Imagine the rich aroma of savory ground beef mingling with the earthy scent of mushrooms and the comforting fragrance of onions gently sautéing in a warm skillet.
Picture the luscious, creamy sauce enveloping tender egg noodles, with a hint of fresh parsley adding a pop of color and freshness. This dish is a true embodiment of comfort, offering a sense of warmth and satisfaction with every bite.
Ground Beef Stroganoff holds a special place in my heart, as it saved me one hectic weeknight when time was short but the need for a delicious, hearty meal was high.
It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday suppers, bringing the family together around the dinner table.
The simplicity and speed of preparation make it a go-to recipe when life gets a little too fast-paced. Ready? Let’s cook and bring this comforting classic to life!
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with a rich, creamy sauce and savory beef.
- Utilizes pantry staples like flour, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Cooks quickly, ready in just 30 minutes for a weeknight meal.
- Offers flexibility to adjust seasoning and creaminess to personal taste.
- Freezes beautifully for convenient future meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef — choose lean for less grease.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil — extra virgin enhances flavor.
- 1 medium onion, diced — yellow onions are preferred for sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced — fresh garlic for best aroma.
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced — cremini mushrooms add earthiness.
- 1 tablespoon flour — all-purpose works well to thicken sauce.
- 1 cup beef broth — low sodium allows better control over seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce — adds depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup sour cream — full-fat for a richer consistency.
- Salt and pepper to taste — freshly ground for more flavor.
- 12 ounces egg noodles — wide noodles hold the sauce better.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped — for garnish and freshness.
Step-by-Step Method
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough to shimmer before adding any ingredients. This step is vital for evenly cooking the ground beef and vegetables, as it helps prevent sticking and guarantees even browning.
Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet once the oil is hot. Use a wooden spoon to break the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks. Stir frequently to brown the meat evenly, making certain no pink remains.
Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, keeping the drippings for added flavor in the next steps.
Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the remaining drippings. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent, releasing its sweet aroma. This process usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent burning and guarantee even cooking.
Cook the Mushrooms
Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they become tender and slightly golden. This should take about 5 minutes.
Allow the mushrooms to release their moisture and absorb the flavors from the skillet. Stir occasionally to guarantee even cooking and avoid sticking.
Thicken the Sauce
Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture, stirring until well combined. Gradually add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, continuing to stir constantly.
This process will thicken the sauce. Make sure there are no lumps and the sauce reaches a smooth consistency. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to develop flavor.
Combine and Season
Return the cooked beef to the skillet, stirring until it’s well coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream.
Mix thoroughly until the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed. Let the mixture gently heat through without boiling.
Cook the Egg Noodles
While preparing the stroganoff, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Use a large pot of boiling salted water for the best results.
Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly. This step guarantees that your noodles are ready to serve alongside the stroganoff.
Serve and Garnish
Serve the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and a touch of freshness.
The parsley not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle herbal note to the dish. Enjoy your meal hot, savoring the rich and creamy flavors.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangy, lower-fat option.
- If you’re avoiding gluten, opt for gluten-free flour and noodles.
- Replace Worcestershire sauce with tamari or soy sauce for a different flavor profile.
You Must Know
- Brown Beef Thoroughly: Confirm the ground beef is cooked until fully browned to build a rich flavor base for your stroganoff.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Cook the onions until translucent and garlic until fragrant to enhance the dish’s aromatic foundation.
- Add Flour Gradually: Sprinkle flour over the mushroom mixture slowly, stirring continuously to prevent lumps and achieve a smooth sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to suit your preference for a well-balanced flavor.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the stroganoff to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together for a more harmonious taste.
Serving Tips
- Pair with a side of green beans or steamed broccoli for added color and nutrients.
- Serve in shallow bowls to showcase the creamy sauce and garnished parsley.
- Accompany with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Complement with a light, crisp salad for a rejuvenating contrast.
- For a rustic touch, serve in a cast-iron skillet straight from the stovetop.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Ground Beef Stroganoff can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For make-ahead convenience, prepare and freeze the dish for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
When reheating, add a bit of broth to maintain the creamy consistency.
Reheating
To gently reheat ground beef stroganoff, use the microwave on low power.
Use the oven at 350°F covered.
Or use the stovetop on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cultural Significance in Russia
Although beef stroganoff is a familiar dish worldwide, its roots are deeply embedded in Russian culture. I find it fascinating how this dish captures the essence of Russian tradition and hospitality.
When I think of beef stroganoff, I imagine:
- Warmth: The comfort of a home-cooked meal shared with family on a cold winter evening.
- Heritage: A recipe passed down through generations, holding stories from the past.
- Celebration: The centerpiece of a festive table, bringing people together in joyous gatherings.
- Innovation: A dish that has evolved yet retains the charm of its aristocratic origins.
Each bite transports me to a place rich with history and warmth, making it more than just a meal—it’s an experience.
Final Thoughts
Why not give this delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff a try and make it your own by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste? It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta Instead of Egg Noodles?
Of course, you can swap out the egg noodles for any pasta you have on hand. I love using fettuccine or penne as they hold the sauce beautifully, adding a delightful twist to the dish. Enjoy experimenting!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make it gluten-free, I’d swap regular flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free pasta instead of egg noodles. Verify all ingredients, like Worcestershire sauce, are certified gluten-free to keep everything safe and delicious.
Is It Possible to Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Beef?
Absolutely, you can swap ground turkey for ground beef! I’ve done it myself, and it’s delicious. Just make certain you season it well, as turkey can be milder. The spices will really make the turkey shine!
What Can I Use as a Dairy-Free Alternative to Sour Cream?
I often swap sour cream with coconut cream or a cashew-based alternative. Both options offer a creamy texture and rich flavor. If you’re after a tangy twist, try adding a splash of lemon juice.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier Without Altering the Main Flavors?
To spice it up without changing the main flavors, I’d add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce. These will give a subtle kick while keeping the original taste intact. Enjoy!
Ground Beef Stroganoff
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Measuring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 clove garlic minced
- 8 ounce mushrooms sliced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 ounce egg noodles
- 2 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Remove the beef and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir until well combined.
- Gradually add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet and stir until well coated with the sauce.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
- Serve the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles and garnish with chopped parsley.
Notes
