Ground Beef Stroganoff

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort, then this Ground Beef Stroganoff is just the ticket! This dish is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights when I need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With tender ground beef enveloped in a creamy sauce, it’s a dish that feels like a big hug from your favorite aunt.

What makes this recipe special is how quickly it comes together—perfect for those evenings when time is tight but you still want something hearty. Plus, it’s a hit with the whole family! Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or during family gatherings, Ground Beef Stroganoff is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes from start to finish, you can have a delicious dinner on the table in no time.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love this creamy comfort food, making it perfect for family meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the sauce ahead of time and simply cook the noodles when you’re ready to serve.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of savory ground beef and rich sauce creates an unforgettable flavor profile.
• Customizable: This recipe is flexible, allowing you to mix and match ingredients based on what you have at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! For this Ground Beef Stroganoff, you’ll need items that are likely already in your pantry or fridge. Let’s dive into what you’ll need:

For the Beef Mixture

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper

For the Sauce

• 1 packet (0.87 oz) brown gravy mix
• 1 cup cold water
• 1 can (10 oz) cream of mushroom soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley

For the Noodles

• 1 bag (12 oz) wide egg noodles

Variations

One of the best things about this Ground Beef Stroganoff is its flexibility! You can easily make substitutions based on dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add Veggies: Incorporate some mushrooms or spinach into the sauce for added nutrition and flavor.
• Make it Creamy Vegan: Replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative and use lentils for protein.
• Switch up the Noodles: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free noodles if you’re looking for healthier options.

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Start Boiling Water

Fill a pot with water and set it on high heat to bring it to a boil while you prepare the beef mixture. Having boiling water ready means you can easily add your egg noodles once your meat is cooked!

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the lean ground beef along with finely diced onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until no longer pink. This step not only cooks your meat but also infuses delicious flavors into it. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep your dish light!

Step 3: Add Gravy Mix

Whisk together the contents of the brown gravy packet with cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture over your cooked ground beef. This adds depth and richness to your dish.

Step 4: Creamy Goodness

Stir in both cream of mushroom soup and sour cream until everything is well combined. This creamy blend gives that classic stroganoff texture we all crave!

Step 5: Simmer It Down

Allow your mixture to simmer over medium or medium-low heat while your noodles cook—about 10 minutes will do! This step helps all those beautiful flavors meld together.

Step 6: Cook Your Noodles

Cook your wide egg noodles according to package instructions. Remember to add about 1 teaspoon of salt to your boiling water; it’ll enhance the flavor of your noodles! Once they’re cooked, drain them without rinsing—keeping that starch helps sauces stick better.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Gently fold in both cooked noodles and dried parsley into that creamy ground beef mixture. Stir until everything is beautifully combined.

Step 8: Serve Up!

Spoon generous portions onto plates or bowls and enjoy! Each bite will be filled with comforting flavors that remind you why this recipe has become such a cherished favorite.

Now go ahead—dive into this deliciously easy Ground Beef Stroganoff tonight!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Stroganoff

Making Ground Beef Stroganoff can be a breeze if you keep a few helpful tips in mind!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef reduces excess fat, making your dish healthier while still keeping it flavorful. It also helps the sauce maintain a creamy consistency without being overly greasy.

• Whisk the gravy mix well: Taking the time to whisk the gravy mix with cold water ensures there are no lumps. This creates a smoother sauce that blends beautifully with the other ingredients.

• Don’t rinse the noodles: After cooking the egg noodles, draining them without rinsing helps retain some of the starch. This natural starch will help the sauce cling better to the noodles, enhancing flavor in every bite.

• Simmer gently: Allowing your beef mixture to simmer for a bit helps all those wonderful flavors meld together. A gentle simmer ensures your stroganoff becomes rich and creamy without overcooking any ingredients.

• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add extra spices or herbs like thyme or paprika if you want to personalize your stroganoff. This can give it a unique twist that suits your taste preferences perfectly!

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

Serving Ground Beef Stroganoff is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary sides. Here are some ideas to make your meal shine!

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled on top not only adds a pop of color but also brings a fresh flavor that lightens up the creamy dish.
• Sour cream dollop: A small dollop of sour cream on top right before serving adds an extra layer of richness and makes for an appealing visual contrast.

Side Dishes

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the stroganoff while providing a satisfying crunch.
• Garlic bread: Pairing your meal with warm garlic bread offers a delightful way to soak up any leftover sauce from your plate, making every bite enjoyable.
• Mixed green salad: A light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides freshness and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the stroganoff.
• Roasted carrots: Sweet roasted carrots add depth and sweetness, complementing the savory flavors of your ground beef stroganoff beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll have an inviting meal that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy your delicious creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Ground Beef Stroganoff is an excellent recipe for meal prep! You can prepare it in advance and store it, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Here’s how to make the most of your delicious dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stroganoff to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the stroganoff cool down before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Yes, ground turkey is a fantastic lean alternative that works well in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed!

How can I make my Ground Beef Stroganoff healthier?

To make this dish healthier, consider using whole grain noodles, low-fat sour cream, and adding more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.

What can I serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a simple side salad. You could also enjoy it over rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff without gravy mix?

Absolutely! You can create your own gravy by using beef broth, flour, and seasonings instead of pre-packaged mix.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Ground Beef Stroganoff! It’s a delightful dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Whether you’re cooking for family or just treating yourself after a busy day, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!