This Easy and Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff is a warm hug in a bowl! Made with tender ground beef, mushrooms, and rich cream, it’s perfect over noodles or rice.
I love how quick it is to whip up, especially after a busy day! Plus, it turns any weeknight dinner into a cozy feast that everyone will enjoy. Just don’t forget the bread to soak up that yummy sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: It’s the star of the show! For a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken. Vegetarian ground meat or lentils can be great substitutes for a meatless version.
Mushrooms: These add a nice earthy flavor. If you don’t have fresh mushrooms, use canned or dried mushrooms. You could also leave them out if you’re not a fan!
Sour Cream: It gives the sauce its creaminess. Greek yogurt can work as a healthier substitute. Just ensure it’s not too tangy. Cream cheese or heavy cream can also be alternatives for a richer taste.
Pasta: I love using egg noodles, but you can swap them for any pasta shape like penne or fusilli, or even rice for a gluten-free option.
How Do I Get Great Flavor and Texture in My Stroganoff?
The key to flavor in this stroganoff lies in properly cooking the beef and veggies. Here’s how:
- Start with a hot skillet to get a good sear on the beef. Use medium heat to avoid burning, and break it apart as it cooks.
- Sauté the onions until they’re soft and slightly caramelized. This develops a sweet flavor that balances the dish.
- Don’t rush the mushrooms—let them cook until they’re tender and browned. This releases their flavor into the sauce.
- Once you’ve combined the sour cream, keep the heat low to keep it creamy. Avoid boiling at this stage!
Following these steps will help you create a deliciously creamy stroganoff that everyone will love!
Easy and Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 8 oz egg noodles or pasta of choice, cooked according to package instructions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious ground beef stroganoff takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With the cooking time and prep, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This is where the flavor starts!
2. Add Garlic and Mushrooms:
Next, add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender, about 5-6 minutes. Yum, that smell is amazing!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Now it’s time to add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it out.
4. Add Flour:
Sprinkle the flour over the beef mixture and stir well to coat everything. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove that raw flour taste, which will help thicken your sauce.
5. Pour in Beef Broth:
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly. This will make sure the mixture is smooth and starts to thicken nicely.
6. Season the Sauce:
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes so all those flavors can meld together perfectly.
7. Stir in the Sour Cream:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is creamy and completely combined. Be gentle—heat it just enough to warm it without boiling to keep it smooth!
8. Serve:
Now it’s time to plate up! Serve the creamy ground beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or your favorite pasta. Make sure to savor every bite!
9. Garnish:
Finally, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish!
This Easy and Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect solution to a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes for a lighter option. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, similar to the ground beef.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this stroganoff gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch. Use gluten-free pasta or rice as the base for the dish.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can cook the stroganoff in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat. If it’s thickened too much, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrition! Just cook them along with the mushrooms for the best flavor and texture.