Ground Beef Stroganoff

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate budget-friendly, family-friendly comfort food. Featuring tender egg noodles, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy homemade sauce, this one-skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a dish you’ll turn to time and time again.

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Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Quick and easy, perfect for weeknight meals.
• Made with simple, pantry-staple ingredients.
• A rich, creamy, and savory flavor profile the whole family will enjoy.
• Customizable with your favorite add-ins like mushrooms or extra spices.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Pot: For boiling the egg noodles.
• Large Skillet: A must-have for browning the beef and making the sauce.
• Whisk: Ensures a smooth roux and creamy sauce.
• Colander: To drain the noodles efficiently.

Importance of Each Tool

• A large skillet allows for even cooking of ground beef and sauce preparation in one dish.
• A whisk is crucial to prevent lumps in the sauce and create a smooth, velvety texture.

Preparation Tips

• Pre-measure Ingredients: Have everything ready before starting for seamless cooking.
• Keep the Skillet Warm: After cooking the beef, leave the skillet warm to make sauce preparation faster.

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Ingredients

Noodles and Protein

• 6 ounces egg noodles
• 1 pound ground beef

For the Sauce

• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1¼ cup milk

Seasonings and Enhancers

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup sour cream

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Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Add egg noodles and cook according to package directions.
3. Drain the noodles in a colander and set aside.

Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces, until fully browned and no pink remains (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Drain excess fat and transfer beef to a plate. Set aside.

Make the Roux

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring continuously to create a smooth roux.

Prepare the Sauce

1. Gradually add beef broth to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
2. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Season the Sauce

1. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to distribute the flavors evenly.

Combine Ingredients

1. Reduce heat to low.
2. Add the cooked noodles and browned ground beef to the skillet. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.

Add the Sour Cream

1. Gently fold in sour cream, mixing until fully incorporated into the sauce. This step adds a rich, tangy flavor to the dish.

Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the dish hot with your favorite side vegetables or a slice of garlic bread.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for a pop of color and freshness.

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Notes

• Lean Ground Beef: Use lean beef for a creamier sauce with less grease. If using fattier beef, drain the fat before proceeding.
• Pasta Alternatives: Wide egg noodles work best, but rotini or bow tie pasta are good substitutes.
• Sour Cream Swap: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
• Optional Additions: Add ½ cup of sliced fresh mushrooms for extra depth. Avoid canned mushrooms for better texture and taste.
• Double the Recipe: This recipe is great for leftovers, so consider making extra for easy reheating later.

This creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff pairs beautifully with various side dishes and is customizable for every palate. In this section, we’ll dive into serving suggestions, how to perfect the recipe, and common mistakes to avoid.

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Serving Suggestions

Transform your stroganoff into a complete meal with these pairing ideas:

• Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or asparagus roasted with olive oil and garlic.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread spread with garlic butter complements the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Mashed Potatoes: Serve stroganoff over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.

8 Recommended Side Dishes

1. Steamed Green Beans: Add a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
2. Sautéed Mushrooms: Enhance the stroganoff’s earthy flavors with garlic-butter mushrooms.
3. Buttered Corn on the Cob: A sweet and simple side to complement the savory flavors.
4. Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
5. Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Light and refreshing with a hint of balsamic.
6. Creamy Coleslaw: Adds a cool crunch to the meal.
7. Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, seasoned with rosemary.
8. Fruit Salad: A chilled mix of berries and melons for a sweet contrast.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid and How to Perfect the Recipe

Mistake #1: Overcooking the Noodles

• Solution: Check the noodles 1-2 minutes before the package’s suggested cooking time. They should be al dente since they will absorb some sauce later.

Mistake #2: Lumpy Sauce

• Solution: Always whisk the roux continuously when adding liquid to prevent lumps. Use medium heat and add broth gradually.

Mistake #3: Underseasoning the Sauce

• Solution: Taste and adjust the seasoning before combining with beef and noodles. Add salt in small increments to avoid over-salting.

Mistake #4: Using High Heat for Sour Cream

• Solution: Stir in sour cream at low heat to prevent curdling. Gently mix until fully incorporated.

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Expert Tips for Elevating Your Stroganoff

• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a burst of flavor and color.
• Add Mushrooms: Sauté sliced cremini mushrooms and fold them into the sauce for an earthy depth.
• Creamier Texture: Mix a splash of heavy cream or extra sour cream into the sauce for added richness.
• Bold Flavors: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to deepen the flavor profile.

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Final Touches

By carefully pairing the stroganoff with complementary sides and following these tips, you’ll create a dish that’s not only comforting but also beautifully balanced. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a dinner, these small adjustments make a big impact.

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Recipe Tips

• Richer Sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream for an ultra-creamy consistency.
• Enhance Flavor: Incorporate a dash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard for a subtle tangy kick.
• Herbaceous Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill for added freshness and a pop of color.
• Customizable Add-ins:
• Fresh mushrooms (sautéed beforehand).
• Caramelized onions for sweetness.
• Frozen peas or spinach for added nutrients and color.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Storage:
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• For freezing, omit the sour cream during preparation. Freeze the stroganoff in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Add sour cream when reheating.
• Reheating:
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of milk or beef broth to restore creaminess.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute increments, stirring between intervals, to ensure even heating.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free noodles and replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

2. What’s a good substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as a tangy alternative.

3. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! However, for best results, freeze the dish without sour cream and stir it in after reheating.

4. What type of ground beef works best?

Lean ground beef (85% lean or higher) is ideal for a creamier sauce without excess grease.

5. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Certainly! Rotini, penne, or even fettuccine work well, though the texture and sauce coverage may vary slightly.

6. How can I add more vegetables?

Add sautéed mushrooms, frozen peas, or fresh spinach. These blend seamlessly into the dish and enhance its nutritional value.

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Conclusion

This creamy and savory Ground Beef Stroganoff is a timeless classic that delivers comfort and convenience. Its rich, velvety sauce, hearty noodles, and customizable options make it a standout dish for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll create a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. Pair it with your favorite sides, experiment with variations, and savor the versatility of this one-skillet wonder.

For more delicious recipes, check out our quick dinner ideas or explore classic comfort food favorites.

Enjoy every creamy, comforting bite!