The Best Hamburger Stroganoff Recipe

There's nothing quite like the savory aroma of Hamburger Stroganoff filling your kitchen on a busy weeknight. This creamy, hearty dish combines tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of egg noodles. It's comfort food at its finest, ready in under 30 minutes.

I first discovered Hamburger Stroganoff when I needed a quick dinner idea that would also use up some ground beef I had on hand. Since then, it’s become one of our most beloved weeknight meals, loved by both kids and adults alike. Now, let's dive in and see why this recipe has won so many hearts!

Why You'll Love This Hamburger Stroganoff

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight dinner. This Hamburger Stroganoff isn't just delicious – it's a game-changer for busy cooks everywhere.

First off, you won’t believe how quick and easy it is to put together. With only 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s the perfect dish for those hectic evenings when everyone is hungry, and time is tight. Even on the busiest of nights, you can enjoy a meal that feels homemade and full of love.

Your wallet will thank you, too. This recipe uses budget-friendly ground beef and pantry staples, keeping your grocery bill low while still delivering rich, satisfying flavors. Who says you need to splurge to eat like royalty?

This dish is a hit with the whole family, even picky eaters. The creamy sauce, mild seasonings, and tender noodles make it a meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to customize with veggies or herbs you have on hand, adding your personal touch to this classic.

Best of all, it's a one-pot wonder. Fewer dirty dishes mean less time cleaning up and more time relaxing with your loved ones. Once you’ve tried it, Hamburger Stroganoff is sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Hamburger Stroganoff lies in its simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The ground beef is the star of the show. I recommend using 85% lean ground beef, which has just the right amount of fat to keep things juicy and flavorful without being greasy. If you prefer a leaner option, feel free to drain off any excess fat after browning.

Mushrooms add an earthy, umami depth that perfectly complements the beef. You can use white button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms, depending on what’s available. If your family isn’t a fan of mushrooms, you can leave them out, but they truly elevate the flavor profile.

The sour cream brings that iconic Stroganoff tang and creamy texture. Be sure to use full-fat sour cream for the richest, silkiest sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt, though the taste will be a bit sharper.

Egg noodles are the perfect pairing for this dish. Their wide, curly shape catches and holds the sauce beautifully. While egg noodles are traditional, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand – though nothing beats the texture of classic egg noodles.

For a touch of seasoning, you’ll need garlic, onion, and a pinch of paprika. These simple spices bring warmth and depth to the dish without overpowering the other flavors. Finally, don’t skip the beef broth – it forms the foundation of the sauce, providing a savory backbone that ties everything together.

To make the cooking process easier, you’ll want a large skillet or Dutch oven. Using a wide pan ensures the beef cooks evenly and gives you plenty of space to mix everything together later.

How To Make This Hamburger Stroganoff

Creating this mouthwatering Hamburger Stroganoff is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pan, drain it off, but leave just a bit to add flavor.

Once the beef is cooked, add finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the base flavor of your Stroganoff, so don’t rush it.

Next, add your sliced mushrooms. Cook them until they’re tender and have released their moisture, about 5 minutes. The mushrooms should be nicely browned, adding a rich, savory depth to your sauce. At this point, sprinkle in the paprika for a hint of warmth.

Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. While the sauce is simmering, cook your egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.

Finally, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Make sure the heat is not too high, or the sour cream may curdle. Mix everything well to create a creamy, luscious sauce that coats the beef and mushrooms. Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet, tossing until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.

Serve your Hamburger Stroganoff hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 30 minutes of total time – perfect for a quick, comforting meal that feels special.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though that’s rare with this dish!), storing them is easy. Transfer the cooled Hamburger Stroganoff into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious.

For longer storage, you can freeze it. Make sure the Stroganoff is fully cooled, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, add the Stroganoff to a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You may need to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken in the fridge or freezer. Microwaving is another option, but be sure to stir frequently to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This Hamburger Stroganoff recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: If you’d like to change things up, try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can even use crumbled tofu or lentils for a vegetarian twist.
• Add extra veggies: To boost the nutrition, consider adding chopped bell peppers, peas, or spinach. Simply stir them in when you add the mushrooms or near the end of cooking.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta or serve the Stroganoff over rice or mashed potatoes. Be sure to check your beef broth to ensure it’s gluten-free as well.
• Lighten it up: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and opt for a leaner cut of ground beef. You can also add a splash of milk or a low-fat cream alternative to keep the sauce rich without the extra calories.
• Amp up the flavor: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard for an extra flavor boost. These ingredients add complexity and a hint of tanginess.

No matter how you make it, this Hamburger Stroganoff is sure to please. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust it to suit your taste – you might just discover your own signature version!

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