This Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect combination of creamy, savory flavors with tender mushrooms and seasoned ground beef, all served over a bed of egg noodles. The sauce is rich and comforting, making it an ideal dish for a cozy night at home or a simple family dinner. The freshness of the parsley garnish adds a nice pop of color and flavor.
Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a classic comfort food dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. Serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a green salad for a complete meal!
Full Recipe:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Egg noodles or rice for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the onions and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the mushrooms and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until softened.
- Sprinkle flour over the beef and mushroom mixture, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Slowly add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes to thicken.
- Stir in the sour cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice, and garnish with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 450 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Origin of Stroganoff
Beef Stroganoff originated in Russia in the 19th century and was named after the Russian diplomat Count Stroganoff. Traditionally made with sautéed pieces of beef served in a rich, creamy sauce, this dish has evolved over the years, with many different versions and adaptations across the world. The ground beef version is a modern take on the classic, offering a faster, more affordable way to enjoy the rich flavors of this iconic dish without compromising on taste.
Why Ground Beef Stroganoff is a Great Meal
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need something quick, hearty, and delicious. It uses simple, accessible ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge, such as ground beef, mushrooms, onions, and sour cream. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with egg noodles or rice, making it a satisfying meal for the whole family. The use of ground beef, as opposed to steak or other cuts of beef, helps keep this dish budget-friendly while maintaining all the comfort and richness of the original recipe.
Health Benefits
Ground beef, when used in moderation, can be a good source of high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Adding mushrooms to the dish introduces a source of antioxidants and fiber, while the sour cream adds calcium. If you’re looking to make the dish lighter, you can substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt and use lean ground beef or even ground turkey as an alternative.
Customization Ideas
This Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to modify based on your dietary preferences or what you have on hand:
- For a healthier version: Use lean ground beef or swap it out with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian option: Replace the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Keto-friendly: Serve the stroganoff over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional egg noodles.
- Make it extra rich: For an indulgent twist, you can add a splash of heavy cream along with the sour cream for an even creamier sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Ground Beef Stroganoff is usually served over egg noodles, but you can also serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower mash for a lower-carb alternative. For a complete meal, pair it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans, or a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Ground Beef Stroganoff is an excellent dish for meal prep. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the sauce to keep it creamy, as it may thicken when cooled. You can also freeze the stroganoff for up to 2 months; just make sure to cool it completely before freezing, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
The History and Evolution of Stroganoff
Stroganoff was first recorded in Russian cookbooks in the mid-19th century, but its exact origins are unclear. The dish is believed to have been created by a French chef working for the Russian Stroganoff family, hence the name. The original version was made with cubes of beef and served in a sauce made from mustard and a small amount of sour cream—a hallmark of Russian cuisine at the time. Over the years, the recipe has evolved to include mushrooms, onions, and even various types of alcohol like wine or cognac.
As the dish spread around the world, different cultures added their own local twists. For instance, in the U.S., Stroganoff became especially popular in the mid-20th century, often made with ground beef instead of steak and served over egg noodles for a more accessible, family-friendly version. Today, it remains a comfort food staple, appreciated for its rich, creamy sauce and ease of preparation.
Why Ground Beef Stroganoff Stands Out
What sets Ground Beef Stroganoff apart from the traditional steak-based version is its simplicity and speed. By using ground beef, you reduce both the cooking time and the cost, making it an ideal dish for busy families, college students, or anyone who wants a hearty, delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The ground beef version is also more forgiving. Whereas overcooking traditional beef stroganoff can result in tough, chewy meat, ground beef remains tender and flavorful. The addition of mushrooms, onions, and sour cream elevates the flavor profile while still keeping the recipe approachable for novice cooks.
Tips for Perfecting Ground Beef Stroganoff
Here are some expert tips to ensure your Ground Beef Stroganoff turns out perfectly every time:
- Use high-quality beef: While the recipe calls for ground beef, using a higher-quality lean beef (like 85/15) will enhance the flavor of the dish and reduce excess grease.
- Don’t skip the flour: Adding flour helps thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy, luxurious texture you expect from Stroganoff. Make sure to cook the flour for a minute or two after adding it to the skillet to eliminate any raw flour taste.
- Sauté the mushrooms properly: Browning the mushrooms in olive oil before adding them to the sauce adds an extra layer of flavor. Cook them over medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause them to steam rather than brown.
- Balance the flavors: Ground Beef Stroganoff can sometimes be a bit rich due to the sour cream. You can balance this richness by adding a small splash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors at the end of cooking.
- Cook the noodles separately: Don’t cook the egg noodles in the sauce. Prepare them separately to ensure they stay firm and don’t soak up too much of the sauce, which can make them mushy.
Dietary Adaptations for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground Beef Stroganoff can be easily adapted to suit a variety of dietary needs. Here are a few modifications:
- Dairy-Free Version: Replace the sour cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream. You can also use non-dairy milk thickened with a bit of cornstarch or flour for a creamy sauce without the dairy.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free egg noodles or serve the stroganoff over gluten-free pasta, mashed potatoes, or rice. Be sure to use gluten-free flour or cornstarch for thickening the sauce.
- Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly: For those following a low-carb or keto diet, serve the stroganoff over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles. You can also skip the flour and thicken the sauce with cream cheese or heavy cream for a richer, keto-friendly option.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for hearty lentils, tofu, or plant-based meat substitutes. The mushrooms in the dish already provide a meaty texture, so this adaptation is easy and still delicious.
Creative Variations of Ground Beef Stroganoff
If you’re looking to shake things up or try something new, here are some fun variations of the classic ground beef stroganoff:
- Bacon-Infused Stroganoff: Add crispy bacon pieces to the sauce for a smoky twist.
- Spicy Stroganoff: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also swap regular Worcestershire sauce with a spicy variant for an extra kick.
- Herb-Infused Stroganoff: Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can add a fragrant, earthy flavor to the dish. Just be sure to add them at the end of the cooking process to maintain their freshness.
- Cheesy Stroganoff: Stir in some grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese to the sauce for a cheesy, indulgent take on the recipe.
- Wine or Brandy Addition: Deglaze the pan with a splash of red or white wine, or even brandy, before adding the broth. This adds depth to the flavor and brings out the richness of the beef.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff
Although Ground Beef Stroganoff is often served over egg noodles or rice, there are plenty of other side dishes that pair perfectly with it. Here are a few ideas:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots offer a nutritious and colorful contrast to the creamy sauce.
- Salad: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the stroganoff.
- Crusty Bread: Use a slice of hearty, crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve the stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.
How to Reheat Ground Beef Stroganoff
Reheating stroganoff can be tricky because sour cream-based sauces can sometimes split when heated too quickly. To prevent this, gently reheat leftovers over low heat in a skillet or saucepan. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid using the microwave if possible, but if you must, use a low power setting and heat in short intervals, stirring frequently.
Fun Facts about Ground Beef Stroganoff
- During the Soviet era, Beef Stroganoff became a symbol of Russian cuisine and was commonly served at banquets and special occasions.
- The original Stroganoff dish did not include mushrooms, which were added later in Western adaptations.
- Stroganoff is so versatile that variations exist around the world, with countries like Brazil adding ketchup and mustard to the sauce, and Japan serving it over white rice with a side of pickles.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting, versatile, and easy-to-make dish that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Its rich, creamy sauce, combined with tender ground beef and mushrooms, makes it a family favorite, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly meal or a customizable recipe that can be adapted to various dietary needs, this stroganoff variation is sure to satisfy. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and delicious.