The Ultimate Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe: A Creamy Comfort Food Classic
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a rich, creamy, and hearty dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or when you’re craving a satisfying meal, this recipe is simple to prepare but packed with mouthwatering goodness. This ultimate guide will walk you through how to make this classic recipe step-by-step, from the ingredients to the serving suggestions.
What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a simplified, yet delicious version of the classic Beef Stroganoff, traditionally made with tender pieces of beef. Instead of using whole cuts of beef, ground beef is utilized to create a quicker and equally flavorful dish. This comforting meal features a creamy sauce made from sour cream, Dijon mustard, and beef broth, paired with perfectly cooked ground beef, onions, and garlic.
Served over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, Ground Beef Stroganoff is a perfect meal for those who love rich, savory flavors without the need for lengthy cooking times. Whether you are a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why You’ll Love Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a meal that checks all the boxes when it comes to comfort food:
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of sour cream and beef broth creates a velvety sauce that complements the beef perfectly.
- Quick and Easy: Unlike traditional stroganoff recipes that require searing beef pieces, this version uses ground beef for faster prep and cooking.
- Versatile: This recipe can be paired with rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes, allowing you to customize the dish according to your preferences.
- Affordable: Ground beef is an affordable protein, making this recipe a budget-friendly option for feeding the family or hosting friends.
- Hearty and Filling: The hearty beef mixture, paired with a rich sauce, makes for a satisfying meal that will leave you full and content.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Stroganoff
To make this creamy and flavorful Ground Beef Stroganoff, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef: This is the base of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds a savory depth to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings an aromatic base flavor to the beef mixture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a touch of umami to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: This ingredient adds a subtle tang and sharpness that balances the richness of the sour cream.
- 1 cup beef broth: Forms the base of the creamy sauce, adding flavor and moisture.
- 1 cup sour cream: The key ingredient for creating that creamy texture that makes this dish irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon flour: Used to thicken the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the dish.
- 2 cups cooked rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes: For serving and making the dish more filling.
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
Making Ground Beef Stroganoff is simple and straightforward. With a few easy steps, you’ll have a meal that everyone will love.
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This process should take about 7–10 minutes. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat, leaving just enough to retain flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Sauté them for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes softened and translucent, and the garlic becomes fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Next, add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard, and 1 cup of beef broth to the skillet. Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce. Mix well, ensuring the flour is fully incorporated. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly.
Step 4: Add Sour Cream
Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of sour cream. Continue to cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper according to your preferences.
Step 5: Serve
Serve your Ground Beef Stroganoff over a bed of cooked rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, and the creamy beef mixture pairs beautifully with the starches.
Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Stroganoff
While Ground Beef Stroganoff is delicious on its own, you can elevate the dish with a few simple additions:
- Vegetable Side: Pair your stroganoff with a fresh vegetable side such as steamed broccoli, sautéed green beans, or a crisp salad.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread to help scoop up any extra sauce left on your plate.
- Herb Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme over the dish for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Wine Pairing: For a more indulgent meal, pair this dish with a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot.
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff
To ensure that your Ground Beef Stroganoff turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
- Use Lean Ground Beef: If you prefer a leaner version, opt for lean ground beef (such as 90% lean). Just be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the meat to avoid greasy sauce.
- Adjust the Thickness: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or even a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Don’t Overcook the Sour Cream: After adding the sour cream, avoid cooking the sauce at high heat, as this can cause the cream to curdle. Keep the heat low and stir constantly.
- Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency.
Nutrition Facts for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (assuming 4 servings total):
- Calories: 450–500 calories
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind that the nutritional content will vary depending on the ingredients you use, such as the type of protein (lean ground beef vs. regular) and the starch you serve it with (rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes).
FAQs About Ground Beef Stroganoff
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option. Ground chicken would also work well in this recipe.
2. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make Ground Beef Stroganoff dairy-free, substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free sour cream alternative, and use a plant-based broth in place of beef broth.
3. Can I freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Yes, you can freeze the beef mixture before adding the sour cream. After cooking and cooling, transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat and then add the sour cream before serving.
4. Can I make this recipe without flour?
Yes, if you want to make the recipe gluten-free or reduce carbs, you can skip the flour and allow the sauce to thicken naturally as it simmers. Alternatively, you can use cornstarch as a thickening agent.
5. How do I reheat leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff?
To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir in the sour cream just before serving to keep it smooth.
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting, creamy dish that offers rich flavors in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can create a delicious, homemade stroganoff that rivals any restaurant version. Enjoy this creamy, savory dish with your choice of sides, and don’t forget to share it with your family and friends!