Name: Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 lb lean ground beef; 1/2 medium onion (diced); 1 lb mushrooms (sliced); 2 garlic cloves (minced); 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/3 cup sour cream; 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

Introduction to Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delightful twist on the traditional beef stroganoff. Instead of using steak strips, this recipe utilizes ground beef, creating a rich and creamy mushroom sauce that perfectly clings to your choice of pasta, rice, or grains. Whether you're sitting down to a cozy dinner at home or entertaining friends, this dish brings comfort and warmth to the table. The combination of savory beef, sautéed mushrooms, and a luscious cream sauce comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for busy nights.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Busy Young Professionals

For those of us navigating the fast-paced world of work and personal commitments, finding time to cook can be a challenge. This ground beef stroganoff recipe is designed with your hectic lifestyle in mind. With a prep time of only 10 minutes and a cook time of about 25 minutes, you'll have a wholesome meal ready in less than 35 minutes. Plus, the ingredients are simple and often found in your pantry or local grocery store—so no special trips are needed! Not only is it quick, but it’s also versatile; you can effortlessly scale the recipe up for gatherings or down for a cozy night in. Embrace the ease of cooking while still enjoying a satisfying homemade meal that feels like a treat.

For more kitchen tips catered to young professionals, check out resources from The Kitchn and Serious Eats.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Essential Ingredients

Creating a flavorful ground beef stroganoff recipe starts with a robust set of essential ingredients. Here's what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
1 lb lean ground beef: The star of the dish, providing texture and flavor.
½ medium onion, diced: This adds a lovely aromatic base.
1 lb mushrooms, sliced: They bring uh-mazing umami, elevating the dish.
2 garlic cloves, minced: A must-have for that extra layer of flavor.
2 tablespoon all-purpose flour: To help thicken your sauce.
1 cup beef broth: For deepening the savory profile.
1 cup heavy whipping cream: This gives the sauce its creamy goodness.
⅓ cup sour cream: It adds a delightful tanginess.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A secret ingredient that enhances flavor.
Salt and pepper: To taste, ensuring perfection in every bite.

Optional Add-ins for Extra Flavor

Looking to elevate your ground beef stroganoff recipe even further? Consider these optional add-ins:

Fresh herbs: Parsley or thyme can garnish your dish with vibrancy.
Dijon mustard: A spoonful can add a nice zesty kick.
Spinach: A handful of fresh or frozen spinach offers a nutritional boost.
Cheese: Adding Parmesan can deepen the savory notes.

Feel free to mix and match according to your taste preferences. Cooking is all about experimenting, after all!

Step-by-step Preparation of Ground Beef Stroganoff

Creating a delightful ground beef stroganoff recipe at home is simple and can be done in just a few easy steps. Follow along as we guide you through this comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner!

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients ready. Here’s what you need:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef
½ medium onion, diced
1 pound mushrooms, sliced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup beef broth
1 cup heavy whipping cream
⅓ cup sour cream
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)

Having everything prepped and within reach will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable!

Sauté the Ground Beef and Vegetables

Start by preheating a heavy, deep pan over medium-high heat, adding the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add in your ground beef. Break the meat apart and cook until it’s browned. This step is crucial because it develops the rich flavors that will infuse your stroganoff.

Next, toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and golden brown, which will take about 3-5 minutes. Now it’s time to add the sliced mushrooms! Cook for another 5 minutes until they soften. If you notice a lot of juice from the mushrooms, let it evaporate to enhance the flavor.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Once your vegetables are cooked to perfection, sprinkle in the all-purpose flour. Stir well to ensure it’s fully incorporated; this helps thicken the sauce. Then it’s time to elevate this dish with flavor! Slowly add the beef broth, heavy whipping cream, Worcestershire sauce, and the salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle simmer — this will take about 2-3 minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let your ground beef stroganoff cook for about 5 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, and the sauce will thicken slightly. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Serve It Up!

Finally, remove your pan from the heat and fold in the sour cream until well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. When ready to serve, this dish pairs wonderfully with egg noodles, rice, or even potatoes.

So, gather your friends or family, and enjoy this comforting ground beef stroganoff, a dish that’s sure to impress without taking hours in the kitchen! Happy cooking!

Variations on Ground Beef Stroganoff

Turkey Bacon Stroganoff Twist

If you're looking to lighten up your meal, try this Turkey Bacon Stroganoff Twist. Simply replace traditional bacon with crisp turkey bacon, adding it alongside the onions for a savory crunch. The smoky flavor will elevate your ground beef stroganoff recipe, enhancing both taste and texture without the heaviness. Plus, turkey bacon has fewer calories, making your dish a bit guilt-free!

Vegetarian Stroganoff Alternative

For a delicious vegetarian option, swap out the ground beef entirely. Use a mix of lentils or mushrooms as a hearty base. Add sautéed onions, garlic, and a variety of vegetables like spinach or zucchini to keep it vibrant and nutritious. This vegetarian stroganoff can easily be creamy with a blend of coconut cream or cashew cream, making it just as rich and delightful as the original. Enjoy the comfort without the meat!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Selecting the Right Cut of Meat

For this ground beef stroganoff recipe, lean ground beef is your best bet. Look for ground chuck or sirloin, as they provide the right balance of flavor and fat without being too greasy. Ground beef with around 80% lean content offers a rich taste while keeping things deliciously tender.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Mushrooms

To achieve that perfect mushroom texture, slice them evenly; this ensures they cook uniformly. Sauté them over medium-high heat until golden brown. Avoid crowding the pan, as this causes the mushrooms to steam instead of brown, which can impact texture. Interested in different types of mushrooms? Check out this guide to culinary mushrooms for more ideas!

With these tips, your ground beef stroganoff is bound to be a flavorful hit!

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Perfect Side Dishes to Compliment Your Stroganoff

When serving your ground beef stroganoff recipe, consider pairing it with delicious side dishes to enhance the meal. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness, while steamed green beans or sautéed broccoli provide a vibrant contrast. For those chilly evenings, warm crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Serve It

Want to jazz things up? Try serving your ground beef stroganoff over baked potatoes or polenta for a unique spin. Alternatively, consider using it as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or even as a savory topping for a homemade pizza. Each bite offers endless possibilities that take your meal to the next level!

Time Breakdown for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Preparation Time

With just 10 minutes of prep, you can set the stage for a delightful dinner. While your ingredients are fresh and ready, it’s the perfect time to gather your cooking tools and maybe even put on a bit of music. Cooking is all about enjoying the process!

Cooking Time

The 25 minutes it takes to cook this ground beef stroganoff recipe is where the magic happens. It allows the flavors to mingle beautifully, transforming simple ingredients into a savory delight that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Total Time

In just 35 minutes, you can create a comforting, gourmet meal. Quick yet satisfying, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

For a more detailed guide on the cooking process, check out our step-by-step instructions. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Calories Per Serving

Each serving of this delectable ground beef stroganoff recipe contains approximately 400 calories, making it a satisfying yet balanced meal option.

Protein Content

Packed with 28 grams of protein per serving, this dish is perfect for fueling your post-work activities or simply satisfying your hunger after a long day.

Sodium Levels

With roughly 600 milligrams of sodium per serving, it’s advisable to adjust the seasoning to your taste if you’re watching your sodium intake. Substituting low-sodium beef broth can be an excellent way to enjoy this dish while keeping salt levels in check.

For more detailed nutritional information, check out Healthline and tailor this classic dish to suit your dietary needs!

FAQs about Ground Beef Stroganoff

Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead?
Absolutely! While our ground beef stroganoff recipe uses ground beef for that rich flavor, ground turkey is a fantastic substitute. It’s leaner and can provide a different yet delectable taste. Just keep in mind that ground turkey might require a little more seasoning, so feel free to adjust the spices to suit your preference.

How to Store Leftover Stroganoff?
Storing your leftovers is simple! Transfer the cooled ground beef stroganoff to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it later on, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to bring back that creamy texture.

What Can I Substitute for Sour Cream?
Running low on sour cream? No worries! Greek yogurt works wonderfully as a substitute and adds a nice tang. You can also use cream cheese or a non-dairy yogurt if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Each choice will bring its unique flavor, so pick what suits your taste best!

Feel free to ask more questions, and happy cooking!

Conclusion on Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

In conclusion, this ground beef stroganoff recipe offers a quick, flavorful meal that doesn’t compromise on comfort. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. Give it a try, and enjoy the heartwarming flavors that bring everyone to the table!

For more delicious recipes, check out Natasha's Kitchen.