Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe – Creamy, Quick, & Delicious
Winter’s chill brings a craving for something warm and comforting. A hearty stroganoff simmering on the stove is just what you need. This easy ground beef stroganoff recipe is a family favorite that’s quick to make. It’s perfect for a cozy meal or impressing guests.
The sauce of this stroganoff is a rich, savory delight. It pairs well with tender egg noodles or fluffy rice. The mix of juicy ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce is indulgent. You can make this classic dish in your kitchen with just a few ingredients and steps.
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The History and Origins of Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a dish loved by many, with a deep history. It comes from Russian cuisine. It was first made in the early 1800s by Count Stroganoff’s chef. The dish was named after the Count and has changed over time.
Russian Culinary Heritage
The stroganoff recipe started in mid-19th-century Russia. Elena Molokhovets’s cookbook, “A Gift to Young Housewives,” had the first stroganoff recipe in 1871. It had sliced beef, soured cream, and mustard.
Evolution of the Classic Recipe
The beef stroganoff recipe has changed over the years. Modern versions, like ground beef stroganoff, are quicker and cheaper. In the 1960s, the US saw dehydrated and freeze-dried mixes, showing the era’s culinary trends.
“Beef Stroganoff was popular in the 1950s and 60s, and the dish can be traced back to mid-19th-century Tsarist Russia.”
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff
To make the best Ground Beef Stroganoff, you need the right ingredients. Start with lean ground beef, about 90% lean. This makes the dish healthier and less greasy. Mushrooms are also key, adding a rich, earthy flavor.
Onions and garlic are must-haves for their strong taste and smell. They make the stroganoff taste amazing. All-purpose flour thickens the dish, making it creamy and smooth. Beef broth and heavy whipping cream are the base, while sour cream adds a tangy touch.
Worcestershire sauce adds a savory flavor that boosts the dish’s taste. You can also add cream of mushroom or chicken soup for extra creaminess. This is optional, though.
Egg noodles are the classic side for Ground Beef Stroganoff. But, you can try rice or other grains if you like.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lean Ground Beef (90% lean) | 1 lb |
| Mushrooms, sliced | 8 oz |
| Onion, diced | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| All-purpose Flour | 2 tbsp |
| Beef Broth | 1 cup |
| Heavy Whipping Cream | 1 cup |
| Sour Cream | 1 cup |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 tbsp |
With these ingredients, you can make a delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff. It’s a dish that’s both rich and comforting.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe: Step-by-Step Instructions
Making a tasty ground beef stroganoff is easy with this recipe. In just 25 minutes, you can have a dish that everyone will love.
Preparing the Meat and Vegetables
Begin by browning the lean ground beef (93/7) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are soft.
Then, add the sliced white button mushrooms to the skillet. Cook them until they’re tender, about 5 minutes.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
To make the creamy sauce, sprinkle flour over the meat and vegetables. Then, pour in the low-sodium beef broth slowly, whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, until thickened.
Take the skillet off the heat and mix in the sour cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Final Assembly Tips
Serve the ground beef stroganoff over egg noodles or your favorite starch. It makes about 8 cups, with each serving being 1 1/3 cups.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and egg noodles or rice. Enjoy this comforting dish in just 30 minutes!
Choosing the Best Ground Beef for Stroganoff
Choosing the right ground beef is key to a great Ground Beef Stroganoff. Go for 90% lean ground beef for a rich taste without too much grease.
Ground round (85/15) and chuck (80/20) are top picks for this dish. They have the perfect fat level for a satisfying taste. Sirloin ground beef, however, is too dry and lean for the creamy sauce.
The beef’s fat content affects how much butter and oil you need. Leaner beef needs more fat for good browning and flavor. Cremini mushrooms are great for their deep, earthy flavor. But white button or gourmet mushroom mixes also work well.
Make mushroom slices about 1/4 inch thick. Cut them just before cooking to keep their flavor fresh. If you have extra mushrooms, freeze them for future Stroganoff dishes.
Choosing the right ground beef and preparing the mushrooms well will make your Ground Beef Stroganoff a hit. Your family and friends will love it.
Tips for Making the Creamiest Mushroom Sauce
To make a truly indulgent mushroom stroganoff, focus on the sauce. A creamy, velvety sauce is key. Follow a few simple steps to make your stroganoff sauce richer and more flavorful.
Proper Seasoning Techniques
Begin by seasoning the mushroom stroganoff with garlic salt, Worcestershire sauce, and black pepper. This mix of spices gives a strong base for the sauce. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning to get the flavors just right.
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
The secret to a great mushroom stroganoff sauce is finding the right balance. Add a bit of flour to thicken it, making it smooth and creamy. For extra creaminess, add sour cream or heavy cream. If it’s too thick, a little beef broth can thin it out.
With these tips, you’ll make the creamiest mushroom sauce for your stroganoff. Enjoy every bite of this comfort food, with tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a silky sauce.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
When serving Ground Beef Stroganoff, the right side dishes can make it even better. While egg stroganoff noodles are classic, there are many other great choices. These options can enhance the rich, creamy taste of this comfort food.
For a lighter option, try a Watermelon Arugula Salad or a White Bean Salad. A Mediterranean Chickpea Salad is also a great choice. Roasted vegetables like Mediterranean Green Beans or Oven Roasted Eggplant Slices are tasty too.
For something more filling, serve the stroganoff over Instant Pot White Rice or Brown Rice with asparagus. Fluffy Pesto Couscous is another good choice. Don’t forget the bread – Fluffy Buttery Dinner Rolls or Air Fryer Garlic Bread are perfect for dipping.
For dessert, try Hula Pie or Peanut Butter Brownie Cookies. Strawberry Cake Mix Cookies are also delicious. Refreshing drinks like Virgin Margarita or Loomi Tea go well with the stroganoff noodles.
Choosing the right sides is all about balance. Find flavors and textures that complement the ground beef dish. With so many options, you can make a meal that’s both satisfying and complete.
Explore the Possibilities
Here are some popular side dishes that go great with Ground Beef Stroganoff:
- Easy Mashed Potatoes with Sour Cream
- Potato Gnocchi
- Instant Pot Rice
- Kale White Bean Salad
- Sautéed Spinach
- Duchess Potatoes
- Creamy Parmesan Polenta
There are countless ways to make a stroganoff meal complete. Try different sides to find your favorite combination.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Proper storage and reheating are key to keeping your Ground Beef Stroganoff fresh and tasty. Follow these tips to enjoy every bite of your leftover dish.
Refrigeration Methods
Keep leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. It’s best to store the sauce and noodles separately. This keeps the noodles from getting soggy.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is great for storing large amounts of leftovers. Put the Ground Beef Stroganoff in a freezer-safe container or bag. Store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
To reheat, you can use a few methods. For the best taste, heat it gently in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s hot. You can also reheat it in the microwave, stirring every now and then to heat evenly.
By following these easy storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy the creamy flavors of your Ground Beef Stroganoff for a long time. Make the most of your leftovers and reduce waste with these helpful suggestions.
Common Cooking Mistakes to Avoid
Making the perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff is a fun cooking adventure. But, it’s key to avoid common mistakes that can mess up your dish. By knowing these cooking tips and recipe troubleshooting tricks, your stroganoff will be creamy, tasty, and get lots of praise.
One big mistake is overcooking the beef. If it gets too tough, it can spoil the whole dish. Also, watch out not to burn the garlic while sautéing, as it makes the dish bitter. Another error is curdling the sour cream by adding it to the pan when it’s off the heat. To avoid this, take the pan off the heat before adding the sour cream.
Seasoning is crucial for a balanced stroganoff. Don’t skip on the salt, pepper, and spices. Keep tasting and adjusting the seasoning. Also, make sure the sauce is the right thickness before serving. If it’s too thick, add a bit of pasta cooking liquid to thin it out.
By avoiding these common cooking mistakes, you’ll make a stroganoff that will wow everyone. The secret to success is to focus on the details and adjust as you go.
Conclusion
This easy ground beef stroganoff recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It has rich, creamy flavors and simple steps. The dish combines tender ground beef, savory mushrooms, and a luscious sauce.
It’s great for both new cooks and seasoned chefs. Prep time is just 10 minutes, and cooking takes under an hour. This means you can have a tasty, homemade meal ready quickly.
Next time you want a hearty, family-friendly meal, try this recipe. It’s affordable and makes a big impact. It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.