Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience: This dish is cooked entirely in one skillet, minimizing cleanup and making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is ideal for those short on time but craving a hearty meal.
- Flavorful and comforting: The combination of beef, mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce offers a comforting taste that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs, making it a versatile family favorite.
- Kid-friendly: The mild flavors and tender noodles appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients & Preparation Notes
- Ground beef: Choose an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio for the best flavor and texture. Leaner beef can result in a drier stroganoff.
- Olive oil: Used to sauté the beef and vegetables, adding a subtle flavor.
- Onion and garlic: These aromatics form the flavor base of the dish. Finely chop the onion for even cooking.
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add a meaty texture and earthy flavor. Cremini or button mushrooms work well.
- All-purpose flour: Used to thicken the sauce. Ensure it’s fully incorporated to avoid lumps.
- Beef broth: Provides the liquid base for the sauce. Opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth and umami to the dish.
- Dijon mustard: A small amount enhances the sauce’s complexity without overpowering it.
- Sour cream: Adds creaminess and tang. Use room temperature sour cream to prevent curdling.
- Salt and pepper: Season to taste at the end for the best flavor balance.
- Egg noodles: Traditional for stroganoff, but you can use other pasta types if preferred.
- Fresh parsley: Optional, but adds a fresh, colorful garnish.
Professional Tips & Techniques
- Browning the beef: Ensure the beef is well-browned before adding other ingredients. This caramelization adds a depth of flavor that’s crucial for a rich stroganoff.
- Temperature control: Cook the onions and garlic over medium heat to prevent burning, which can impart a bitter taste.
- Mushroom moisture: Allow the mushrooms to release their moisture and brown slightly. This enhances their flavor and texture.
- Thickening the sauce: When adding the flour, stir constantly to avoid lumps. Cook the flour briefly to remove the raw taste before adding the broth.
- Incorporating sour cream: Always remove the pan from heat before adding sour cream to prevent it from curdling. Stir until fully incorporated.
- Visual cues: The sauce should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. If it’s too thin, simmer longer; if too thick, add a bit more broth.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian version: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use lentils for a hearty texture.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and noodles to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Low-carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional egg noodles.
- Creamy mushroom stroganoff: Omit the beef and double the mushrooms for a meatless version that’s still rich and satisfying.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
- Herb infusion: Incorporate fresh thyme or rosemary during cooking for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy stroganoff: Stir in grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor and creaminess.
- Slow cooker adaptation: Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the other ingredients (except sour cream) and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add sour cream at the end.
Serving Suggestions
- Family dinner: Serve this comforting dish with a side of steamed green beans or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Casual gatherings: This stroganoff is perfect for potlucks or casual get-togethers. It’s easy to double the recipe for larger groups.
- Presentation: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream for an elegant touch.
- Pairing: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the stroganoff.
- Wine pairing: A medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or a light, crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc pairs well with this dish.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
- Make-ahead: Prepare the stroganoff up to the point of adding the sour cream. Refrigerate the base, then reheat and add the sour cream just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the base of the stroganoff and refrigerate it. Add the sour cream just before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
Q: What can I use instead of sour cream?
A: Greek yogurt or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream can be used, but they may slightly alter the flavor.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes, ground turkey or pork can be substituted, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Q: How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
A: Mix a small amount of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering sauce until it reaches the desired consistency.
Q: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, it freezes well. Just be sure to add the sour cream after reheating to preserve its texture.
Q: Can I make this dish without mushrooms?
A: Yes, you can omit the mushrooms or replace them with another vegetable like bell peppers or zucchini.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, any type of pasta will work, though traditional egg noodles are recommended for authenticity.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Stroganoff Easy is a testament to the power of simple ingredients coming together to create a comforting, flavorful meal. Its quick preparation and one-pan convenience make it a go-to for busy nights, while its rich taste and versatility ensure it will become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try and see how easy it is to bring a touch of comfort to your dinner table.
Don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you try on social media, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Enjoy!
Ground Beef Stroganoff Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour over the meat and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.