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This creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff is a cozy, budget-friendly dish that comes together quickly and satisfies comfort food cravings. It’s perfect for a family dinner and shines when spooned over tender egg noodles. This simple yet flavorful recipe uses everyday ingredients you probably already have, making weeknight meals a breeze without sacrificing taste.
I discovered this recipe one chilly evening when I had just a few ingredients on hand and was craving something comforting. Since then it has become a household favorite and my goto for picky eaters.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: one pound is perfect for flavor and texture try 85/15 for a nice balance or 90/10 for less grease
- Yellow onion: half a cup diced adds sweetness and depth but can be skipped if you’re not a fan
- Garlic: one teaspoon minced fresh or jarred works well and elevates the savory base
- Salted butter: three tablespoons for richness and to make a smooth roux
- Allpurpose flour: three tablespoons to thicken the sauce into a velvety gravy
- Beef broth: one and a half cups choose low sodium if you want to control salt
- Sour cream: one cup essential for that classic creamy tang but Greek yogurt can be a substitute
- Cream of mushroom soup: a ten and a half ounce can adds mushroom flavor and helps build a luscious sauce
- Salt and pepper: to taste don’t be shy seasoning makes all the difference
- Egg noodles: cooked as per package to serve but rice or toast work too
Instructions
- Sear the Beef and Aromatics:
- In a large skillet over mediumhigh heat cook ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic until fully browned and crumbled. Avoid breaking the meat too finely to keep some texture. Drain excess grease and set the beef aside.
- Prepare the Roux:
- Return the skillet to medium heat and add butter allowing it to melt fully. Sprinkle in allpurpose flour while whisking constantly so it absorbs the butter evenly without lumps.
- Add Broth and Thicken:
- Pour in beef broth slowly whisking vigorously to combine. Turn heat to high and let the mixture come to a boil. Continue whisking as it thickens for two to three minutes until you get a gravy like consistency.
- Incorporate Creamy Elements:
- Reduce heat to medium and whisk in sour cream and cream of mushroom soup. Stir continuously until smooth and fully incorporated. Season generously with salt and pepper tasting as you go and adjusting to preference.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to coat well with the sauce. Let it simmer gently for about five minutes allowing the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve:
- Spoon the warm stroganoff over prepared egg noodles and enjoy a comforting hearty meal.
My favorite ingredient here has to be the cream of mushroom soup. It brings that classic mushroom flavor and creaminess you expect in stroganoff without any extra fuss. I recall serving this dish during a family dinner years ago when everyone asked for seconds and even my picky youngest was sneaking bites of the mushrooms.
Storage Tips
Store leftover stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth if it gets too thick. Because of the sour cream and soup the texture can get off if frozen then thawed so I prefer to keep it fresh.
Ingredient Substitutions
For a lighter option swap sour cream with plain Greek yogurt which still provides that tangy creaminess. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef but swap beef broth for chicken broth. If mushrooms are not your thing try cream of chicken soup instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stroganoff over egg noodles for the classic pairing but mashed potatoes or rice are great alternatives. Add a side of steamed green beans or maple glazed carrots for color and a veggie boost. A simple green salad and crusty bread round out the meal perfectly.
This quick comforting stroganoff is an easy weeknight winner that feeds a crowd. Adjust seasonings and serve over your favorite starch for a satisfying meal.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What is the best beef to use for this dish?
Choose ground beef with some fat, like an 85/15 blend, for optimal flavor and moisture. Leaner options like 90/10 can be used but may be less juicy.
- → Can I substitute the sour cream?
Plain Greek yogurt can replace sour cream to maintain creaminess with a slightly tangy taste. Omitting it is possible but reduces richness.
- → What side dishes pair well with this ground beef dish?
Egg noodles are traditional, but steamed vegetables, buttered bread, or a fresh salad also complement the creamy beef beautifully.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers in a covered container in the fridge for up to three days. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce’s texture may separate when reheated.
- → Can I use other ground meats?
Ground chicken, turkey, or sausage can be used. Adjust broth type accordingly, such as using chicken broth instead of beef broth for poultry.