Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

There’s something about a warm, hearty meal that feels like a big hug at the end of the day. Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is just that—pure comfort on a plate. It’s a dish that feels like coming home, where the aroma of sizzling beef and sautéed mushrooms welcomes you and promises a satisfying experience. My fondest memories include gathering around the table to indulge in this rich and creamy concoction, where each bite warms your heart as much as your body.

The main components of this delightful dish come together beautifully. With 1 pound of ground beef combined with a chopped medium onion, the base provides a savory richness, while 2 cloves of minced garlic enhance the flavor. Add in 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms—which soak up all those delicious flavors—and the dish becomes even more mouthwatering. The cream of mushroom soup adds a creamy texture, while the beef broth adds depth. Meanwhile, a little Worcestershire sauce delivers that umami punch, and the finish of sour cream rounds it all out, making it irresistibly rich. A sprinkle of fresh parsley provides a pop of color, making this dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Cooking this meal is as easy as pie, perfect for those busy evenings or when you crave something hearty yet quick. You start by browning the beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet, allowing those wonderful flavors to meld. Once everything is cooked through, you stir in the mushrooms and let them soften. The cream of mushroom soup and beef broth bring a luscious quality to the dish, simmering into a sauce you won’t soon forget. After mixing in the sour cream and serving it over tender egg noodles, the final touch of fresh parsley makes it look as appealing as it tastes.

This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is especially perfect for chilly nights, family gatherings, or even a potluck where you want to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a dish that brings everyone together and makes for a memorable meal.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Quick to prepare: This meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weekdays.
• Simple ingredients: Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so you won’t need a long grocery list.
• Comfort food: Rich, creamy, and hearty, this dish is the ultimate comfort food, reminding you of home-cooked meals.
• Family-friendly: This recipe is a hit with both kids and adults, inviting everyone to the table for seconds.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this dish to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Main Ingredient Tips

When it comes to choosing ground beef, look for meat that is 80% lean and 20% fat. This balance ensures that the beef has enough fat to keep the dish moist without making it greasy. Ground beef is best bought fresh, so visit your local butcher or grocery store and check the packaging date. This type of beef is known for its rich flavor, especially when it’s seasoned right. If you have the option, consider grass-fed beef, as it often has a more robust taste and is a healthier choice.

Options for Substitutions

• Ground turkey or chicken: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a mixture of chopped mushrooms and onions.
• Dairy alternatives: Swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative to fit dietary restrictions.
• Different noodles: Use penne or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
• Stock alternatives: Vegetable broth can replace beef broth if you’re looking for a vegetarian or lighter soup base.
• Herb swaps: For added flavor, consider adding dried herbs like thyme or rosemary while cooking.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

While this recipe is straightforward, there are some common pitfalls to avoid. First, make sure not to overcook the beef in the skillet. Brown it until it is no longer pink, but don’t let it dry out; that will lead to tough meat in your final dish.

Next, be cautious with the timing of your ingredients. Adding the sour cream too early can cause it to curdle, leading to an unpleasant texture. It’s essential to reduce the heat before stirring it in, so it melds smoothly into the sauce.

Another common mistake is using too much liquid when mixing in the cream of mushroom soup and broth. It’s better to start with less and adjust to your desired consistency as the dish simmers. Aim for a creamy texture you can spoon over your egg noodles.

Lastly, seasoning is key. Don’t hesitate to taste as you go along, adjusting the salt and pepper according to your preference. It’s easy to underseason when cooking, but a well-seasoned dish truly brings out the flavors.

What to Serve With Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff?

To complete your meal, consider pairing Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff with simple yet satisfying side dishes. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stroganoff. Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, add a lovely crunch and color. Finally, some crusty bread or dinner rolls can soak up any leftover sauce—as you won’t want to leave anything behind on your plate.

Storage Instructions

Store: You can keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Freeze: This stroganoff can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in freezer-safe containers to preserve its flavor.

Reheat: To reheat, the stovetop method is best. Simply heat it in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it. If using a microwave, cover the bowl loosely with a lid or plastic wrap (leaving a small vent) and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: Approximately 4

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
Calories: 1,200 – 1,500
Protein: 80 – 90 grams
Fat: 60 – 80 grams
Carbohydrates: 80 – 90 grams

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef, Onion, and Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.

Step 2: Cook the Mushrooms

Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are soft. This should take about 3-4 minutes and boosts the flavor profile of the dish.

Step 3: Add the Sauce Components

Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring this mixture to a simmer, allowing the ingredients to blend well together.

Step 4: Incorporate the Sour Cream

Lower the heat before stirring in the sour cream. This helps prevent curdling and creates that rich, creamy texture that we all enjoy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Prepare the Noodles

While the beef mixture is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them and set aside.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve the beef mixture over the cooked egg noodles, garnishing with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

Conclusion

In summary, Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting dish that’s simple to prepare and magnificent to eat. It combines all the elements of a hearty meal that invites you to gather around and enjoy every bite. I encourage you to try this recipe, share it with family, and, most importantly, savor the moments that come with it. Explore more easy recipes on the blog, and let us know how you enjoyed it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time. Just reheat when you’re ready to serve. This dish is also great for freezing!

Is this stroganoff gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free egg noodles and ensure that the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth are gluten-free as well.

How can I make this dish healthier?

Consider using lean ground turkey or adding extra vegetables to the mixture. You can also reduce the amount of sour cream or use Greek yogurt as a substitute for a healthier twist.

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