This Ground Beef Stroganoff brings together tender ground beef and a silky, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the egg noodles. The flavor-packed sauce, made with beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and a touch of Dijon mustard, adds depth and richness to the dish.
Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It’s the ideal dish for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal for a special gathering. With a few simple ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles, cooked
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- In a large skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Remove excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture, stirring well to coat. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
- Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, and garnish with chopped parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes | Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Comfort Food Classic
Ground Beef Stroganoff is one of those classic dishes that bring comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Originating in Russia, this dish has been adapted worldwide, making it a family favorite in homes across many cultures. With its rich, creamy sauce, savory ground beef, and tender noodles, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures that never disappoints. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or need something quick and delicious on a weeknight, Ground Beef Stroganoff is an easy and hearty meal that checks all the boxes.
The History of Ground Beef Stroganoff
The name “Stroganoff” comes from the Russian aristocratic family, the Stroganovs, who were known for their wealth and influence during the 19th century. The classic version of the dish was made with tender beef cubes, often paired with mushrooms and a creamy sauce made with sour cream and mustard. Over time, the recipe evolved into many variations, one of the most popular being Ground Beef Stroganoff. This version is simpler and quicker to prepare, making it ideal for busy households without sacrificing any of the rich, comforting flavors.
What Makes Ground Beef Stroganoff Special?
Ground Beef Stroganoff stands out for its rich, creamy sauce, which is a key element that makes it so irresistible. The sauce is typically made with beef broth, sour cream, and a touch of mustard, creating a creamy, savory, and tangy base that perfectly complements the ground beef. The addition of Worcestershire sauce enhances the depth of flavor, making the dish even more savory.
Another feature that makes Ground Beef Stroganoff special is its versatility. While the traditional recipe calls for egg noodles, you can easily swap in other types of pasta, such as penne, farfalle, or fusilli, depending on your preference. You can also incorporate vegetables such as mushrooms, peas, or onions, allowing you to personalize the dish to your liking.
Why Ground Beef Stroganoff is Perfect for Busy Nights
One of the best things about Ground Beef Stroganoff is how quick and easy it is to make. This dish doesn’t require hours of preparation or complex techniques, making it the ideal choice for a busy weeknight. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table that will please both kids and adults alike. Ground Beef Stroganoff is also great for meal prepping, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for several days, allowing you to have a ready-to-eat meal waiting when needed.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground Beef Stroganoff is typically served over egg noodles, which soak up the creamy sauce perfectly. However, if you’re looking to make this dish a bit lighter, consider serving it over a bed of steamed rice or mashed potatoes. The hearty sauce complements the simplicity of these sides, creating a well-rounded meal. You can also serve the Stroganoff with a side of vegetables, such as sautéed spinach or roasted broccoli, to add some freshness and balance the richness of the dish.
Another great option is to serve Ground Beef Stroganoff as a filling for baked potatoes. Simply spoon the creamy beef mixture onto the cooked potatoes, and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives. This variation is a fun twist on the classic and can make for a more casual, hands-on meal that’s perfect for family-style dining.
Tips for Making the Best Ground Beef Stroganoff
While this recipe is straightforward, there are a few tips to ensure your Ground Beef Stroganoff turns out perfectly every time.
- Use lean ground beef: Ground beef is a staple in this recipe, and using lean ground beef will help keep the dish healthier without sacrificing flavor. However, feel free to use ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter version.
- Don’t overcook the beef: Ground beef cooks quickly, so it’s important to avoid overcooking it. Cook it just until browned to ensure it remains tender and juicy.
- Simmer the sauce: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes to help the flavors develop. This is where the magic happens – the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and sour cream meld together into a velvety sauce that will coat the noodles perfectly.
- Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a bit longer to allow it to reduce and thicken.
- Customize with vegetables: Feel free to add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or peas to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture. These vegetables blend seamlessly into the creamy sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef Stroganoff
While Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comfort food classic, it’s also quite nutritious when made with lean beef and paired with a healthy side. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, which are essential for muscle growth, energy production, and maintaining a healthy nervous system. The addition of sour cream provides a good source of calcium, while the egg noodles offer carbohydrates that fuel your body for the day.
For those who are looking to make the dish a bit lighter, using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream can reduce the calorie count while adding a tangy flavor. You can also try using cauliflower rice instead of noodles to make the dish lower in carbs.
Ground Beef Stroganoff for Special Occasions
Ground Beef Stroganoff isn’t just for weeknight dinners. With its rich flavor and creamy texture, it can be dressed up for special occasions as well. This dish makes an excellent main course for a dinner party, family gathering, or a cozy date night at home. To elevate it further, pair the stroganoff with a glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, which complements the savory flavors of the dish.
For a holiday meal, you can serve Ground Beef Stroganoff alongside roasted vegetables and a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish. It’s an excellent option for winter gatherings, especially when paired with warm, crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a timeless dish that blends comfort and flavor into one easy-to-make meal. Its creamy sauce, tender ground beef, and satisfying egg noodles make it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner during the week or a dish to serve at a special occasion, Ground Beef Stroganoff fits the bill. The recipe’s versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to please everyone at the table make it a go-to comfort food. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite for years to come.
Try making Ground Beef Stroganoff tonight and savor the comforting, rich flavors that this classic dish has to offer.