Ground Beef Recipe

“`html

If you are craving a comforting, hearty dinner that comes together quickly, this Ground Beef Stroganoff is an absolute winner. Loaded with rich, savory flavors from perfectly browned ground beef, tender mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to egg noodles, this dish has everything you want in a family-friendly meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this classic recipe shows just how versatile and delicious Ground Beef can be when paired with the right ingredients for a satisfying, cozy plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple staples that come together to create a luscious blend of flavors and textures, making this Ground Beef Stroganoff feel both hearty and special. Each item plays a crucial role—bringing creaminess, a hint of tang, or depth of flavor.

• 6 oz egg noodles: These provide the perfect base, soft and wide to catch all that creamy sauce.
• 1 lb ground beef: The star of the dish, offering savory richness and robust texture.
• ¼ cup butter: Adds lusciousness to the roux and helps thicken the sauce with a silky smooth finish.
• ¼ cup flour: Essential for creating the roux, which thickens the sauce into that perfect creamy consistency.
• 1 cup beef broth: Infuses the sauce with a deep, meaty flavor that complements the ground beef beautifully.
• 1 ¼ cup milk: Provides creaminess and balances the richness without overpowering the dish.
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle aromatic warmth that uplifts the overall flavor.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Delivers a gentle sweetness and depth reminiscent of caramelized onions.
• ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a gentle kick that cuts through the creamy sauce nicely.
• ¾ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors to make every bite flavorful.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Provides the classic tangy finish that makes Stroganoff so uniquely delicious.

How to Make Ground Beef

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Start by bringing a pot of water to a boil and cook your egg noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and keep them warm while you prepare the hearty Ground Beef part of the dish. This step ensures your noodles are perfectly tender and ready to soak up the creamy sauce.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly over 6 to 8 minutes. Once the pink is gone, drain any excess fat and set the beef aside. This browning step builds intense, savory flavor that is essential for a mouthwatering Stroganoff.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour gradually while whisking continuously for about 2 minutes. This creates a smooth roux, the foundation for your creamy sauce, which will thicken beautifully without any lumps if you keep stirring steadily.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Gradually whisk in the beef broth to the roux, stirring to avoid lumps. Let the mixture cook and thicken for 3 to 4 minutes, developing a rich, savory base that complements the ground beef wonderfully.

Step 5: Add the Milk and Seasonings

Slowly pour in the milk while stirring over medium heat, allowing the sauce to thicken further for around 5 to 7 minutes. Once creamy and smooth, stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This seasoning mix takes the sauce from good to unforgettable, layering subtle warmth and balance.

Step 6: Combine All Ingredients

Reduce the heat to low, then add the cooked noodles and browned ground beef back into the skillet. Stir carefully until everything is well combined and heated through, allowing the noodles to soak up the luscious sauce.

Step 7: Finish with Sour Cream

Finally, gently fold in the sour cream for that classic Stroganoff tang and creamy texture. Stir just until smooth and heated, making sure the sauce remains velvety with a slight tang that brightens each bite.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

This comforting Ground Beef Stroganoff is now ready to be served hot. Pair it with your favorite sides or garnish for a truly satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

How to Serve Ground Beef

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or chopped chives add a pop of bright color and a subtle herbal note that complements the richness of the Ground Beef Stroganoff beautifully. A light sprinkle just before serving makes the dish look as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

This creamy and savory dish pairs wonderfully with something light and fresh, like steamed green beans or a crisp mixed salad. Garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are also fantastic for sopping up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress your guests or simply mix up your routine, serve this Ground Beef Stroganoff in a mini bread bowl or over creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful twist. You could also layer it in a casserole dish with cheese and bake until bubbly for a comforting, family-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Ground Beef Stroganoff cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep well for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for meal prep or next-day meals.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain that creamy texture. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of egg noodles?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional and perfect for absorbing the creamy sauce, you can use pasta shapes like penne, fusilli, or even wide ribbons. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to its package directions.

Is ground beef the best meat choice for Stroganoff?

Ground beef works wonderfully because it cooks quickly and blends perfectly with the sauce. You can also try ground turkey, chicken, or even diced beef for a chunkier texture, but the classic richness comes from ground beef.

Can I add mushrooms to this recipe?

Definitely! Sautéed mushrooms add incredible earthy flavor and texture. Simply cook sliced mushrooms along with the ground beef or separately before adding to the sauce.

What can I substitute for sour cream if I don’t have any?

You can use Greek yogurt or crème fraîche as a great substitute for sour cream. Just make sure they are at room temperature and stir them in gently to keep the sauce creamy without curdling.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing once cooked?

Yes, Ground Beef Stroganoff freezes very well. For the best texture when reheating, consider slightly undercooking the noodles before freezing to avoid mushiness later on.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is a cozy, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own go-to classic for any night of the week!

“`