Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s quick to prepare, this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is exactly what you need! Made with tender ground beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sour cream sauce, this easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a budget-friendly version of the traditional beef stroganoff, which typically uses more expensive cuts of beef, but with all the same rich flavors. Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal the whole family will love.

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a simplified version of classic beef stroganoff, a Russian dish traditionally made with strips of beef, mushrooms, and onions in a creamy sauce. This version uses ground beef instead of steak, making it quicker and more affordable, but just as rich and flavorful. The dish typically features mushrooms, onions, garlic, and a luscious sour cream-based sauce. It’s served over egg noodles, but can also be enjoyed with rice, mashed potatoes, or even on its own.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious and easy ground beef stroganoff:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 works best)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added depth of flavor)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• 8 oz egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for sautéing)

Substitutions and Variations

This ground beef stroganoff recipe is very flexible, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Ground turkey or chicken: For a lighter version, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You’ll get a similar texture with less fat.
• Vegetarian option: Use a plant-based ground meat substitute or sautéed lentils instead of beef, and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce, and pair it with gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Low-carb/keto option: Skip the flour and serve the beef stroganoff over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb option.
• Add more veggies: Add diced bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the dish for added color, texture, and nutrients.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Egg Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
4. Add the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture, stirring to coat the vegetables evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the flour has absorbed the moisture.
5. Add the Broth and Seasonings: Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking or stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), paprika, and more salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, until it starts to thicken.
6. Combine the Beef and Sauce: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
7. Add the Sour Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream, making sure it’s fully incorporated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and heated through (but do not let it boil). Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
8. Serve: Serve the ground beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and enjoy!

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

• Step 1: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
• Step 2: Brown the ground beef in a skillet, then set it aside.
• Step 3: Sauté onions, mushrooms, and garlic until softened.
• Step 4: Stir in flour and cook briefly before adding beef broth and seasonings.
• Step 5: Simmer the sauce until thickened, then stir in the cooked ground beef.
• Step 6: Add sour cream for a creamy finish, and serve over egg noodles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the beef: Ground beef can become dry if overcooked. Brown it just until it’s no longer pink, then remove it from the skillet while you prepare the rest of the dish.
• Curdling the sour cream: To avoid curdling, don’t boil the sauce after adding the sour cream. Keep the heat low and stir gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
• Not thickening the sauce properly: Be sure to cook the flour for a minute or two to remove the raw flour taste before adding the broth. This step helps create a smooth, thickened sauce.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Ground beef stroganoff is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some ideas for serving and presentation:

• Serve over egg noodles: The traditional pairing for stroganoff is egg noodles, but you can also serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
• Side dishes: Serve ground beef stroganoff with a simple green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Individual plates: Serve the ground beef stroganoff over a bed of egg noodles on individual plates, garnished with fresh parsley.
• Family-style: Place the stroganoff in a large serving bowl with egg noodles or rice on the side, allowing everyone to help themselves.
• With crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to mop up the creamy sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Layered bowls: Create a layered look by serving the stroganoff in deep bowls with a base of egg noodles, then spoon the beef and sauce over the top.
• Cast-iron skillet: For a rustic presentation, serve the stroganoff directly from a cast-iron skillet, garnished with fresh herbs.
• With a pop of color: Add color and texture by serving the dish with a side salad topped with sliced cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tips

• Use full-fat sour cream: For the creamiest sauce, use full-fat sour cream. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt, but the flavor will be slightly tangier.
• Add mushrooms early: Cooking the mushrooms first ensures they release their moisture and develop a deeper, richer flavor.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and paprika to suit your preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can make the ground beef stroganoff ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Q: Can I freeze ground beef stroganoff?
A: Yes, stroganoff freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: How do I keep the sauce from curdling?
A: To prevent the sauce from curdling, don’t boil the sauce after adding the sour cream. Keep the heat low and stir gently until the sauce is heated through but not boiling.

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream, but the flavor will be a bit tangier. Use full-fat Greek yogurt for the best texture.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is the perfect way to enjoy a comforting, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy, savory sauce, it’s a dish that’s sure to please the whole family. Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, and garnish with fresh herbs for a meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this ground beef stroganoff is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation!

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