Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is a comforting and satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. This classic dish features tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce infused with savory flavors. Serve it over a bed of egg noodles for a hearty and delicious meal that everyone will love. Join us as we dive into the steps to create this timeless favorite!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 package (8 ounces) sliced baby portabella mushrooms
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 pound lean (at least 80% fat) ground beef – I used 93% lean
- 1 1/2 cups beef flavored broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sour cream (full fat)
- 6 cups cooked egg noodles
- Chopped Italian (flat-leaf) parsley, optional
Instructions:
- Sauté Mushrooms and Onions:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and chopped onions, and cook until softened and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Push the mushrooms and onions to the side of the skillet, then add the ground beef to the center. Cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the cooked ground beef and stir to combine, allowing the flour to cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
- Simmer and Thicken:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish with Sour Cream:
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined. The sour cream adds richness and creaminess to the sauce, giving it that classic stroganoff flavor.
- Serve Over Egg Noodles:
- Spoon the ground beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy the comforting and delicious flavors of this quick and easy meal!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Mushroom Variations: Feel free to use your favorite mushrooms in this recipe, such as cremini, button, or shiitake mushrooms, for a different flavor profile.
- Protein Options: While ground beef is traditional for stroganoff, you can also use ground turkey, ground chicken, or even diced beef steak or strips for variation.
- Creamy Substitutes: If you prefer a lighter version of stroganoff, you can substitute Greek yogurt or cream cheese for the sour cream, or use a combination of both.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Substitute xanthan gum or guar gum for the all-purpose flour to thicken the sauce without adding carbs.
- Serve the ground beef stroganoff over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles to keep it keto-friendly.
Low-Carb Version:
- Follow the keto version instructions above, making sure to adjust the ingredients and portion sizes to fit your low-carb lifestyle.
- Enjoy this low-carb ground beef stroganoff as a satisfying and comforting meal without the guilt of extra carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use pre-sliced mushrooms instead of baby portabella mushrooms? Yes, you can use any type of sliced mushrooms you prefer or have on hand. Pre-sliced button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms work well in this recipe.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later? Yes, ground beef stroganoff reheats well and can be made ahead of time. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
3. Can I freeze ground beef stroganoff? While you can freeze stroganoff, keep in mind that the texture of the sour cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. It’s best to freeze the ground beef mixture without the sour cream, then add the sour cream when reheating the dish.
4. What can I serve with ground beef stroganoff besides egg noodles? In addition to egg noodles, you can serve ground beef stroganoff over mashed potatoes, rice, or even roasted vegetables for a low-carb option.
Quick and Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff is a versatile and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender mushrooms, and flavorful ground beef, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with keto and low-carb variations available, you can enjoy all the comfort of stroganoff without the extra carbs. So gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the simplicity of this classic dish with a modern twist!
