Creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff Noodles
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can beef broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step
1. Cook the egg noodles according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Melt the butter in the skillet with the beef and vegetables.
6. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
7. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, making sure to break up any lumps.
8. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
9. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream, milk or half-and-half, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
11. Gently stir in the cooked egg noodles until they are well coated with the sauce.
12. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
13. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Understanding Stroganoff
Stroganoff is a dish traditionally made with beef strips in a creamy sauce. This version uses ground beef, which is a budget-friendly and convenient substitute.
It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. The creamy sauce and tender noodles make it a crowd-pleaser.
### History of Stroganoff
The original Beef Stroganoff is said to have originated in Russia in the mid-19th century. It’s named after the Stroganov family, who were wealthy and influential.
Different versions of the dish have evolved over time, with variations in the type of meat used and the ingredients in the sauce. The use of sour cream is a key characteristic.
Ground beef stroganoff offers a quicker and more accessible way to enjoy the flavors of the classic dish.
### Key Ingredients and Their Roles
Ground beef provides the hearty protein base for this stroganoff. Choose lean ground beef to minimize grease.
Sour cream is essential for the creamy texture and tangy flavor. Full-fat sour cream is recommended for the richest result, but you can use light sour cream to reduce fat.
Mushrooms add an earthy and savory element to the dish. You can use cremini, white button, or any other variety of mushrooms you prefer.
### Variations and Customizations
There are many ways to customize ground beef stroganoff to suit your taste. Consider adding different vegetables, spices, or herbs.
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff
Achieving a creamy, flavorful, and well-balanced dish is easy with a few key tips. Follow these recommendations for the best results.
### Achieving the Perfect Creamy Sauce
The key to a creamy sauce is the roux, which is a mixture of butter and flour cooked together. This thickens the sauce and prevents it from being watery.
Make sure to cook the roux for at least a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. Whisk in the beef broth gradually to avoid lumps.
Adding the sour cream off the heat is important, as high heat can cause it to curdle.
### Selecting the Right Noodles
Egg noodles are the traditional choice for stroganoff. Their wide, flat shape holds the creamy sauce well.
You can use other types of noodles, such as fettuccine or wide ribbon pasta, but egg noodles are highly recommended.
Cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook slightly when added to the sauce.
### Enhancing the Flavor Profile
Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking. Taste the sauce and add more salt, pepper, Dijon mustard, or Worcestershire sauce as needed.
A pinch of nutmeg or a dash of hot sauce can add an interesting twist to the flavor.
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a bright and fresh element to the dish.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Ground beef stroganoff is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Consider these serving suggestions and pairings.
### Serving Suggestions
Serve the stroganoff hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives. A dollop of extra sour cream can add extra richness.
For a complete meal, serve it with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
It also reheats well, making it a great option for meal prepping or leftovers.
### Side Dish Pairings
A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a refreshing contrast to the creamy stroganoff.
Steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus are healthy and flavorful side dishes.
Garlic bread or crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
### Drink Pairings
A dry red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot, pairs well with the rich flavors of the stroganoff.
A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can also be a good choice.
For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime.
Health Considerations
While stroganoff is a comforting and satisfying dish, it can be high in calories and fat. Consider these health considerations when preparing or enjoying it.
### Reducing Fat and Calories
Use lean ground beef to reduce the amount of fat in the dish. Drain off any excess grease after browning the beef.
Use light sour cream instead of full-fat sour cream to reduce the calorie and fat content.
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish to add fiber and nutrients.
### Potential Allergens
This recipe contains dairy (sour cream and butter) and gluten (flour and noodles).
If you have a dairy allergy or intolerance, you can use dairy-free sour cream and butter substitutes.
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and gluten-free noodles.
### Nutritional Benefits
Ground beef stroganoff provides protein, vitamins, and minerals.
The mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants and fiber.
Adding vegetables to the dish increases its nutritional value.
Storage and Reheating
Proper storage and reheating techniques will ensure that your ground beef stroganoff remains safe and delicious.
### Storing Leftovers
Allow the stroganoff to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
Store it in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the stroganoff for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
### Reheating Instructions
Reheat the stroganoff in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Add a splash of milk or beef broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it frequently to prevent it from drying out.
FAQ
### Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken as a substitute for ground beef. Adjust cooking times as needed.
### Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stroganoff ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat it before serving.
### Can I freeze stroganoff?
Yes, you can freeze stroganoff. However, the sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. Stir well after reheating.
### What can I add to make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
### Can I use cream cheese instead of sour cream?
While not traditional, you can use cream cheese for a richer and creamier texture. Use about half the amount of sour cream called for in the recipe.
