Ground Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious creamy sauce with a hint of Dijon mustard. Served over buttery egg noodles, it’s a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving a cozy meal, this classic recipe is sure to be a hit with the whole family. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and flavor. It takes just 35 minutes to prepare and cook, making it an ideal choice for those busy days when you need a wholesome meal without much fuss. Plus, it’s easy to customize: you can substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or add a splash of red wine to elevate the sauce’s depth. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, Ground Beef Stroganoff delivers on all fronts.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 12 oz egg noodles, cooked
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add butter, onion, garlic, and mushrooms. Sauté until the onions are soft and the mushrooms are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir for 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and let the sauce thicken, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in sour cream, Dijon mustard, and the cooked ground beef. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Classic Comfort Food with a Modern Twist
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a beloved dish that has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of people worldwide. Originating from Russia in the mid-19th century, this meal has evolved over time, incorporating different ingredients and techniques to suit various tastes and preferences. Traditionally, Stroganoff was made with sautéed pieces of beef in a creamy, rich sauce. Today, ground beef is often used as a more affordable and quicker option without sacrificing the signature flavors that make this dish so comforting and satisfying.
The History of Beef Stroganoff
The dish is named after the wealthy Stroganoff family of Russia, who were known for their patronage of the arts and cuisine. The original recipe is thought to have been developed by a French chef working for the Stroganoff family, blending French cooking techniques with Russian ingredients. The dish became popular across Europe and the United States in the 20th century, with variations that reflect local tastes. The use of ground beef instead of sliced beef is a modern adaptation that simplifies the preparation process, making the dish more accessible for home cooks.
Why Ground Beef Stroganoff is the Perfect Weeknight Meal
One of the greatest benefits of Ground Beef Stroganoff is its simplicity. It can be prepared in under 40 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you need a quick, wholesome meal. Ground beef cooks faster than traditional steak cuts, yet it still delivers a rich, hearty flavor that pairs beautifully with the creamy mushroom sauce. The addition of egg noodles brings the dish together, providing a complete meal that’s filling and delicious.
Versatile Ingredients:
- Ground Beef: The use of ground beef not only makes this dish more affordable, but it also reduces the cooking time significantly. It’s a budget-friendly protein that adds a rich, meaty flavor.
- Mushrooms: Mushrooms add depth and an earthy flavor to the dish, elevating the creamy sauce and providing a texture contrast to the tender beef.
- Sour Cream: The tanginess of sour cream balances the richness of the dish, creating a velvety smooth sauce that brings all the ingredients together.
- Egg Noodles: These are the perfect base for soaking up the sauce, offering a soft, buttery texture that complements the creamy Stroganoff perfectly.
Health Benefits of Ground Beef Stroganoff
While Ground Beef Stroganoff may not immediately come to mind as a “health food,” it’s actually a well-balanced meal when prepared thoughtfully. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits:
- Protein-Rich Meal: Ground beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth, repair, and overall health. Each serving provides a healthy dose of protein, keeping you full and satisfied.
- Balanced Macronutrients: This dish offers a balanced mix of macronutrients – proteins from the beef, carbohydrates from the noodles, and fats from the sour cream. When paired with a side of vegetables, it becomes a complete meal that provides all the necessary nutrients your body needs.
- Customizable for Healthier Options: For a lighter version, you can easily swap out the sour cream for Greek yogurt, which adds a similar tang while lowering the fat content. Additionally, lean ground beef, ground turkey, or even ground chicken can be used to reduce the fat and calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
- Rich in Iron and B Vitamins: Ground beef is a significant source of iron and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production and the proper functioning of your body. These nutrients help fight fatigue and improve cognitive function, making this meal not only delicious but also energizing.
A Family-Friendly Dish
One of the reasons why Ground Beef Stroganoff has remained a household favorite is that it appeals to a wide range of palates. Its creamy sauce and mild flavors make it especially kid-friendly, while its savory richness satisfies the adults at the table. Plus, it’s easy to make in large batches, making it a great option for families who want a hearty dinner that will have leftovers for the next day.
Ground Beef Stroganoff can also be easily adjusted to meet individual preferences. Some people enjoy adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami flavor, while others may like to include additional vegetables like peas or spinach for added nutrients. Its flexibility makes it the perfect canvas for customization.
Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Stroganoff
While this recipe is simple, a few tips and tricks can elevate your Ground Beef Stroganoff to the next level:
- Use Fresh Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms add more flavor and texture than canned varieties. Cremini or baby Bella mushrooms are excellent options for a deeper, earthier taste.
- Season Well: Be sure to taste as you cook, adding salt and pepper as needed. The seasoning will make a huge difference in the final flavor of the dish.
- Sear the Beef for Extra Flavor: When cooking the ground beef, allow it to brown slightly before breaking it up. This caramelization adds a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.
- Don’t Boil the Sour Cream: After adding the sour cream, reduce the heat to a simmer. Boiling can cause the sour cream to curdle, which will affect the texture of the sauce. Stir it in gently and let it heat through without reaching a full boil.
- Serve Immediately: Ground Beef Stroganoff is best enjoyed fresh off the stove. While it can be reheated, the sauce may thicken as it sits. If needed, you can thin it out with a little extra beef broth or water when reheating.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Ground Beef Stroganoff stands out from other comfort foods due to its simplicity, versatility, and flavor. It’s one of those meals that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or presenting it at a family gathering, it never fails to impress. The creamy sauce, combined with tender beef and savory mushrooms, creates a harmony of flavors that makes this dish truly special.
The balance of affordability and indulgence is another reason why this recipe shines. You don’t need expensive ingredients or complex cooking techniques to achieve an incredibly satisfying meal. Even novice cooks will find that this recipe is approachable and nearly foolproof.
Additionally, Ground Beef Stroganoff offers endless opportunities for experimentation. You can play around with the seasoning, swap out the noodles for mashed potatoes or rice, or even add a splash of wine to the sauce for added richness. No matter how you make it, the dish will always have that comforting, home-cooked appeal that keeps people coming back for more.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a tried-and-true recipe that has stood the test of time for good reason. It’s quick, affordable, nutritious, and incredibly delicious, making it a must-have in any recipe collection. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting in the kitchen, this dish offers a simple yet satisfying meal that can be tailored to your taste. The next time you’re looking for a comforting dinner option, give Ground Beef Stroganoff a try—you won’t be disappointed!
