Ground Beef Stroganoff

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a plate of Ground Beef Stroganoff. It’s as if each spoonful is a warm hug, wrapping you in nostalgia and satisfaction. I still remember my first experience with this creamy delight. It was a chilly autumn evening, and I was huddled around the dinner table with my family. The aroma of seasoned beef, sautéed onions, and garlic wafted through the air, teasing our appetites and sparking joyful conversations. It’s a dish that not only fills the belly but warms the heart, reminding us of togetherness, laughter, and the joy of sharing a meal.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 10 minutes
• Active Cooking: 20 minutes
• Total Duration: 30 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 4
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 450 calories
• Protein: 26 grams
• Carbs: 38 grams
• Fats: 22 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugars: 4 grams
• Sodium: 680 mg

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stroganoff

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is exceptional for many reasons. It’s quick to prepare yet incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The dish balances richness with a delightful creaminess that comes from the sour cream, while the beef provides a hearty, satisfying base. The egg noodles are coated in a luscious sauce, creating a well-rounded plate that your whole family will love. Plus, it’s easily adaptable—feel free to add mushrooms, spinach, or even a splash of white wine for extra depth.

The Complete Cooking Journey

Embarking on the journey of cooking Ground Beef Stroganoff is quite simple and immensely rewarding. From the sizzle of the onions in hot butter to the final touch of fresh parsley, each step brings you closer to a comforting meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 8 ounces egg noodles
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Method:

### Step 1: Melt the Butter

In a large skillet, heat two tablespoons of butter over medium heat until melted and bubbly.

### Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about four minutes or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

### Step 3: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

### Step 4: Brown the Beef

Add one pound of ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small crumbles. Cook the ground beef for six to eight minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.

### Step 5: Incorporate Flour

Sprinkle two tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture and stir well to evenly coat the meat. Allow the flour to cook for about one minute, stirring frequently, to remove the raw taste of the flour.

### Step 6: Pour in Beef Broth

Pour one cup of beef broth into the skillet, stirring continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.

### Step 7: Add Seasonings

Add one teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce and one tablespoon of Dijon mustard to the skillet. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well combined. Season the mixture with half a teaspoon of salt and a quarter teaspoon of black pepper. Stir again to distribute the seasonings evenly.

### Step 8: Simmer the Mixture

Reduce the heat to low and allow the mixture to simmer for five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.

### Step 9: Boil the Noodles

While the beef mixture simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add eight ounces of egg noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about seven to nine minutes, or until al dente. Drain the cooked noodles in a colander and set aside.

### Step 10: Stir in Sour Cream

Once the beef mixture has thickened, stir in one cup of sour cream until it is fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary by adding more salt or pepper.

### Step 11: Combine with Noodles

Add the drained egg noodles to the skillet with the beef and sauce, stirring gently to combine and coat the noodles in the creamy sauce. Let the stroganoff cook on low for another two to three minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure everything is heated through.

### Step 12: Final Presentation

Remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the ground beef stroganoff to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Ground Beef Stroganoff pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad, allowing the flavors of the creamy sauce to shine. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with crusty bread for dipping, or even mashed potatoes for an extra comforting touch.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the stroganoff in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Don’t rush the browning: Take your time browning the beef for a rich flavor.
• Adjust the creaminess: For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Garnish: Fresh herbs elevate the dish; don’t skip the parsley!

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to adapt this recipe by adding sautéed mushrooms for earthiness, spinach for greens, or even adding herbs like thyme and paprika for extra flavor depth. You can also swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter twist.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just cook the noodles fresh before serving for the best texture.

2. How can I thicken my sauce if it’s too thin?
   If your sauce isn’t thickening enough, whisk in a little cornstarch mixed with cold water to achieve the desired consistency.

3. What can I substitute for sour cream?
   Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for sour cream, offering similar creaminess with added protein.

4. How do I prevent my noodles from sticking together?
   Make sure to stir the noodles in the pot during the first couple of minutes of cooking. Draining and rinsing them briefly with cold water can also help.

5. Can I use other types of noodles?
   Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can use any pasta shape you enjoy—just adjust cooking times accordingly!

Wrapping Up

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of comfort, nostalgia, and the sheer joy of cooking. Whether you’re serving it to family or enjoying a comforting meal solo, this dish brings happiness to the table. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and dive into this delicious culinary experience. You won’t regret it! Happy cooking!

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