This 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. With its creamy sauce and hearty beef, it appeals to both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or lunch, this dish is quick to prepare and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a comforting meal in just half an hour!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
- Family Favorite: Loved by kids and adults, ensuring everyone will enjoy their meal.
- Versatile: Pairs well with various vegetables or garlic toast for a complete meal.
- Rich Flavor: The creamy sauce combined with seasonings creates a mouthwatering dish.
Tools and Preparation
To get started on your Ground Beef Stroganoff, gather the essential tools that will make cooking a breeze.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot
- Whisk
- Measuring Cups
- Plate
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef and combining all ingredients efficiently.
- Whisk: Ensures a smooth roux by preventing lumps when mixing flour with liquids.
Ingredients
This Ground Beef Stroganoff is budget-friendly, family-friendly and is ready in just 30 minutes. Consider doubling the recipe, because everyone always has seconds!
For the Noodles
- 6 ounces Egg Noodles
For the Beef Mixture
- 1 pound Ground Beef
- ¼ cup Butter
- ¼ cup Flour
- 1 cup Beef Broth
For the Sauce
- 1 ¼ cup Milk
- ½ teaspoon Garlic Powder
- ½ teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Salt
For Finishing Touches
- ¼ cup Sour Cream
How to Make 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
- Bring a pot of water to boil.
- Cook the egg noodles according to package directions.
- Once cooked, set aside for later.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
- While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon (about 6-8 minutes).
- Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Roux
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once melted, add flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
Step 4: Thicken with Broth
- Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Continue whisking until the sauce begins to thicken (about 3-4 minutes).
Step 5: Add Milk for Creaminess
- Slowly whisk in milk while stirring over medium heat until thickened again (about 5-7 minutes).
- Ensure that the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 6: Season the Sauce
- Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Step 7: Combine Ingredients
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add cooked egg noodles and browned ground beef to the skillet.
- Stir until everything is well combined and heated through.
Step 8: Finish with Sour Cream
- Gently stir in sour cream until fully incorporated into the sauce.
- This adds a rich, tangy flavor to your dish.
Step 9: Serve
Serve hot alongside your favorite vegetables or garlic toast for a complete meal!
How to Serve 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
Serving 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.
With Garlic Toast
- Toast slices of your favorite bread and spread with garlic butter for a crunchy side that complements the creamy stroganoff.
Pairing with Steamed Vegetables
- Broccoli, carrots, or green beans lightly steamed add a fresh crunch and color to your plate, balancing the richness of the stroganoff.
On a Bed of Greens
- Serve the stroganoff over fresh spinach or mixed greens for a lightened-up meal that adds nutrients and vibrant flavor.
Accompanying with a Side Salad
- A simple garden salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty beef stroganoff.
Adding Pickled Vegetables
- Small servings of pickled cucumbers or carrots offer a tangy punch that cuts through the creamy sauce beautifully.
How to Perfect 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
To create an exceptional 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff, consider these helpful tips for perfection.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried versions.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook; feel free to adjust pepper and salt according to your preference.
- Select Quality Beef: Choose ground beef with good marbling for more flavor and tenderness.
- Add Extra Creaminess: For an even richer sauce, consider using cream in place of some milk.
- Cook Noodles Al Dente: This ensures they hold up well after being mixed with the sauce without becoming mushy.
- Garnish Thoughtfully: Chopped parsley or chives on top not only adds color but also a fresh taste.
Best Side Dishes for 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
Pairing side dishes with your 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement the rich flavors of the dish.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the stroganoff sauce, creating a comforting meal.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf adds texture and absorbs flavors from the stroganoff beautifully.
- Roasted Asparagus: Lightly roasted asparagus provides a crisp counterpoint that balances the richness of the dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, making it a refreshing side option.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements savory flavors while adding a fun element to your dinner table.
- Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes topped with sour cream offer an easy yet delicious pairing option.
- Steamed Rice: Simple steamed rice allows the stroganoff’s flavors to shine through without overpowering them.
- Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad brings freshness and brightness, enhancing each bite of stroganoff.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the egg noodles longer than necessary can lead to mushy pasta. Follow the package instructions closely for perfect texture.
- Not draining the beef: Leaving excess fat in the skillet can make your stroganoff greasy. Always drain the beef after browning for a balanced flavor.
- Skipping the roux: A proper roux is essential for a creamy sauce. Whisk the flour and butter thoroughly before adding liquids to ensure smoothness.
- Adding sour cream too early: Mixing in sour cream at high heat can cause it to curdle. Lower the heat before adding it for a creamy consistency.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each broth varies in saltiness. Taste your sauce before serving and adjust seasonings as needed for optimal flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place stroganoff in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer servings to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff:
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Incorporate mushrooms, spinach, or peas into your stroganoff for added nutrition and flavor.
What side dishes pair well with this stroganoff?
Serve with steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a fresh salad to complement your meal.
How do I store leftovers effectively?
Ensure leftovers are cooled before placing them in airtight containers. They can be refrigerated or frozen per our storage guidelines.
How spicy is this recipe?
This recipe is not spicy at all but feel free to add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer some heat!
Final Thoughts
This 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff is not only quick and budget-friendly but also adaptable. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or alternative proteins. It’s sure to become a family favorite that you can whip up on busy weeknights!
30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff
Satisfy your cravings with this 30-Minute Ground Beef Stroganoff, a creamy and savory dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This quick and budget-friendly recipe features tender ground beef enveloped in a rich sauce, served over egg noodles for a comforting meal that the entire family will love. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or lunch, this stroganoff is not just easy to make but also versatile enough to be paired with your favorite vegetables or garlic toast. In just half an hour, you can whip up a delicious feast that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions in a pot of boiling water. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef for about 6-8 minutes until fully cooked; drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and whisk in flour for about 2 minutes to create a roux.
- Gradually add beef broth while whisking to avoid lumps; continue until the sauce thickens (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in milk and cook until thickened again (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and salt; mix well.
- Reduce heat to low and incorporate cooked noodles and browned beef until everything is heated through.
- Finish by stirring in sour cream for added richness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider mixing in vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. Substitute ground turkey or chicken if preferred for a lighter option. Adjust seasonings to taste as you cook.