Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe: Comfort Food Made Easy

There’s something magical about comfort food. It wraps you in warmth, brings a sense of nostalgia, and makes you feel right at home. If you’re craving something hearty, creamy, and bursting with flavor, look no further than this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe. It’s a dish that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat, and it’s perfect for a cozy dinner with your family or even a quick weeknight meal. With easy-to-find ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your household.

Why Ground Beef Stroganoff Is the Ultimate Comfort Dish

Ground beef stroganoff has all the elements of comfort food: tender meat, earthy mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce. The beauty of this recipe is how versatile and approachable it is. Whether you’re cooking for a small family or a hungry crowd, this dish delivers bold flavors with little effort. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses pantry staples, making it an ideal go-to meal.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flavorful dish:

Ingredient	Quantity	Purpose
Olive oil	1 Tbsp	For sautéing and adding a touch of richness
Lean ground beef	1 lb	The protein base of the dish
Onion (diced)	1/2 medium	Adds sweetness and depth of flavor
Mushrooms (sliced)	1 lb	Provides an earthy, umami flavor
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves	Enhances the flavor with aromatic notes
All-purpose flour	2 Tbsp	Thickens the creamy sauce
Beef broth	1 cup	The liquid base that adds savory depth
Whipping cream	1 cup	Creates the creamy, luscious sauce
Sour cream	1/3 cup	Adds tanginess and a velvety texture
Worcestershire sauce	1 Tbsp	Introduces a hint of savory complexity
Salt	1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)	Balances and enhances all the flavors
Black pepper	1/2 tsp (adjust to taste)	Adds a subtle kick of spice

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ground Beef Stroganoff

1. Gather Your Ingredients

• Lay out all your ingredients to ensure everything is ready and within reach. This will make cooking seamless and stress-free.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the Ground Beef

• Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon.
• Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease, if necessary.

4. Add the Mushrooms

• Toss in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and begin to brown, about 8–10 minutes.

5. Create the Sauce Base

• Sprinkle the flour over the beef and mushroom mixture. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
• Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly.

6. Add the Creamy Elements

• Reduce the heat to low and stir in the whipping cream, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce.
• Season with salt and black pepper, adjusting to taste.

7. Simmer to Perfection

• Let the sauce simmer gently for 5–7 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out.

8. Serve and Enjoy

• Serve the stroganoff over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff

Choose the Right Beef

Using lean ground beef ensures the dish isn’t overly greasy. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Don’t Skip the Mushrooms

Mushrooms add a savory, umami flavor that’s essential to the dish. If you’re not a fan, you can replace them with zucchini or bell peppers.

Balance the Sauce

The combination of whipping cream and sour cream creates the perfect creamy texture. If you prefer a lighter sauce, use half-and-half instead of cream.

Variations to Try

Vegetarian Stroganoff

Replace the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Spicy Stroganoff

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy twist.

Cheesy Stroganoff

Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese to add a rich, cheesy flavor to the sauce.

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Nutritional Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on four servings):

Nutrient	Approx. Value	Notes
Calories	~420 kcal	Includes beef, sauce, and basic noodles
Protein	~25g	From beef and dairy
Carbohydrates	~10g	Minimal due to the sauce
Fats	~30g	Mostly from cream and beef

FAQs About Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

1. Can I make ground beef stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors develop even more if you make it a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

2. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of beef broth to refresh the sauce.

3. Can I freeze ground beef stroganoff?
You can freeze it without the sour cream, as it may separate upon thawing. Add the sour cream when reheating for a creamy finish.

4. What’s a good substitute for whipping cream?
Half-and-half or evaporated milk are great alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter option.

5. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even diced beef work well in this recipe.

6. Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use cornstarch instead of flour and serve over gluten-free pasta or rice.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Noodles: Egg noodles are a classic pairing for stroganoff.
• With Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a hearty, gluten-free option.
• With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes soak up the sauce beautifully.

Conclusion: Try This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tonight!

There’s no denying the comfort and satisfaction a plate of Ground Beef Stroganoff brings to the table. With its creamy sauce, hearty beef, and rich flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this easy recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s make dinner unforgettable tonight!

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