Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting, creamy dish that combines tender ground beef with savory mushrooms, a rich sauce, and a touch of Dijon mustard. Whether served over buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice, this dish is the perfect meal for cozy nights or a satisfying family dinner.
Why Ground Beef Stroganoff is So Irresistible
What makes Ground Beef Stroganoff so irresistible is the creamy, flavorful sauce that coats the ground beef and mushrooms. The Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard bring a depth of flavor, while the sour cream adds a smooth, tangy richness. Paired with the tender beef and earthy mushrooms, it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (or more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (or more to taste)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream (full fat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ground Beef Stroganoff
Here’s how to make this creamy, savory dish:
- Sauté the Mushrooms and Onions
Add the olive oil and butter to a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the mushrooms and onions. Sauté, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes or until the mushrooms release their water and begin to brown. Once cooked, remove the mushrooms and onions from the pan and set aside. - Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, about 8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef starts to brown, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes. If there’s excess fat in the pan, spoon most of it out. - Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the browned beef and stir it in, allowing it to cook for about 1 minute.
Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and beef broth, stirring until the flour and mustard dissolve. Scrape up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan and bring the sauce to a simmer. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. - Combine the Mushrooms and Onions
Return the sautéed mushrooms and onions to the skillet, stirring them into the sauce. Let everything simmer together for a couple of minutes. - Stir in the Sour Cream
Take the pan off the heat and stir in the sour cream, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Serve
Serve the Ground Beef Stroganoff immediately over buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.
Key Ingredients for Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff
To create this rich and comforting dish, these ingredients are key:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and texture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Cremini Mushrooms: These mushrooms have a rich, earthy flavor that complements the savory beef.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to the sauce, making it smooth and luscious.
- Dijon Mustard and Worcestershire Sauce: These add depth and complexity to the sauce, enhancing the overall flavor.
Exploring Variations for Your Ground Beef Stroganoff
Feel free to customize Ground Beef Stroganoff to suit your taste. Here are some ideas:
- Add vegetables: You can throw in some spinach, peas, or carrots to add color and extra nutrients.
- Try a different protein: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork for a twist on the classic.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish some heat.
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff Every Time
- Use lean beef: Lean ground beef ensures that the dish is flavorful without being greasy.
- Don’t overcook the flour: When adding the flour, make sure to cook it for just 1 minute to avoid a raw taste.
- Adjust the sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more beef broth or a dollop of sour cream to thin it out. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
The Magic of the Sauce
The magic of Ground Beef Stroganoff is in the sauce. The combination of Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, beef broth, and sour cream creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the beef and pasta perfectly. The mushrooms add an earthy depth, while the garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
Nutritional Information for Health-Conscious Eaters
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of Ground Beef Stroganoff (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Protein: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of sour cream or use a low-fat version.
Storing and Freezing Your Ground Beef Stroganoff
To Store: Let the dish cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To Freeze: Freeze the stroganoff in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit more broth or sour cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Stroganoff
Serve this hearty dish with buttered egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice for a filling meal. It’s also great with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
Essential Cooking Tools and Equipment
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- Large skillet or sauté pan for cooking the beef and making the sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- Knife and cutting board for chopping the vegetables and garlic
- Measuring spoons for the seasonings
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or sour cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just add the beef and simmer before serving.
Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
Instructions:
- Cook the beef and set aside.
- Make the sauce with broth, garlic, and sour cream.
- Combine the beef, sauce, and pasta, and serve hot!
Key Takeaways
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a rich, comforting dish with a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s perfect for family dinners. The tender beef and earthy mushrooms make it a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and always a hit.
PrintGround Beef Stroganoff
Description
A creamy, savory dish with ground beef, mushrooms, and a tangy Dijon mustard sauce, perfect for serving over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients
-
1 lb lean ground beef
-
1 cup beef broth
-
1/2 cup sour cream
-
1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
Instructions
-
Cook the beef and set aside.
-
Make the sauce with broth, garlic, and sour cream.
-
Combine the beef, sauce, and pasta, and serve hot!
Notes
Prep time: 10 minutes, Cook time: 20 minutes, Total time: 30 minutes, Servings: 4.