Irresistible Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe for Cozy Nights
There’s something so comforting about a warm bowl of Ground Beef Stroganoff, isn’t there? This easy dinner recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a big hug at the end of a long day. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite in my household. It’s perfect for family dinners, quick weeknight meals, or even when you’re craving something hearty on a chilly evening.
What I love most about this Ground Beef Stroganoff is how simple it is to prepare while still delivering that classic comfort food experience. You’ll have dinner on the table in no time, making it a go-to option for busy days or when friends drop by unexpectedly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
– Quick and easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for those hectic weeknights.
– Family-friendly: Everyone loves the creamy sauce and tender noodles—kids will ask for seconds!
– Versatile: Great as a standalone dish or served with a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
– Comforting flavors: The combination of beef and creamy mushroom sauce is pure nostalgia.
– Budget-friendly: Using ground beef and simple pantry staples makes this an economical choice.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff.
For the Stroganoff
– 1 pound lean ground beef
– 1 small onion (finely diced)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– ½ teaspoon onion powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon pepper
– 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
This Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
– Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken as an alternative to ground beef for a lighter version.
– Add veggies: Throw in some mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
– Substitute the soup: Use a different flavor of condensed soup, like cream of chicken or even a dairy-free version if you prefer.
– Make it spicy: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat!
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
Step 1: Start Boiling Water for Noodles
Fill a pot with water and start it boiling as you cook the ground beef mixture. Having that water ready saves valuable time later when you’re ready to add your egg noodles.
Step 2: Cook the Beef Mixture
In a skillet pan over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with the onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the beef is no longer pink. This step develops rich flavors while ensuring all ingredients meld beautifully together. Make sure to drain any excess grease or liquid afterward for a cleaner dish.
Step 3: Prepare Gravy Mixture
Whisk together the contents of the gravy packet with cold water until well combined. Pour this mixture into your cooked ground beef. This creates a flavorful base that adds depth to your stroganoff.
Step 4: Stir in Creamy Ingredients
Add both sour cream and cream of mushroom soup into the skillet. Stir everything together until fully combined; this step brings all those delicious flavors together into one creamy sauce.
Step 5: Let It Simmer
Allow the mixture to simmer over medium or medium-low heat while you cook your noodles—about ten minutes should do it! This helps all those wonderful flavors meld together nicely.
Step 6: Cook Egg Noodles
Cook your wide egg noodles according to package instructions in your boiling water. Remember to add about one teaspoon of salt to enhance their flavor! Once they’re done cooking, drain them but don’t rinse; this keeps them perfectly coated with sauce later on.
Step 7: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked noodles along with dried parsley into that luscious creamy ground beef mixture. Gently stir everything together until well combined; this ensures every noodle is coated in that amazing sauce.
Step 8: Serve!
It’s time to dig in! Serve your Ground Beef Stroganoff hot and enjoy every comforting bite with family or friends.
Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Stroganoff
Making Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you can elevate your dish even more. Let’s dive into some actionable advice that will ensure your stroganoff is creamy, flavorful, and just perfect every time.
– Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef helps reduce excess fat without sacrificing flavor. It also keeps the dish lighter and healthier.
– Don’t rush the simmer: Allowing the mixture to simmer for a bit enhances the flavors. This step gives the gravy time to thicken and meld together beautifully with the sour cream.
– Season your noodles: Remember to add salt to the boiling water when cooking your egg noodles. This simple step will infuse flavor into the noodles, making each bite more delicious.
– Fresh herbs make a difference: If you have fresh parsley on hand, consider using it instead of dried. It adds a burst of freshness that brightens up this hearty dish.
– Customize with veggies: Feel free to add mushrooms or peas when cooking the ground beef for an extra dose of nutrients and flavor. Just make sure they are cooked through before adding the gravy mix.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff
Serving Ground Beef Stroganoff can be just as fun as cooking it! This creamy, savory dish deserves a presentation that matches its deliciousness. Here are some ideas to enhance your serving experience!
Garnishes
– Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to your dish.
– Sour cream dollop: A small dollop of sour cream on top provides extra creaminess and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
– Steamed broccoli: The slight crunch and vibrant green color of steamed broccoli complement the richness of stroganoff.
– Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside this dish for a satisfying pairing.
– Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely while adding freshness.
– Roasted vegetables: Roasted carrots or zucchini offer a naturally sweet contrast to savory stroganoff.
Make Ahead and Storage
Meal prep can make life so much easier during busy weeks! Here’s how you can store or prepare your Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time:
Storing Leftovers
– Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
– Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing
– To freeze, portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
– Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
– Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
– Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
If you’re curious about anything else regarding Ground Beef Stroganoff, here are some frequently asked questions!
Can I use other types of meat?
You certainly can! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if you’re looking for something leaner while still keeping it delicious.
Is there a substitute for sour cream?
Yes! Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier alternative while still providing that creamy texture.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free noodles and check that your gravy mix is also gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Ground Beef Stroganoff is truly one of those comforting meals that warms both body and soul. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. I encourage you to try this recipe soon; it’s bound to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy every bite!
Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients
Method
- Fill a pot with water and start it boiling as you cook the ground beef mixture.
- In a skillet pan over medium-high heat, cook and crumble the ground beef along with the onion, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess grease or liquid afterward.
- Whisk together the contents of the gravy packet with cold water until well combined. Pour this mixture into your cooked ground beef.
- Add both sour cream and cream of mushroom soup into the skillet. Stir everything together until fully combined.
- Allow the mixture to simmer over medium or medium-low heat while you cook your noodles—about ten minutes should do it.
- Cook your wide egg noodles according to package instructions in your boiling water. Drain them but don’t rinse.
- Add the cooked noodles along with dried parsley into the creamy ground beef mixture. Gently stir everything together until well combined.
- Serve your Ground Beef Stroganoff hot and enjoy every comforting bite.
