Ground Beef Stroganoff
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
A creamy, savory dish featuring tender ground beef and mushrooms in a rich sauce, served over noodles.
Ground beef stroganoff is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. With a blend of mushrooms, sour cream, and spices, this dish is perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that clings to every noodle
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
- Comfort food that warms the soul
The Origins of Stroganoff
Beef Stroganoff has a rich history that dates back to 19th century Russia. Originally, this dish featured sautéed pieces of beef served in a creamy sauce, often enjoyed with a side of rice or potatoes. As it spread across Europe and into America, variations began to emerge, with ground beef and noodles becoming a popular combination. The comforting nature of this dish has made it a staple in many households, especially during colder months when a warm meal is most appreciated.
The use of ground beef in Stroganoff not only makes it more accessible but also significantly reduces cooking time, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners. The creamy sauce, enriched with mushrooms and spices, transforms an ordinary meal into a delightful experience that echoes the traditional flavors of the classic dish. Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, Ground Beef Stroganoff is sure to impress.
Ingredient Spotlight: Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a key ingredient in this Ground Beef Stroganoff, adding depth and umami to the dish. Their unique texture complements the tender ground beef, while their earthy flavor enhances the overall taste profile. Varieties like cremini or button mushrooms work beautifully, but feel free to experiment with wild mushrooms for a gourmet twist.
In addition to their flavor, mushrooms are packed with nutrients, including antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They are low in calories, making them a healthy addition to your meals. Sautéing mushrooms until they are tender allows them to release their natural juices, enriching the sauce and creating a luscious, creamy texture that coats the noodles perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
Ground Beef Stroganoff is versatile when it comes to serving options. While it pairs beautifully with egg noodles, consider trying it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives on top adds a burst of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
For a complete meal, serve your Stroganoff with a side salad featuring mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad balances the creamy richness of the Stroganoff, creating a well-rounded dining experience. Don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce!
Ingredients
For the Stroganoff
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces egg noodles
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to ensure a smooth preparation process.
Instructions
Cook the Noodles
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Brown the Beef
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Add the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
Stir in the Mushrooms
Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
Create the Sauce
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
Add Sour Cream
Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine with Noodles
Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet, stirring until well combined. Serve hot.
Serve the stroganoff over the noodles with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the flavors vibrant, ensure it’s cooled before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent the sauce from thickening too much.
For longer storage, consider freezing the Stroganoff. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes for an easy meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.
Customizing Your Stroganoff
One of the beauties of Ground Beef Stroganoff is its adaptability. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. For those who prefer a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef, while still delivering a hearty flavor.
If you're looking to add more vegetables, consider incorporating spinach, bell peppers, or peas into the mix. These not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a burst of color and texture to your dish. Additionally, you can experiment with different herbs and spices, such as thyme or paprika, to create your unique version of this classic comfort food.
Nutritional Information
Ground Beef Stroganoff is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of nutrients. A typical serving contains protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the noodles, and healthy fats from the sour cream. This combination makes it a satisfying dish that can fuel your day.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider using whole wheat noodles or substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. These small changes can boost the fiber content and reduce calories without sacrificing taste. Enjoy this comforting meal knowing it can be tailored to fit a variety of dietary preferences.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you want a lighter option.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stroganoff ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
→ What can I serve with ground beef stroganoff?
This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
→ Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the stroganoff in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Ground Beef Stroganoff
A creamy, savory dish featuring tender ground beef and mushrooms in a rich sauce, served over noodles.
Created by: Sloane Patterson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stroganoff
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 8 ounces egg noodles
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
Add sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet, stirring until well combined. Serve hot.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 22g