The Best Hamburger Stroganoff Recipe

There's something magical about the rich aroma of Hamburger Stroganoff simmering away in your kitchen. Creamy, savory, and loaded with tender beef, this hearty dish is a cozy weeknight dinner your whole family will adore.

this Recipe

I discovered this recipe during my college days when I needed an affordable yet satisfying meal. Over time, it evolved into a family favorite, loved for its simplicity and comforting flavors. Ready to transform humble ground beef into a luxurious, crowd-pleasing meal? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love This Hamburger Stroganoff

Get ready to fall in love with this quick and easy comfort food classic. Hamburger Stroganoff is the ultimate blend of convenience and flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meal prep.

First, it’s ridiculously simple to make. With just one skillet and 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it simmered all day. No need to be a kitchen expert – this recipe is virtually foolproof!

Second, it’s budget-friendly. Made with ground beef, pantry staples, and a few fresh ingredients, this recipe won’t break the bank while still delivering big on taste.

Versatility is another reason to love this dish. Whether you serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, this Stroganoff is adaptable to your family’s preferences.

Finally, the creamy, savory sauce is packed with comfort. The tang of sour cream paired with the umami of mushrooms and beef makes every bite irresistible. Ready to see how this all comes together? Let’s talk ingredients.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Hamburger Stroganoff lies in its simple ingredients, each contributing to its rich and satisfying flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef is the star of the dish. Opt for lean ground beef (85% lean) to minimize grease while still enjoying a rich, meaty flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey works wonderfully as well.

Mushrooms add an earthy depth to the sauce. Baby bella mushrooms are my favorite, but white button mushrooms are a great, affordable alternative.

Onions and garlic form the aromatic base of the sauce. Dice the onion finely for a smooth consistency, and don’t skimp on the garlic – it elevates the flavor beautifully.

Beef broth is the backbone of the sauce. Use low-sodium beef broth so you can control the seasoning better.

Sour cream is what gives this dish its signature creamy tang. Full-fat sour cream is best for a rich texture, but light sour cream works if you’re looking to cut calories.

Egg noodles are the classic pairing for Stroganoff. Their wide, tender shape holds the sauce perfectly, but feel free to swap them out for rice or mashed potatoes if you’d like.

Lastly, make sure you have a large skillet or sauté pan for cooking. A sturdy pan ensures even cooking and allows the sauce to develop its full flavor.

How To Make This Hamburger Stroganoff

Making Hamburger Stroganoff is straightforward, but the end result is anything but ordinary. Let’s break it down:

Start by browning your ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until it’s fully browned and crumbly, then drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.

In the same skillet, add a drizzle of oil and toss in your diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are soft and the mushrooms are golden. Add in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Next, sprinkle in a couple of tablespoons of flour over the vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly – this will thicken the sauce beautifully. Slowly pour in your beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the cooked beef, reduce the heat to low, and fold in the sour cream. Heat through, but don’t let it boil, as sour cream can curdle at high temperatures.

Finally, season the Stroganoff with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika for a hint of smokiness. Serve over cooked egg noodles, garnish with fresh parsley, and dig in!

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, Hamburger Stroganoff stores beautifully. Let the dish cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container.

• Refrigerator: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Freezer: Yes, this dish freezes well! Freeze Stroganoff without the noodles in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To maintain the sauce’s creaminess, add a little extra sour cream or broth when reheating. Avoid boiling, as it can alter the texture.

Variations and Substitutions

The flexibility of Hamburger Stroganoff makes it a great recipe to experiment with. Here are some variations to try:

• Swap the beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a leaner twist.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the meat and double the mushrooms. Add lentils or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Use different noodles: Try fettuccine, penne, or even zoodles for a low-carb option.
• Lighter version: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative.

Feel free to get creative with your toppings as well – crispy fried onions, a sprinkle of cheese, or a dollop of horseradish cream can take this dish to new heights.

Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick weeknight meal or serving it to guests, Hamburger Stroganoff is guaranteed to impress. It’s comforting, customizable, and so easy to make that it might just become your new go-to recipe. Try it tonight and see for yourself!

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