Ground Beef Stroganoff

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that the whole family will love, then you’ve found it with this Ground Beef Stroganoff! This recipe is my go-to on busy weeknights when I want to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The rich flavors of the creamy sauce paired with tender ground beef and egg noodles make this dish a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s so easy to prepare that even the kids can help out!

Whether it’s a family gathering or just a simple dinner at home, Ground Beef Stroganoff fits every occasion perfectly. It’s quick to make, yet feels special enough to serve on any table. Let’s dive into why this recipe is so loved!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for those busy evenings!
• Family Favorite: With its creamy sauce and tender noodles, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this ahead of time and reheat it easily for a stress-free dinner option.
• Versatile Ingredients: Simple staples create a hearty meal that you can customize based on what you have on hand.
• Comforting Flavors: The savory blend of beef and creamy mushroom sauce will warm your soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted to know that making Ground Beef Stroganoff requires only simple and wholesome ingredients. Most of these are likely already in your pantry! Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 packet (0.87 oz) brown gravy mix
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 bag (12 oz) wide egg noodles

Variations

One of the best things about Ground Beef Stroganoff is how flexible it is! You can easily make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add some veggies: Toss in some mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles.
• Spice it up: For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce!

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Boil Water for Noodles

Fill a pot with water and start boiling it while you cook the ground beef mixture. This way, once your meat is ready to simmer, the water will be bubbling away, and you can add your egg noodles right in.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the beef is no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess grease or liquid—this keeps your stroganoff nice and creamy without being greasy!

Step 3: Add Gravy Mix

Whisk together the contents of the brown gravy packet with cold water until well combined. Pour this into your cooked ground beef mixture—this is where all that wonderful flavor starts to come together!

Step 4: Stir in Creamy Ingredients

Next, add in the sour cream and cream of mushroom soup. Stir everything together until it’s fully blended; this will create that rich and creamy texture we all love.

Step 5: Simmer While Cooking Noodles

Let this delicious mixture simmer over medium heat while you cook the noodles—about ten minutes should do it! This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully together.

Step 6: Cook Noodles

Cook your egg noodles according to package instructions. Don’t forget to add about a teaspoon of salt to the boiling water; this helps flavor your pasta! Once they are cooked, drain them but avoid rinsing—this keeps them perfectly saucy.

Step 7: Combine Everything Together

Finally, add your drained noodles along with dried parsley into the creamy ground beef mixture. Give everything a good stir until it’s all well combined—this is where magic happens!

Step 8: Serve!

Dish out generous portions of your comforting Ground Beef Stroganoff and watch everyone dig in happily! Enjoy this delightful meal with family or friends—it’s sure to warm hearts around the table.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Stroganoff

Making Ground Beef Stroganoff can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few handy tips up your sleeve!

• Use lean ground beef: Choosing lean ground beef minimizes excess fat and helps create a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor.
• Add fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or thyme can bring an extra burst of flavor and color to your stroganoff, making it even more appetizing.
• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the mixture to simmer helps develop deeper flavors as the ingredients meld together, resulting in a richer sauce.
• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a creamier sauce, feel free to add more sour cream or cream of mushroom soup. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your taste.
• Experiment with noodles: While wide egg noodles are traditional, trying different pasta shapes like penne or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) can add a fun twist to your meal.

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

Serving Ground Beef Stroganoff is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides that enhance its comforting flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish not only delicious but also visually appealing!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds color and freshness, enhancing the overall presentation.
• Sour cream dollop: A small dollop of sour cream on top creates a beautiful contrast against the creamy sauce and adds extra tanginess.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Vibrant green steamed broccoli provides a nutritious crunch that balances the richness of the stroganoff while adding color to your plate.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making dinner even more enjoyable.
• Green salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy dish.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add natural sweetness and a lovely pop of color, making them an excellent side option for this comforting meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set for a cozy dinner that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table! Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and manage your leftovers effectively:

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stroganoff in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label with the date so you know when it was made.

Freezing

• Allow the stroganoff to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Ground Beef Stroganoff that may help you:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for this Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide a hearty texture and flavor. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I make my Ground Beef Stroganoff healthier?

You can use leaner cuts of ground beef or substitute with ground turkey. Additionally, consider adding more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition.

Is there a gluten-free option for Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Yes! Look for gluten-free noodles and check that your cream of mushroom soup and gravy mix are gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a delicious meal without gluten.

Can I make this Ground Beef Stroganoff dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or coconut yogurt. Make sure your cream of mushroom soup is also dairy-free.

How long does it take to prepare Ground Beef Stroganoff?

This easy recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe a try! It’s such a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy making this dish as much as I do, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on it! Happy cooking!