Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. This dish features a rich and creamy sauce combined with savory ground beef, making it a hearty meal that your family will love. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of beef broth, sour cream, and cream of mushroom soup creates a rich flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
• Family-Friendly: A hit with kids and adults alike, it appeals to everyone at the dinner table.
• Versatile Serving Options: While traditionally served over egg noodles, this dish pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes too.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an excellent option for those busy weeknights.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools to streamline your experience.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Ideal for browning ground beef evenly while providing enough space for mixing ingredients.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth sauce by breaking up lumps in the flour and broth mixture.
• Cutting board & sharp knife: Ensures safe and efficient chopping of onions and garlic.

Ingredients

This is the best Ground Beef Stroganoff. It’s a flavor-filled creamy hamburger gravy that is best served over egg noodles. Budget-friendly, family-friendly!

For the Meat Sauce

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (about 1-2 cloves)

For the Sauce

• 3 Tablespoons salted butter
• 3 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup sour cream
• 10.5 ounce can cream of mushroom soup
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving

• Cooked egg noodles (optional)

How to Make Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Brown the Meat

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef along with 1/2 cup diced yellow onion and 1 teaspoon minced garlic until thoroughly cooked and crumbled.

Step 2: Drain Excess Grease

Drain the ground beef to remove excess grease from the pan. Place the pan back on the stove over medium heat without adding the ground beef back in yet.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Add 3 tablespoons of salted butter to the pan and allow it to melt. Then add 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the pan. Whisk together until it absorbs the butter.

Step 4: Add Broth and Thicken

Pour in 1 1/2 cups of beef broth while whisking vigorously to eliminate any lumps. Increase heat to high and bring it to a boil for about 2-3 minutes until you notice slight thickening.

Step 5: Incorporate Cream Ingredients

Lower the temperature back down to medium. Whisk in 1 cup sour cream and a 10.5 ounce can of cream of mushroom soup until fully incorporated into the mixture.

Step 6: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper according to your preference. Taste as you go until it’s seasoned just right. If it becomes too thick, simply add a bit more beef broth.

Step 7: Reheat Beef

Return the browned ground beef back into the mixture until heated through.

Step 8: Serve

Serve your delicious Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or your preferred side dish. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting dish that pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Over Egg Noodles

• Serving it over cooked egg noodles creates a classic pairing that absorbs the rich flavors of the beef stroganoff.

With Fresh Parsley Garnish

• Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the creamy sauce.

On a Bed of Mashed Potatoes

• For a heartier option, serve the stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes. The potatoes soak up the delicious sauce perfectly.

With A Side of Steamed Vegetables

• Pair with steamed broccoli, carrots, or green beans for a nutritious balance to the rich dish.

In a Wrap

• Use flour tortillas or lettuce wraps to create a fun and portable version of this dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. This adds an enjoyable texture contrast.

How to Perfect Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

To ensure your Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and high-quality broth enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Control Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add more beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the mixture to simmer for a few extra minutes helps meld the flavors together beautifully.
• Experiment with Mushrooms: Try adding fresh mushrooms along with the cream of mushroom soup for added texture and flavor.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporating sautéed bell peppers or spinach can boost nutrition and add color to your dish.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

Pairing side dishes with Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread
   The perfect accompaniment, garlic bread is great for soaking up the delicious sauce.
2. Caesar Salad
   A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy stroganoff.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These provide added crunch and flavor while complementing the richness of the main dish.
4. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn on the cob adds a delightful burst of sweetness that balances out savory flavors.
5. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch that pairs nicely with this hearty meal.
6. Green Beans Almondine
   Sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds add elegance and flavor without overpowering the stroganoff.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff, it’s important to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture. Here are some mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the onion: Onions add depth to your dish. Always include them for a richer flavor.
• Not draining the beef: Excess grease can make your stroganoff too oily. Drain the beef after browning for better results.
• Overcooking the sauce: Letting the sauce boil too long can lead to a thick, gummy texture. Keep an eye on it to maintain creaminess.
• Ignoring seasoning: Underseasoning can result in a bland dish. Taste as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
• Using low-quality beef broth: The broth is key to flavor. Choose a high-quality or homemade broth for the best taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff in an airtight container.
• It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of the container for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stroganoff in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until heated thoroughly, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout. Add a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is a creamy and flavorful dish made with ground beef, onions, garlic, and a rich sauce served over egg noodles.

Can I customize Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Absolutely! You can add mushrooms, spinach, or even swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken based on your preference.

How do I make Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and ensure that your broth and cream of mushroom soup are also gluten-free.

What sides pair well with Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Serve it with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is not only delicious but also versatile enough for family dinners or meal prep. With simple ingredients and customization options, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Give it a try today!

---