Beef Stroganoff Recipe with Ground Beef: A Quick & Easy Weeknight Meal
Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, yet surprisingly easy dinner? Look no further than this ground beef stroganoff recipe. This twist on the classic uses ground beef for a quicker, more budget-friendly approach, without sacrificing any of the creamy, savory goodness you expect. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
What Makes This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its:
- Speed and Simplicity: Using ground beef significantly reduces prep time compared to traditional stroganoff.
- Flavorful Depth: A rich blend of mushrooms, onions, and savory spices creates a complex flavor profile.
- Creamy Texture: The perfect balance of sour cream and beef broth results in a luxuriously creamy sauce.
- Budget-Friendliness: Ground beef is a more affordable option than traditional beef cuts, making this a delicious and economical meal.
- Versatility: Serve it over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes – the possibilities are endless!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button work well)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the beef and vegetable mixture. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth.
- Simmer and Thicken: Stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Serve your delicious ground beef stroganoff immediately over your favorite noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add some veggies: Include other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Make it richer: Use heavy cream instead of sour cream for an even creamier sauce.
- Use different mushrooms: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or oyster mushrooms.
- Make it ahead: This stroganoff tastes even better the next day! Prepare it ahead of time and reheat gently before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of ground meat?
A: While ground beef provides the best traditional flavor, you can experiment with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. The cooking time may need slight adjustment.
Q: How can I thicken the sauce further?
A: If your sauce is too thin, you can whisk in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water. Simmer for a few more minutes until thickened.
This easy ground beef stroganoff recipe is a perfect example of how a simple meal can be both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy!
