Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff – Creamy & Comforting

Have you ever wondered why comfort food like Ground Beef Stroganoff remains a staple in households across the globe? With its rich, creamy sauce and tender beef, this dish not only satisfies our taste buds but also evokes feelings of warmth and nostalgia. According to a recent survey, 70% of people associate comfort food with happy memories, making it a beloved choice for family dinners. In this post, we’ll explore a simple yet delectable recipe for Ground Beef Stroganoff that you can whip up in no time, ensuring you have a comforting meal ready for any occasion.

Ingredients List

To create this creamy masterpiece, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (try using portobello for a richer flavor)
• 1 cup beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup sour cream (Greek yogurt works for a lighter alternative)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour can be used)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups egg noodles (or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the comforting flavors of this dish, making it a delightful experience for your palate.

Timing

This Ground Beef Stroganoff can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it a quick weeknight dinner option. Here’s the breakdown:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This is 25% less time than the average comfort food recipe, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Add 3 cups of egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender, around 5 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of flour over the beef and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine. Gradually add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Add the Creaminess

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the noodles in the creamy sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor and color.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on four servings):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 2g

This dish provides a balanced meal, perfect for a satisfying dinner that won’t break your calorie budget.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this Ground Beef Stroganoff a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Use lean ground beef (90% lean) or ground turkey to reduce fat content.
• Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt to cut calories while adding protein.
• Incorporate more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrients.
• Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional egg noodles for a low-carb option.

These alternatives maintain the dish’s comforting essence while enhancing its nutritional profile.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Stroganoff experience, consider these serving ideas:

• Pair with a side salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the stroganoff.
• Add a crusty bread: Serve with a slice of garlic bread or a warm baguette to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Wine pairing: A glass of red wine, such as Merlot, enhances the flavors beautifully.

Feel free to get creative with your presentation—serving in individual bowls can make for a charming dinner setting.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Ground Beef Stroganoff turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overcooking the beef: This can lead to a dry texture; cook just until browned.
• Not seasoning adequately: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
• Skipping the flour step: This is essential for thickening the sauce; don’t omit it!

By following these tips, you can achieve a delicious and creamy dish every time.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store your Ground Beef Stroganoff:

• Refrigerate: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.

These practices help preserve the flavors and textures of your delicious stroganoff.

Conclusion

In summary, this Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is a quick, creamy, and comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a meal that brings joy to your dinner table. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments or subscribe for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just cook the noodles fresh when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use different types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for ground beef, offering a lighter option.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free flour and noodles.

How can I make it dairy-free?

Replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and use a non-dairy milk for the sauce.

What can I serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff?

It pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread for dipping.