Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
If you have a soft spot for cozy, satisfying dinners that come together quickly, then you are going to adore this Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe! This classic comfort food gets a simple yet delightful twist by using ground beef, making it a breeze to prepare without sacrificing any of that rich, creamy goodness. Loaded with savory ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a luscious, flavorful sauce, this dish is your go-to for busy weeknights or whenever you need a warm meal that feels like a hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but come together beautifully to build layers of texture and flavor in your Ground Beef Stroganoff. Each one plays a starring role, whether it’s the tender noodles, the creamy sauce, or the perfectly seasoned beef.
- 6 oz egg noodles: The soft, chewy base that soaks up all the delicious sauce perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides hearty, savory richness and cooks quickly, making this version super speedy.
- ¼ cup butter: Adds creaminess and helps create a smooth roux to thicken the sauce.
- ¼ cup flour: Combines with butter to form the roux that gives the sauce its velvety texture.
- 1 cup beef broth: Deepens the beef flavor in the sauce.
- 1 ¼ cup milk: Makes the sauce creamy and luscious, balancing the savory notes.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm, fragrant layer to the seasoning.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the umami and rounds out the flavor.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Introduces a subtle kick and enhances overall complexity.
- ¾ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors beautifully.
- ¼ cup sour cream: Finishes the dish with tangy richness and extra creaminess.
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the egg noodles and cook them until tender but still slightly firm to the bite, usually following the package instructions. Once done, drain them well and set aside. These noodles are the perfect canvas for soaking up that creamy Stroganoff sauce.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up into small bits as it browns evenly. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from feeling greasy, then transfer the beef to a plate and set aside for now.
Step 3: Make the Roux
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Slowly sprinkle in the flour while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. This mixture, called a roux, is what will thicken your sauce into a dreamy, smooth consistency. Keep whisking for around 2 minutes until it turns golden and smells nutty—this step is key for a rich sauce.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to stir constantly to keep the sauce silky and lump-free. Continue cooking and whisking for 3 to 4 minutes until you see the sauce begin to thicken into a luscious gravy that’s bursting with savory depth.
Step 5: Add the Milk
Pour the milk in slowly, stirring over medium heat. The milk will further thicken the sauce and lend a creamy texture that feels indulgent yet light. This process usually takes 5 to 7 minutes, resulting in a smooth, velvety sauce that hugs every piece of beef and noodle.
Step 6: Season the Sauce
Now it’s time to bring the flavor home. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all those wonderfully aromatic spices, balancing the savory richness with an inviting warmth.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Turn the heat down to low and add your cooked noodles and browned ground beef back into the skillet. Gently fold everything together so the noodles are completely coated in the creamy sauce and the beef is evenly dispersed, ensuring every bite is as comforting as the last.
Step 8: Finish with Sour Cream
The final touch is a generous scoop of sour cream gently stirred in to elevate the creaminess and add a slight tang that perfectly cuts through the richness, making it utterly irresistible. Stir until the sauce looks smooth and velvety, then it’s ready to serve!
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff
Garnishes
To make your Ground Beef Stroganoff even more delightful, consider sprinkling fresh chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note. A little extra cracked black pepper can also enhance the flavor just before serving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like steamed green beans or roasted carrots to add some crunch and vibrant color. Garlic toast or crusty bread is also a fantastic choice to mop up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Ground Beef Stroganoff inside hollowed-out bell peppers or atop a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting, elevated presentation. You can even use it as a filling for stuffed pasta shells if you want to impress guests with a unique take.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff keeps beautifully in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully, making the next-day meal even tastier.
Freezing
You can freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff for up to 2 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and prepare to be amazed at how well the flavors hold up.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened too much, a splash of milk or broth will loosen it back up and keep it creamy. Microwaving works too, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a lighter alternative, though the flavor and richness will be slightly different. You might want to add a bit more seasoning to make up for the milder taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Yes! Try substituting the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian twist that still delivers on comfort and creaminess.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. Use gluten-free flour for the roux and make sure your beef broth is gluten-free as well. Choose gluten-free noodles to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, you can cook it a little longer to reduce or add a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water at the end and stir until thickened.
What’s the best way to reheat Ground Beef Stroganoff without drying it out?
Reheat slowly over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain moisture. Avoid high heat or microwave reheating without stirring, to prevent drying or uneven heating.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Stroganoff is one of those dishes that just feels like home. It’s cozy, creamy, and ridiculously satisfying without any fuss. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So grab those simple ingredients and get ready to dig into a plate of comfort that your whole family will love!
