A Comforting Classic in Under 30 Minutes
There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty bowl of ground beef stroganoff. This classic dish has a way of bringing families together around the dinner table, and with this 30-minute recipe, you don’t have to wait long to indulge in its creamy, savory goodness. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is not only satisfying but also a fantastic way to sneak in some protein and carbs without breaking the bank.
"This recipe brought me back to my childhood! The flavors are spot on, and it’s so easy to make. My family loved it!" — A satisfied cook
Why You’ll Love This Dish
What sets this ground beef stroganoff apart is its simplicity and speed. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on hectic nights. This recipe is also budget-friendly, using everyday ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s kid-approved; who can resist creamy pasta tossed with seasoned ground beef? Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal to serve guests, this dish checks all the boxes.
The Cooking Process Explained
This 30-minute ground beef stroganoff is straightforward and breaks down into a few simple steps. You’ll start by cooking the egg noodles while the beef browns in a skillet. After draining the fat, you’ll create a creamy sauce using a simple roux, adding in beef broth and milk for depth and flavor. Finally, the noodles and sour cream are incorporated, resulting in a dish that is as comforting as it is delicious.
What You’ll Need
- 6 ounces Egg Noodles
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- ¼ cup Butter
- ¼ cup Flour
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1 ¼ cup Milk
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ¼ cup Sour Cream
Feel free to swap egg noodles for a gluten-free version or use ground turkey for a lighter alternative.
Directions to Follow
- Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, set them aside.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon until fully browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring until the sauce thickens once more, about 5-7 minutes. Aim for a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt, ensuring an even distribution of seasonings.
- Reduce heat to low and add the cooked egg noodles and browned beef to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- Gently fold in the sour cream, mixing until fully incorporated. This adds a delightful, tangy richness to your stroganoff.
- Serve hot with your favorite vegetables or a slice of garlic toast for a complete meal.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To elevate your serving experience, consider garnishing your ground beef stroganoff with fresh parsley or chives. Pair it with steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad for a delightful balance of flavors. For a little crunch, garlic toast or crusty bread can also be an excellent accompaniment.
How to Store & Freeze
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare, but it happens!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave. For longer storage, this stroganoff can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Always drain excess fat from the beef to keep your dish from becoming overly greasy.
- Whisk constantly when adding the liquids to the roux to ensure a lump-free sauce.
- Don’t overcook the sour cream, as higher heat can cause it to curdle. Stir it in gently at the end.
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? Try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for an earthy flavor and extra nutrients. You could also experiment with different types of noodles like penne or rotini for a fun twist. For a spicy kick, a dash of cayenne pepper or paprika can add a nice touch.
FAQ
How long does it take to make this dish?
You can have this creamy ground beef stroganoff ready in about 30 minutes!
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even shredded chicken can be great alternatives if you prefer a lighter dish.
How can I make it healthier?
For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat noodles and lean ground beef or turkey. Adding vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini can also boost the nutritional value.
Can I prepare this in advance?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can cook the beef and sauce ahead of time. Just store them separately and combine before serving for a quick meal!
Feel free to dive into this delicious, quick recipe today — your taste buds will thank you!
Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients
Pasta
- 6 ounces Egg Noodles Feel free to swap for gluten-free noodles.
Meat
- 1 pound Ground Beef Ground turkey can be used for a lighter version.
Sauce Ingredients
- ¼ cup Butter For creating a roux.
- ¼ cup Flour For thickening the sauce.
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1 ¼ cup Milk For creaminess.
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- ¼ cup Sour Cream Add for tangy richness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a pot of water to boil and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, set aside.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon until fully browned, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour, cooking for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring until the sauce thickens once more, about 5-7 minutes. Aim for a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt, ensuring an even distribution of seasonings.
Combine
- Reduce heat to low and add the cooked egg noodles and browned beef to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- Gently fold in the sour cream, mixing until fully incorporated. Serve hot.
