Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Ground beef stroganoff is a rich and creamy comfort food that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to please. In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about making the perfect ground beef stroganoff, from essential ingredients to serving tips. Stay with us through the end for a comprehensive guide to making this savory meal your new favorite. Let’s dive in!

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground beef stroganoff is a hearty and flavorful dish that originated in Russia. Traditionally made with tender beef strips, the dish has evolved, and the ground beef version is a quicker, more affordable adaptation. It's made by cooking ground beef with onions and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, typically served over egg noodles or rice. This recipe brings together rich, savory flavors in an easy, one-pan meal that can be on the table in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff

To make ground beef stroganoff, you’ll need a handful of everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Here's a list of the essentials:

• 1 lb ground beef – Use lean ground beef for a less greasy dish, or go for a fattier blend for extra flavor.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds a slight sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Provides a fragrant, savory base.
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced – White or cremini mushrooms work best, though you can use others based on availability.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Helps to thicken the sauce.
• 1 ½ cups beef broth – Adds a deep, savory richness.
• 1 cup sour cream – Gives the sauce its signature creamy texture and tang.
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce – Provides an umami kick to balance out the richness.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard – Adds subtle heat and a tangy element.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, for seasoning.
• Egg noodles or rice – For serving.
• Fresh parsley (optional) – For garnish, adding a pop of color and freshness.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff (Additional Optional Ingredients)

If you're looking to tweak your stroganoff for different tastes or dietary needs, here are some optional ingredients that you can include:

• Heavy cream – For a richer, creamier sauce.
• Greek yogurt – A healthier alternative to sour cream that adds protein and creaminess.
• Ground paprika – Adds a mild smoky flavor that pairs well with beef.
• Red wine – A splash of wine can deepen the flavors of the beef and mushrooms.
• Bay leaf – Adds a subtle herbal note when simmered with the broth.
• Fresh thyme – Another herb that complements the earthiness of mushrooms and beef.
• Cheddar cheese (optional) – If you like your dishes extra indulgent, sprinkle some cheddar cheese into the sauce.

Substitutions and Variations

Ground beef stroganoff is a flexible recipe, allowing for many substitutions and variations to fit different tastes, diets, or pantry availability. Here are some ideas:

• Ground turkey or chicken: If you prefer a lighter option, swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken. These alternatives will offer a slightly different flavor but still work great with the creamy sauce.
• Vegan or vegetarian option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils. Use a non-dairy cream, like coconut milk or cashew cream, and vegetable broth instead of beef broth to create a vegan-friendly stroganoff.
• Gluten-free option: For those avoiding gluten, use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce, and serve the stroganoff over gluten-free pasta or rice.
• Low-carb or keto-friendly: Skip the noodles and serve the stroganoff over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to make it low-carb.
• Mushroom variety: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, to add different textures and flavors.
• Extra vegetables: You can bulk up the dish by adding extra veggies like spinach, peas, or bell peppers.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s get started with cooking this delicious dish. Follow these steps for the perfect ground beef stroganoff:

1. Cook the ground beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once fully cooked, remove the beef from the pan and set it aside. Drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary.
2. Cook the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, add a little oil (if needed) and sauté the diced onions for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Sauté the mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until they have released their liquid and are golden brown.
4. Make the sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onions and mushrooms, stirring constantly to coat them. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps, and simmer until the sauce starts to thicken.
5. Add the seasonings: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for a couple more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Finish with sour cream: Turn the heat down to low and gently stir in the sour cream. Be careful not to boil the sauce after adding the sour cream, as it may curdle. Return the cooked ground beef to the pan and mix everything together until the beef is warmed through and coated in the sauce.
7. Cook the noodles: While the sauce is finishing, cook your egg noodles or rice according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
8. Combine and serve: Serve the stroganoff over a bed of noodles or rice, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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

• Step 1: Brown the ground beef until fully cooked, drain, and set aside.
• Step 2: Sauté onions and garlic until softened.
• Step 3: Add mushrooms and cook until golden brown.
• Step 4: Create a roux with flour and broth to thicken the sauce.
• Step 5: Stir in Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and seasonings.
• Step 6: Add sour cream and reintroduce the ground beef to the pan.
• Step 7: Cook noodles or rice and serve the stroganoff over them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stroganoff might seem straightforward, but a few common mistakes can prevent your dish from reaching perfection. Here are some things to avoid:

• Boiling the sauce after adding sour cream: Sour cream can curdle if overheated. Keep the sauce on low heat once it's added.
• Not browning the beef enough: Ensure your ground beef is nicely browned to build rich flavors. Don't skip this step by rushing or overcrowding the pan.
• Skipping the flour or adding too much: The flour thickens the sauce. Without it, your sauce may be too thin, but adding too much can make it gummy.
• Undercooking the mushrooms: Mushrooms release water as they cook. If you don’t sauté them long enough, your sauce could end up watery.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Ground beef stroganoff is a humble dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be presented beautifully. Here are some tips to elevate the presentation:

• Use wide, shallow bowls: These allow the creamy sauce to pool around the noodles or rice, making it visually appealing.
• Garnish with fresh parsley: A sprinkle of bright green parsley adds color contrast and a fresh note to the rich dish.
• Add a dollop of sour cream on top: For an extra indulgent look, add a spoonful of sour cream in the center before serving.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread: A warm, crusty bread on the side can enhance the meal and be used to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Serve ground beef stroganoff over a bed of buttery egg noodles, fluffy rice, or mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, you can serve it over steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice.
• Accompany the dish with a fresh green salad, steamed asparagus, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the sauce.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Individual portions: Serve in small, individual ramekins or bowls for a more elegant, personal touch.
• Layered presentation: Place the noodles or rice first, followed by a generous ladle of stroganoff, topped with a dollop of sour cream and fresh herbs.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tips

• Make ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge and even improves in flavor after sitting overnight. Make it a day in advance and reheat it gently over low heat before serving.
• Double the recipe: Ground beef stroganoff freezes well, so consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for a quick future meal.
• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a little extra flour when making the roux. For a thinner sauce, stir in more beef broth.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I freeze ground beef stroganoff? Yes, ground beef stroganoff freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
2. Can I use other types of meat? Absolutely. You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for different flavor profiles.
3. Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can swap out the sour cream for a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream, and use a dairy-free butter or oil.
4. What side dishes go well with ground beef stroganoff? Simple sides like a green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread pair nicely with the richness of the stroganoff.
5. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Brown the beef, onions, and mushrooms first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours, stirring in the sour cream at the end.

Conclusion

Ground beef stroganoff is the perfect recipe for anyone looking for a quick, hearty meal that's full of flavor. Its creamy sauce, rich beef, and savory mushrooms make it an irresistible comfort food. With simple ingredients, flexible substitutions, and easy step-by-step instructions, you can whip up this delicious dish anytime. Now that you know all the tips and tricks for making the best ground beef stroganoff, it’s time to grab your skillet and get cooking!

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