Oh, the comfort of a warm, creamy dish on a chilly evening—it’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket of flavor. This ground beef stroganoff, a recipe I’ve tweaked just a smidge over the years, has become a family staple, often accompanied by stories of last winter’s blizzard or the time the power went out during dinner. It’s an easy dish, yet somehow tastes like a labor of love, bringing together the earthy aromas of mushrooms and the tang of sour cream in a symphony that’s both familiar and surprising, much like finding an old photograph tucked inside a book.
Steps
- Heat olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the beef. Sauté until the onions become translucent and slightly golden.
- Incorporate sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing any excess liquid to evaporate.
- Mix in flour, ensuring it is fully combined without any lumps.
- Pour in beef broth, heavy whipping cream, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and gradually mix in sour cream until fully integrated.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve the stroganoff over your choice of noodles, rice, or potatoes.
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef (90% lean recommended)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
FAQ
- What type of ground beef is best for Stroganoff?
- It is recommended to use lean ground beef, such as 90% lean, to avoid excess fat in the creamy sauce. If using beef with higher fat content, you should brown it first and strain off the excess fat before adding it to the sauce.
- Can I freeze leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff?
- Yes, you can freeze the stroganoff in an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. Allow it to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop.
- How should I serve Ground Beef Stroganoff?
- Ground Beef Stroganoff is versatile and can be served over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, you can serve it over roasted vegetables.
- What is the origin of Beef Stroganoff?
- Beef Stroganoff originated in Russia in the early 1800s, created by the personal chef of Count Stroganoff, a dignitary in the court of Alexander III. The dish was named after the Count.
- How do I store leftover stroganoff?
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you served the stroganoff with noodles, keep the pasta separate from the sauce to prevent the noodles from absorbing the sauce overnight.
Tips
- Choose Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 90% lean ground beef to ensure your dish isn’t overly greasy. If you use beef with a higher fat content, make sure to brown it first and drain the excess fat before adding it to the cream sauce.
- Avoid Lumpy Sauce: When adding flour to the skillet, stir thoroughly to integrate it well and prevent lumps. This will help create a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Store Separately: If you’re serving the stroganoff with noodles, store the pasta separately from the sauce in the refrigerator. This prevents the noodles from absorbing the sauce and becoming mushy.
- Garnish for Flavor and Presentation: Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill on top of your dish before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also complements the rich, beefy flavors with a fresh contrast.
Equipment
- Dutch Oven or Deep Skillet: A heavy-duty cooking pot or pan that can be used for browning the beef and cooking the stroganoff.
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Useful for stirring the meat and sauce.
