I still remember the first time I attempted to make Beef Stroganoff Recipe. I was eager to impress my family with what I thought would be a sophisticated, restaurant-worthy dish. Instead, it turned into a chaotic mess. I accidentally splattered sauce everywhere—walls, ceiling, you name it! That night ended with us ordering pizza. But from that kitchen disaster came a valuable lesson: simpler is often better. And this simplified beef stroganoff recipe? It’s proof that you can enjoy rich, creamy, comforting flavors without all the fuss.
This recipe is a game-changer. It’s quick, uses everyday ingredients, and strikes the perfect balance between creamy sauce and tender noodles. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is a winner. Plus, you can make it in just 30 minutes. No more sauce on the ceiling, I promise!
Why You’ll Love This Beef Stroganoff Recipe
If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, family-friendly dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this beef stroganoff has you covered. Let me tell you why it’s so special:
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep, straightforward steps, and no fancy equipment required.
- Rich and Creamy: The sour cream adds a delightful tanginess to the sauce, while the butter and milk make it luxuriously smooth.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients like ground beef, egg noodles, and pantry staples.
- Kid-Approved: The mild flavors and creamy texture make this a hit with picky eaters.
- Customizable: You can jazz it up with mushrooms, swap out the noodles, or add extra spices for a personal twist.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying. It’s also great for casual family gatherings where everyone can help themselves to seconds.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 hearty portions
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 662
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 19g
- Cholesterol: 164mg
- Sodium: 1160mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Ingredients You’ll Need for this Beef Stroganoff Recipe
To make this easy Beef Stroganoff Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
- 6 oz (170g) egg noodles: These absorb the sauce beautifully and have the perfect texture.
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef: A flavorful, budget-friendly protein.
- 1/4 cup (56g) butter: Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to the ideal consistency.
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth: Enhances the savory flavors of the dish.
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) milk: Creates a creamy, velvety sauce.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: A touch of aromatic depth.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: For subtle, savory notes.
- 3/4 tsp salt: Adjust to taste.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds a hint of warmth.
- 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream: The key to that classic tangy stroganoff flavor.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of color and freshness for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions of Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a foolproof beef stroganoff:
1. Cook the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the egg noodles and cook for 2 minutes less than the package instructions suggest to keep them al dente.
- Drain the noodles, but do not rinse them. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned.
- If there’s excess grease, drain it carefully and set the cooked beef aside.
3. Prepare the Roux
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour, whisking continuously to create a smooth paste.
- Cook the roux for about 2 minutes. This step eliminates the raw flour taste and lays the foundation for the creamy sauce.
4. Create the Sauce
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
- Keep stirring until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Slowly add the milk, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Allow the sauce to simmer over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the Sauce
- Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Combine the Ingredients
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce.
- Add the cooked egg noodles and stir gently to coat them evenly in the creamy sauce.
7. Finish the Dish
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream. This step transforms the sauce into a luscious, tangy masterpiece.
8. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the stroganoff to serving plates.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
This beef stroganoff is a meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides:
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, broccoli, or asparagus for added nutrition.
- Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Offer warm dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Variations and Tips
This dish is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
- Add Mushrooms: Sauté 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms with the ground beef for an earthy flavor.
- Try a Different Pasta: Substitute the egg noodles with fettuccine, penne, or even spiralized zucchini for a low-carb option.
- Make It Spicy: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes or cayenne for a little kick.
- Use Greek Yogurt: Swap the sour cream for Greek yogurt to boost the protein content.
- Go Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free pasta.
Storage and Freezing
Got leftovers? Here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened.
- Freezer: Place cooked stroganoff in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and sauce ahead, then reheat and toss with freshly cooked noodles.
What if I don’t have sour cream?
Greek yogurt works as a fantastic substitute.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Simmer it for a few extra minutes, or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and stir it into the sauce.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope this simplified beef stroganoff recipe earns a permanent spot in your dinner rotation, just like it has in mine. There’s something so satisfying about creating a meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare—one that brings everyone together around the table. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty in a hurry, yet it’s special enough to serve for a cozy family dinner on the weekend. The creamy sauce, tender noodles, and savory beef come together in a way that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
As you enjoy making this recipe, don’t forget that cooking is all about experimenting and making it your own. Maybe you’ll add mushrooms for an earthy twist, or perhaps you’ll use a different pasta to suit your family’s preferences. Either way, I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Snap a photo, tag me on social media, or leave a comment below to share your experience. Seeing your creations and hearing your feedback makes this journey so rewarding.
Let’s make dinnertime more than just a routine—let’s make it an event where memories are made, laughter is shared, and everyone leaves the table feeling happy and satisfied. Together, we can keep our kitchens filled with warmth, love, and of course, incredibly delicious meals. So go ahead, whip up this beef stroganoff, and let the magic happen. You’ve got this!
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The Simplest Beef Stroganoff You’ll Ever Make: A Foolproof Recipe for Any Night
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This easy beef stroganoff recipe delivers a creamy, savory dish perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring tender egg noodles, ground beef, and a rich sour cream sauce, it’s a comforting, family-friendly meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 6 oz (170g) egg noodles
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup (56g) butter
- 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) milk
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 3/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook egg noodles until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart. Drain excess grease and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same skillet and whisk in flour to make a roux. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add beef broth and milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Season sauce with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in the cooked beef and noodles until coated. Remove from heat and mix in sour cream.
- Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Add mushrooms for extra flavor or replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American