This Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is a comforting classic that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, this dish combines savory ground beef with creamy sauce and hearty noodles. The addition of frozen vegetables makes it even more convenient, ensuring you can whip up a delicious dinner without fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
- Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of sour cream and beef broth creates a rich sauce that coats the noodles beautifully.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- Kid-Approved: The cheesy goodness and tender beef make it a hit with children and adults alike.
- One-Pot Wonder: You can cook everything in one pot, minimizing cleanup time while maximizing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation. Having everything ready will help you focus on creating this delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to brown the ground beef evenly while providing ample room for mixing all ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your sauce.
Ingredients
This Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is easy to make from scratch right on the stove top or as an oven-baked casserole. Frozen vegetables make an easy addition with no need for mushrooms!
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 lb. ground beef (I use 85% lean)
- Salt/Pepper (to taste)
- 1 onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 Tablespoons butter
For the Sauce
- 3 Tablespoons flour
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- ¾ cup sour cream (close to room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce (can sub low sodium soy sauce)
- 1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard
For the Pasta and Veggies
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 8 oz. egg noodles (uncooked)
- Parsley (to garnish)
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef. Season with salt and pepper.
Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
Once done, remove excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet.
Cook until onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Sprinkle flour over the meat mixture.
Stir well to combine for about 1 minute until it’s mixed thoroughly.
Add beef broth gradually while stirring continuously.
Step 4: Add Condiments
Lower the heat and stir in sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
Step 5: Incorporate Noodles
Fold in uncooked egg noodles and frozen peas into the mixture.
Step 6: Simmer Until Cooked
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until noodles are tender.
Step 7: Add Cheese & Serve
Once cooked, stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
Garnish with parsley before serving warm.
Enjoy your homemade Ground Beef Stroganoff!
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it on its own or pairing it with sides, these suggestions will enhance your meal.
Classic Serving Suggestion
- Serve the Ground Beef Stroganoff over a bed of warm egg noodles for a traditional experience.
Garnish Ideas
- Top with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and freshness.
Add Some Crunch
- Serve with crispy breadsticks or garlic bread alongside your plate for added texture.
Pair with Greens
- A simple side salad will complement the richness of the stroganoff and provide a refreshing contrast.
Comforting Option
- Consider serving it in a casserole dish with extra cheese melted on top for a comforting, baked version.
Family Style
- Offer the Ground Beef Stroganoff in a large bowl at the center of the table, allowing everyone to serve themselves.
How to Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff
To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ground Beef Stroganoff, consider these helpful tips.
Choose quality beef: Opt for 85% lean ground beef for a balance of flavor and fat that enhances the dish without being too greasy.
Sauté onions thoroughly: Cooking the onions until they are soft and translucent will add sweetness and depth to your stroganoff.
Use room temperature sour cream: This prevents curdling when mixed into the hot sauce, ensuring a smooth and creamy consistency.
Season well: Don’t forget to taste as you go. Adjust salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce based on your preference.
Cook noodles al dente: This helps them hold up better when mixed with the sauce, preventing them from becoming mushy.
Experiment with spices: Feel free to add paprika or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor that complements the beef.
Best Side Dishes for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Pairing your Ground Beef Stroganoff with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some delicious options.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce and adds delightful crunchiness.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides nutrients while balancing the rich flavors of stroganoff.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make for an indulgent side that pairs wonderfully with beef dishes.
Green Beans Almondine: Sautéed green beans topped with almonds offer a nice crunch and freshness to your meal.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These roasted veggies have earthy flavors that complement the savory notes of stroganoff.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad brings crispness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish beautifully.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and crunch, making it an excellent contrast to creamy stroganoff.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile, providing sweetness against savory notes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Ground Beef Stroganoff, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to be mindful of:
- Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to season your ground beef properly can leave your dish bland. Always add salt and pepper to taste during cooking.
- Overcooking the beef: Cooking the beef for too long can make it tough. Brown it just until cooked through for a tender texture.
- Skipping the sour cream: Omitting sour cream results in a less creamy sauce. Make sure to include it for that rich flavor and texture.
- Not using room temperature ingredients: Cold sour cream can curdle when mixed with hot ingredients. Let it sit out for a bit before use.
- Using low-quality broth: Poor quality beef broth can affect the overall flavor. Opt for a good-quality broth or homemade if possible.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Let the dish cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
Reheating Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover the dish with foil to prevent drying out while reheating.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of beef broth if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about Ground Beef Stroganoff:
Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff without mushrooms?
Yes, this recipe uses frozen peas instead of mushrooms, making it easier and still delicious!
How do I customize my Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
What are some side dishes that go well with Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Mashed potatoes, green beans, or crusty bread are great options to serve alongside this dish.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can use leaner ground beef or substitute half with ground turkey for a lighter version.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting and versatile dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its creamy sauce and hearty flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or seasonings for a personal touch.
Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory ground beef, creamy sauce, and hearty egg noodles into a delicious one-pot meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, you can create a satisfying dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike. The addition of frozen peas adds convenience without compromising flavor, making it an easy choice for those looking to whip up a quick dinner. Serve it warm over a bed of noodles, garnished with fresh parsley for a touch of elegance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 onion (finely diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 ½ cups beef broth
- ¾ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 8 oz egg noodles (uncooked)
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Drain excess fat if necessary, then add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. Gradually add beef broth while stirring continuously.
- Lower heat; mix in sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
- Fold in uncooked egg noodles and frozen peas.
- Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
