This recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful ground beef stroganoff using the convenience of cream of mushroom soup. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This classic dish gets a quick and easy makeover, making it accessible to even novice cooks. Let's dive into the delicious details!
What Makes This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe So Easy?
The secret ingredient? Cream of mushroom soup! This pantry staple simplifies the sauce-making process considerably. No need for complicated béchamel or roux; the soup provides a creamy base that's rich and flavorful. We'll enhance it with simple additions to elevate the taste and create a truly satisfying dish.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your preference)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 10.75 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, but adds extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup dry sherry or white wine (optional, adds depth of flavor)
- 8 oz egg noodles
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Cook the Beef: Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Create the Sauce: Pour in the cream of mushroom soup and beef broth (or water). Stir well to combine. If using, add the sherry or white wine now. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Stir in Sour Cream (Optional): If using sour cream, stir it in during the last few minutes of simmering. Be careful not to boil, as this can curdle the sour cream.
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Cook the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to package directions.
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Combine & Serve: Drain the noodles and add them to the skillet with the beef stroganoff sauce. Toss gently to coat.
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Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can experiment with other types of pasta, such as fettuccine, tagliatelle, or even wide rice noodles. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What if I don't have beef broth?
Water works perfectly well as a substitute for beef broth. The cream of mushroom soup already provides a lot of flavor, so the broth primarily adds liquid to the sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This stroganoff tastes even better the next day. Prepare it as directed and store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, peas, or even bell peppers would be delicious additions. Add them along with the onions and garlic during step 2.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use lean ground beef and reduce the amount of cream of mushroom soup slightly. You can also add more vegetables to increase the nutritional value.
Tips for the Perfect Ground Beef Stroganoff:
- Don't overcook the beef: Overcooked ground beef can become dry and tough. Cook it just until browned.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is key! Taste the sauce before serving and add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings as needed.
- Garnish generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
This easy ground beef stroganoff recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Enjoy!
