Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a beloved comfort food that delivers rich, creamy flavors with every bite. This dish is easy to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing a cozy meal for guests, this recipe will be a hit. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know to make the perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff, including ingredients, substitutions, cooking tips, and more.

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a simplified version of the classic Russian dish, Beef Stroganoff. Traditionally, Beef Stroganoff is made with tender strips of beef sautéed in a creamy sauce with mushrooms, onions, and sour cream. The ground beef version is quicker and more affordable, making it a popular choice for everyday meals. The key to its deliciousness lies in the savory, tangy sauce that envelops the beef and mushrooms, served over a bed of egg noodles or rice.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef - Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• 1 medium onion, diced - Adds a sweet, savory flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced - Enhances the dish with aromatic depth.
• 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced - Cremini or button mushrooms work best.
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth - Forms the base of the sauce.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce - Adds a tangy, umami-rich flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard - Provides a subtle hint of spice.
• 1 cup (240ml) sour cream - Makes the sauce creamy and rich.
• 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour - Helps to thicken the sauce.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil or butter - For sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Salt and pepper, to taste - To enhance the overall flavor.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) - For garnish.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff Sauce

The sauce is the heart of any stroganoff dish. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to make it irresistible:

• Beef broth - Creates a savory base with deep flavors.
• Sour cream - Adds creaminess and tang.
• Worcestershire sauce - Provides a complex, savory taste.
• Dijon mustard - Balances out the richness with a touch of acidity.
• All-purpose flour - Thickens the sauce without making it too heavy.
• Butter or olive oil - Enhances the flavor and texture of the sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

Want to switch things up or need to accommodate dietary restrictions? Here are some ideas:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken - For a lighter version, replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Greek Yogurt - Swap out sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option that maintains the creamy texture.
• Vegetarian Version - Use plant-based ground meat or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Gluten-Free - Replace the flour with cornstarch and use gluten-free noodles.
• Add Veggies - Boost the nutrition by adding bell peppers, spinach, or peas.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Getting everything prepped and ready to go will make cooking this dish a breeze. Follow these step-by-step instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and slice the mushrooms.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Sauté the onions until translucent, then add garlic and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are tender.
4. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir. Pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir until the sauce begins to thicken.
5. Combine with Ground Beef: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for about 5 minutes.
6. Finish with Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream, mix well, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Serve: Serve hot over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

How to Cook Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Heat the Skillet: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even cooking.
2. Brown the Beef: Ensure the beef is cooked through and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.
3. Build the Flavors: Sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms to bring out their sweetness.
4. Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle flour and gradually add broth for a lump-free sauce.
5. Combine and Simmer: Let the flavors meld together by simmering gently.
6. Add Creaminess Last: Stir in sour cream right before serving to keep it from curdling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Beef: Ground beef can become tough if overcooked. Cook just until it’s browned.
• Curdling the Sauce: Add sour cream on low heat to avoid curdling.
• Not Thickening the Sauce Enough: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a bit more flour.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Proper seasoning with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce is essential for a flavorful dish.

Serving and Presentation Tips

The way you present your dish can make a big difference. Here’s how to elevate your Ground Beef Stroganoff:

• Serve Over Egg Noodles: Classic egg noodles are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Use a Bed of Rice: For a gluten-free option, serve over fluffy white or brown rice.
• Try Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with the savory sauce.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or dill for color and freshness.

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

• In Individual Bowls: Serve in deep bowls to catch all the sauce.
• Family-Style: Place the skillet on the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• With Sides: Pair with steamed veggies, a side salad, or crusty bread.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Rustic Look: Serve straight from a cast-iron skillet for a cozy, rustic feel.
• Elegant Touch: Use a sprig of parsley or a dash of paprika on top.
• Layered Dish: Serve over noodles and add sauce on top, letting it drip over the sides.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tips

• Cook Mushrooms Separately: Sauté mushrooms separately until browned to get the best flavor.
• Use High-Quality Beef Broth: A good-quality broth will make a difference in taste.
• Adjust Thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a bit more flour or cornstarch slurry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors meld even better over time. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Q: Can I freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff?
A: Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently over low heat and add a splash of broth if needed.

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Yes, Greek yogurt is a great alternative if you want a lighter dish. It has a similar tangy flavor but is lower in fat.

Q: What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
A: You can substitute Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce and a dash of vinegar, or use coconut aminos for a soy-free option.

Q: What side dishes go well with Ground Beef Stroganoff?
A: Steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or a simple side salad work great. For a more indulgent meal, consider garlic bread or cheesy biscuits.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that satisfies every time. With simple ingredients, easy substitutions, and straightforward cooking instructions, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining guests, or just craving comfort food, this dish delivers in every way. Try it out, and don’t forget to experiment with different variations to make it your own!

Ready to make Ground Beef Stroganoff tonight? Gather your ingredients and get cooking—this delicious, creamy dish awaits!

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