Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve found it! This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is one of those dishes that brings everyone together around the dinner table. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-satisfying—a true comfort food classic that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The best part? You can whip it up in just about 40 minutes!

There’s something special about the combination of savory ground beef and tangy sour cream that makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s an easy recipe to adapt for different tastes, making it a staple in our home. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy nights.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy sauce and tender noodles—it’s a hit for everyone!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can easily prepare this dish in advance and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
• Delicious flavor: The blend of beef broth, Dijon mustard, and sour cream creates a rich sauce that’s packed with flavor.
• Simple ingredients: Made with wholesome pantry staples, you’ll likely have everything you need on hand!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff features simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb Ground Beef (lean)
• 1 medium Onion (chopped)
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 8 oz Mushrooms (sliced)
• 2 tbsp All-Purpose Flour
• 2 cups Beef Broth
• 1/2 cup Sour Cream
• 2 tbsp Dijon Mustard
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 tsp Paprika
• 1/2 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
• 1 lb Egg Noodles
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil

Variations

One of the best things about this Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your tastes or use what you have at home. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
• Make it creamy: For an even richer sauce, add a splash of cream cheese along with the sour cream.
• Change up the noodles: If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it over rice or mashed potatoes instead of egg noodles.

How to Make Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions. Drain them well and set aside while you prepare the rest of the dish. This step ensures your noodles are ready to soak up all that delicious stroganoff sauce!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned. Draining off any excess grease helps keep your stroganoff from being too oily while letting those meaty flavors shine through.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Next, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the skillet with your browned beef. Cook them until the onion is softened and mushrooms are tender—about 5-7 minutes. Then throw in minced garlic for that aromatic punch! Cooking these ingredients together allows their flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 4: Create the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the mixture in your skillet and stir constantly for about one minute—it forms a roux which thickens your sauce later on. Gradually pour in beef broth while stirring diligently to avoid lumps. Bring everything to a simmer; this step is crucial as it builds the base for your delicious sauce.

Step 5: Flavor It Up

Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Lower the heat and let this simmer gently for about ten minutes until slightly thickened—this slow cooking draws out all those wonderful flavors.

Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream

Remove your skillet from heat and stir in sour cream until fully incorporated. This adds creaminess to your stroganoff but be careful not to boil after adding; we want that smooth texture!

Step 7: Combine & Serve

Finally, fold in those cooked egg noodles into your rich stroganoff sauce until they’re well coated. Serve immediately while it’s warm and comforting—trust me; everyone will be coming back for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Making a delicious Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is simple, but a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use lean ground beef: Lean ground beef reduces excess grease in your dish, resulting in a healthier and more flavorful stroganoff.

• Cook noodles al dente: Cooking the egg noodles until just firm helps them hold their shape when mixed with the sauce, ensuring a pleasing texture in every bite.

• Add fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives at the end adds a pop of color and freshness that enhances the overall flavor profile.

• Don’t boil after adding sour cream: Prevent curdling by removing the skillet from heat before stirring in the sour cream, ensuring that your sauce remains smooth and creamy.

How to Serve Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Presenting your Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff beautifully can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ideas for serving this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or chives sprinkled on top bring brightness and color to your plate.
• Cracked Black Pepper: A light dusting adds a touch of spice and enhances the flavors already present in the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: The crispy exterior and soft interior of garlic bread make it perfect for soaking up the savory stroganoff sauce.
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the creamy pasta while adding a nice crunch.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers freshness that balances out the richness of the stroganoff.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add vibrant color and additional nutrients to your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy a delightful Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff that’s sure to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal on busy days without the fuss. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stroganoff to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion out the stroganoff into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
• Consider freezing the sauce separately from the noodles for better texture upon reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stroganoff in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring gently until warmed through. If it’s too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
• Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff.

Can I make this Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff with another type of meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken if you prefer. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they might vary slightly.

How do I make Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt alternative and use coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk instead of beef broth. Adjust seasonings as needed.

What can I serve with Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a side salad, or even crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!

How long does Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings comfort after a long day. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it solo, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds. Enjoy making it and feel free to get creative with your own twists. Happy cooking!