Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting dish that brings together creamy sauce, tender egg noodles, and savory ground beef in just 30 minutes. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or any occasion when you crave something hearty yet simple to prepare. Its rich flavors and delightful texture make it a family favorite, and it’s adaptable enough to suit various tastes. Whether served with veggies or garlic toast, this Ground Beef Stroganoff is budget-friendly and delicious, ensuring everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With only 30 minutes needed from start to finish, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of beef broth, butter, and seasonings creates a deep, satisfying taste.
- Versatile Dish: Easily customize with ingredients like mushrooms or Worcestershire sauce to suit your palate.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the creamy sauce and noodles, making it a hit with the whole family.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients while still offering incredible flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To make Ground Beef Stroganoff efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items you will need to prepare this dish properly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Pot
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A large skillet allows for even cooking of the ground beef and easy mixing of ingredients.
- Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth roux and ensuring there are no lumps in the sauce.
Ingredients
For the Noodles
- 6 ounces egg noodles
For the Beef Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Cook the egg noodles according to package directions in boiling water. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat afterward.
Step 3: Make the Roux
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add beef broth while whisking until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 4: Add Milk and Seasonings
Slowly whisk in milk, cooking until smooth (5-7 minutes). Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked noodles and browned beef into the sauce; mix well. Incorporate sour cream before serving for added creaminess.
Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Stroganoff!
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground Beef Stroganoff is not just a meal; it’s an experience that you can enhance with various serving suggestions. Pairing it with the right sides and garnishes can elevate your dish and satisfy everyone at the table. Here are some creative ways to serve this comforting classic.
Garnish Ideas
- Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess and tang.
- Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that complements the dish well.
Side Pairings
- Steamed Asparagus: Crisp-tender asparagus adds a nutritious element and balances the richness of the stroganoff.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette dressing refreshes the palate alongside this hearty meal.
Meal Prep Containers
- Portion Control: Use meal prep containers to store leftovers, making for easy reheating during busy days.
- Freezing Options: Consider freezing portions for quick future meals; just reheat and enjoy!
How to Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff
To achieve an outstanding Ground Beef Stroganoff, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.
- Use Quality Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option while still maintaining flavor.
- Don’t Rush the Roux: Take time to cook your roux until golden brown, which enhances the overall taste of the sauce.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust garlic powder, onion powder, or black pepper according to your preference.
- Add Mushrooms: For added depth, sauté sliced mushrooms along with the ground beef; they pair perfectly in stroganoff.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Serving Ground Beef Stroganoff with complementary side dishes makes for a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options that work well together:
- Buttered Noodles: A simple yet satisfying choice that echoes the main dish’s flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, balancing out the creamy sauce.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the rich stroganoff.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
- Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf can serve as another base for your stroganoff.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted or sautéed Brussels sprouts add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Ground Beef Stroganoff can be simple, but a few common mistakes might ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Using low-quality beef: Low-grade ground beef can lead to a tough texture and less flavor. Choose high-quality ground beef for the best results.
- Not seasoning properly: Skipping salt or using insufficient spices can make the dish bland. Season adequately and adjust flavors to suit your taste.
- Overcooking the noodles: Overcooked egg noodles can become mushy in the sauce. Cook them al dente for a better texture.
- Neglecting to whisk the roux: Failing to whisk the butter and flour mixture thoroughly can lead to lumps in your sauce. Whisk continuously until smooth before adding liquids.
- Skipping the sour cream: Omitting sour cream will result in a missing creamy texture. Always add it for that rich finish that defines stroganoff.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.
Freezing Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Use parchment paper between layers if stacking multiple containers.
Reheating Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warm.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Ground Beef Stroganoff.
Can I use other types of meat for Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork if you prefer different proteins.
What kind of noodles are best for Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Egg noodles are traditional, but you can also use wide pasta or even gluten-free alternatives if needed.
How do I make Ground Beef Stroganoff gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and ensure that your broth is also gluten-free. Substitute regular noodles with gluten-free pasta.
Can I add vegetables to Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers enhance flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the beef.
How long does it take to prepare Ground Beef Stroganoff?
The entire process takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick meal option!
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is the perfect blend of creamy sauce and hearty ingredients that everyone loves. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite veggies or serve alongside garlic bread. It’s an easy meal that will quickly become a family favorite!
Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delightful and comforting dish that combines creamy sauce, tender egg noodles, and savory ground beef, all ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a hearty meal, this recipe is adaptable to various tastes while remaining budget-friendly. Whether you enjoy it with steamed vegetables or warm garlic bread, the rich flavors and creamy texture make it a family favorite that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 6 ounces egg noodles
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 1/4 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for 6-8 minutes; drain excess fat.
- Melt butter in the same skillet, whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add beef broth while stirring until thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Whisk in milk until smooth (5-7 minutes), then stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
- Combine cooked noodles and browned beef into the sauce; mix well. Add sour cream before serving for extra creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
