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Ground Beef Stroganoff
Nothing brings warmth to a dinner table like a hearty dish of ground beef stroganoff. It’s a recipe that has traveled through my family’s kitchen for years, bringing back memories of shared laughter and delicious aromas wafting through the air. This comfort food has a way of making everyone feel at home, no matter the occasion.
Growing up, it wasn’t just a meal; it was a masterpiece created by my mother. She would have the skillet sizzling as ground beef browned to perfection. The cream of mushroom soup would melt in, enveloping the beef in a savory creaminess that just beckoned to be tasted. My siblings and I would hover around the kitchen, eager to savor this delightful dish.
Today, this ground beef stroganoff recipe remains a favorite in my household. It stands as a reminder that simple ingredients can create extraordinary memories. Each bite offers a flavor-packed experience that makes it hard not to go back for seconds. Ground beef stroganoff not only fills the belly but also fills the heart with joy.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Fundamentals
Preparation/setup
Before diving into the cooking process, gather all ingredients for the perfect ground beef stroganoff. You’ll need 1 pound of ground beef, a can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of beef broth, a cup of sour cream, and 8 ounces of egg noodles. Season with salt and pepper to elevate the flavors.
Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions, then drain them and set them aside. This step sets the stage for the ground beef stroganoff, ensuring the noodles have the right texture to absorb all that creamy goodness.
Ingredients
The beauty of ground beef stroganoff lies in its simplicity. The ingredients blend seamlessly to create a comforting dish that delights the senses. The combination of rich beef broth and the creamy mushroom soup offers a delightful, savory flavor profile.
Having quality ground beef makes a noticeable difference in the dish. Choose lean ground beef for a balanced taste and healthy option. The optional chopped parsley adds a lovely freshness and vibrant color for garnishing.
Directions
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth, mixing until combined.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Perfecting Ground Beef Stroganoff
Technique
Browning the ground beef is crucial for building flavor in your ground beef stroganoff. Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding the beef. This promotes a nice sear, enhancing the taste. Remember to break apart the beef with a spatula for even cooking and optimal absorption of flavors.
After mixing in the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth, let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes. This step allows the sauce to thicken beautifully, creating that delicious creamy coating you’ll want in each serving.
Tips/tricks
A few tips can elevate your ground beef stroganoff. First, always taste as you go. Adjust the seasoning of salt and pepper based on your preferences. Consider using low-sodium beef broth to control the salt levels.
For an extra kick, sauté some onions or garlic along with the beef. They add depth to the flavor, making your stroganoff even more comforting.
Enhancing Your Ground Beef Stroganoff
Perfecting results
To ensure your ground beef stroganoff turns out perfectly every time, pay attention to the stove temperature. If the heat is too high, the sauce may not thicken properly. Conversely, if it’s too low, the flavors might not meld as deliciously as they could.
Another trick is to let the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to settle and meld together even further, enhancing the overall taste profile of your ground beef stroganoff.
Troubleshooting/variations
Sometimes things don’t go as planned. If your sauce seems too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. If it’s too thick, add a touch more beef broth or water to get the desired consistency.
For variations, feel free to substitute the ground beef. Ground turkey or chicken can work in a pinch, though the flavor will differ slightly. You may also swap out sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option if you’re looking to reduce calories while still maintaining creaminess.
Serving Ground Beef Stroganoff
Serving/presentation
Serving ground beef stroganoff makes the experience even more delightful. Use wide, shallow bowls to allow the creamy sauce to spread across the noodles beautifully. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a touch of elegance, making the meal visually appealing.
Pairing the stroganoff with crusty bread can be a fabulous touch. It allows everyone to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce, creating a more satisfying meal.
Pairings/storage
While enjoying ground beef stroganoff, consider side dishes that complement its flavor without overpowering it. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables can balance the richness of the dish nicely.
For storing leftovers, cool the stroganoff to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth to help revive its creamy texture.
Ground beef stroganoff serves as a perfect meal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Its warmth and comfort offer a timeless appeal that keeps family members coming back for more. Enjoy this wonderful dish—it’s a classic for a reason!
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Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty dish of ground beef stroganoff that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table, showcasing savory flavors with creamy mushroom sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 8 ounces of egg noodles
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked, then drain excess fat.
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth, mixing until combined.
- Bring to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss until evenly coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
For additional flavor, sauté onions or garlic with the beef. Use low-sodium beef broth for a healthier option.
