Ground Beef Stroganoff

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food! With tender noodles, rich and creamy sauce, and flavorful ground beef, this dish is a 30-minute mealtime miracle. It’s budget-friendly, family-approved, and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re serving a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe delivers satisfaction every time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Simple ingredients: Pantry staples and fresh beef make it accessible.
• Customizable: Add veggies or swap ingredients to fit your needs.
• Comforting flavor: Creamy, savory, and filling.
• Perfect for meal prep: Reheats beautifully for leftovers.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot: For boiling the noodles.
• Large skillet: For browning ground beef and making the sauce.
• Whisk: Ensures a lump-free sauce.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and folding ingredients.

Importance of Each Tool

• A large skillet ensures even cooking for the sauce and beef.
• A whisk prevents lumps in the roux and keeps the sauce silky.
• A large pot provides enough room for the noodles to cook evenly.

Preparation Tips

• Prep ahead: Measure all ingredients before starting.
• Use fresh spices: This enhances the dish’s flavor.
• Cook pasta al dente: Avoid overcooking to maintain texture.

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 6 ounces egg noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• ¼ cup butter
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 ¼ cups milk
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ cup sour cream

Optional Additions

• Mushrooms: ½ cup sliced button or cremini mushrooms for added depth.
• Parsley: Freshly chopped for garnish.

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Noodles

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

2. Brown 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 (6-8 minutes).
3. Drain excess fat and transfer beef to a plate.

3. Make the Roux

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour, cooking for 2 minutes while stirring continuously to form a roux.

4. Add the Broth and Milk

1. Gradually pour beef broth into the roux, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
2. Cook until the sauce begins to thicken (3-4 minutes).
3. Slowly whisk in milk and stir until thickened (5-7 minutes).

5. Season the Sauce

1. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

6. Combine Everything

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

7. Add Sour Cream

1. Gently fold in sour cream to finish the sauce.
2. Mix until fully incorporated.

8. Serve

1. Serve immediately while hot.
2. Pair with your favorite side dishes like garlic bread or steamed veggies.

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Pro Tips

• For a richer sauce: Add a splash of heavy cream with the milk.
• Substitute protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Enhance the flavor: Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard.

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Serving Suggestions

• Family-style serving: Present the stroganoff in a large skillet or bowl for easy self-serve.
• Garnish: Top with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color.
• Accompaniments: Offer a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors.
• Kid-friendly plating: Serve in smaller portions with a drizzle of extra sauce.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe

Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the noodles: Overdone noodles can become mushy when mixed with the sauce.
2. Skipping the roux: The roux is essential for a creamy, lump-free sauce.
3. Using low-fat dairy: Opt for whole milk or sour cream for the best texture and flavor.
4. Not seasoning adequately: Adjust salt and spices to your preference to enhance flavor.
5. Rushing the sauce: Allow enough time for the sauce to thicken properly.

Tips to Perfect the Recipe

• Stir the sauce continuously to prevent lumps or scorching.
• Cook the noodles just until al dente, as they will absorb some sauce.
• Taste as you go to ensure seasoning is balanced.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to thin it.

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Side Dish Recommendations

This rich and hearty dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides or those with complementary textures. Here are eight delicious ideas:

1. Garlic Bread

Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

2. Steamed Vegetables

Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots add a fresh contrast to the dish’s richness.

3. Mixed Green Salad

A crisp salad with a zesty vinaigrette helps balance the meal’s creamy flavors.

4. Mashed Potatoes

For extra comfort, serve the stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes instead of noodles.

5. Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon complements the savory stroganoff.

6. Buttered Peas

Simple and sweet, buttered peas add a bright pop of color and flavor.

7. Cucumber and Dill Salad

A tangy cucumber and dill salad adds a refreshing element to the meal.

8. Rice Pilaf

Swap noodles for a bed of rice pilaf, which soaks up the sauce beautifully.

Recipe Tips

• Adjust sauce thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or beef broth. If too thin, simmer uncovered for a few minutes until it thickens.
• Enhance flavor: A dash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard can deepen the dish’s savory profile.
• Make it your own: Add vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or spinach to incorporate more nutrients.
• Double the recipe: This dish reheats well, so making extra ensures you have an easy meal for the next day.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

• Cool the dish: Let the stroganoff cool to room temperature before storing.
• Store in an airtight container: Place leftovers in a sealed container to prevent the sauce from drying out.
• Shelf life: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Use freezer-safe containers: Divide into portions and store in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Best for freezing: Freeze the sauce and noodles separately to maintain the best texture.
• Shelf life: Freeze for up to 2 months.

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Reheating Instructions

Stovetop

1. Transfer stroganoff to a skillet or saucepan.
2. Reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Add a splash of milk or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency.

Microwave

1. Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish.
2. Cover loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap.
3. Heat on medium power in 1-minute increments, stirring between intervals.

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FAQs

1. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free noodles and substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch for the roux.

2. What’s the best way to add vegetables?

Sauté vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach in the skillet after browning the beef. Remove and set them aside, then add them back when combining the sauce with the noodles.

3. Can I substitute sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a great alternative, offering similar tanginess and creaminess.

4. What protein alternatives can I use?

Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes work well if you want to switch things up.

5. Why is my sauce lumpy?

Lumpy sauce usually occurs if the roux isn’t whisked properly or the liquid is added too quickly. Gradually whisk in the broth and milk to avoid lumps.

6. What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Stir in a bit of milk or broth to loosen the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.

7. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and beef mixture in advance and store separately from the noodles. Combine and reheat when ready to serve.

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Conclusion

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is a quick, easy, and comforting meal that satisfies every time. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or planning for leftovers, this dish is versatile, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Follow the tips above for the best results and pair it with your favorite sides for a complete, balanced meal.

Enjoy this creamy, hearty classic with your loved ones and make it a go-to recipe in your rotation! If you’re looking for more delicious dinner ideas, check out our other family-friendly recipes.