potatoes: For a variation, serve the stroganoff over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes, which complement the savory sauce just as well as noodles.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill brightens the dish and adds a burst of color.
• Add a side of vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed green beans, broccoli, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Rustic Look: Serve in a deep, wide dish or bowl, allowing the sauce to pool around the noodles or rice. Add a sprinkle of parsley for a pop of color.
• Family-Style Serving: Present the stroganoff in a large skillet or casserole dish, so everyone can help themselves at the table.
• Individual Plates: For a more formal presentation, portion the stroganoff on individual plates with a side of vegetables and garnish each plate with fresh herbs.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tips

• Use high-quality beef broth: The flavor of your sauce largely depends on the broth. Choose a rich, flavorful broth for the best results.
• Don't overcook the noodles: If serving with noodles, cook them al dente so they maintain their texture when mixed with the sauce.
• Season as you go: Layering seasoning throughout the cooking process will give your dish more depth of flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the stroganoff in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

Q: Can I freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff?
A: Yes, you can freeze it! Let the stroganoff cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I use instead of sour cream?
A: You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or cream cheese. Just be sure to temper them by adding a little warm sauce before stirring them into the dish.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
A: To avoid curdling, reduce the heat before adding the sour cream, and stir it in slowly. Do not let the sauce boil after adding the sour cream.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners. With its rich, creamy sauce, savory beef, and tender noodles, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you stick with the traditional ingredients or experiment with some of the substitutions and variations mentioned, you’ll end up with a hearty and satisfying meal. Be sure to follow the tips and tricks outlined here for the best results, and don’t forget to make it your own! Happy cooking!

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