This budget-friendly and comforting Ground Beef Stroganoff is ready in just 30 minutes. With tender egg noodles coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce, it’s a family favorite perfect for busy weeknights. This dish delivers rich, savory flavors without the need for expensive cuts of meat, making it a practical yet indulgent meal.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for weeknights.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses ground beef instead of pricier cuts.
• Rich and Creamy – A flavorful, satisfying dish with a velvety sauce.
• Versatile – Easily customizable with mushrooms, different pasta, or a lighter version with Greek yogurt.

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Preparation & Tools You’ll Need

Essential Equipment

• Large pot – For cooking the egg noodles.
• Large skillet – To brown the beef and make the creamy sauce.
• Whisk – Helps create a smooth, lump-free sauce.
• Colander – For draining the noodles.

Preparation Tips

• Pre-measure ingredients to speed up cooking.
• Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) to reduce grease.
• Warm the milk slightly before adding to prevent sauce curdling.
• Cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.

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Ingredients (4 Servings)

• 6 ounces egg noodles
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup sour cream

Optional Additions

• Mushrooms – Add up to 1/2 cup fresh white button or cremini mushrooms, sliced.
• Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth to the sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese – Sprinkle on top for extra richness.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook the egg noodles according to package directions.
• Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
• Cook until fully browned, about 6-8 minutes.
• Drain excess fat and transfer the beef to a plate.

3. Make the Sauce

• In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
• Whisk in flour and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a roux.
• Gradually add beef broth, whisking to prevent lumps.
• Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
• Slowly whisk in milk, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy (5-7 minutes).
• Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.

4. Combine and Serve

• Reduce heat to low.
• Stir in the cooked noodles and browned beef, coating everything evenly in the sauce.
• Gently fold in sour cream until fully incorporated.
• Serve hot with garlic toast or roasted vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a rich, creamy dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some great options to complete your meal:

Best Side Dishes

1. Steamed Broccoli – A fresh, green contrast to the creamy sauce.
2. Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the stroganoff sauce.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Adds a crispy, caramelized texture.
4. Side Salad with Vinaigrette – A light and refreshing complement.
5. Mashed Potatoes – A classic comfort food pairing.
6. Sautéed Mushrooms – Enhances the dish’s umami flavor.
7. Corn on the Cob – A sweet, buttery contrast to the savory sauce.
8. Green Beans Almondine – Adds a nutty crunch and freshness.

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Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even simple recipes can go wrong with small missteps. Here are the most common mistakes and how to fix them:

1. Sauce is too thick

Fix: Add a splash of beef broth or milk to thin it out. Stir well to blend smoothly.

2. Sauce is too runny

Fix: Let it simmer for a few extra minutes, allowing the flour to thicken it properly. If needed, whisk in a small amount of flour mixed with water.

3. Curled or separated sauce

Fix: Keep the heat low when adding sour cream to prevent curdling. Stir gently and do not overheat.

4. Overcooked noodles

Fix: Cook the noodles al dente so they hold their shape when mixed with the sauce.

5. Too greasy

Fix: Use lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) and drain excess fat before adding the beef to the sauce.

6. Lacking flavor

Fix: Taste before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A little extra salt, black pepper, or even a pinch of paprika can enhance the flavors.

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Recipe Tips, Storage, and Reheating Instructions

Best Tips for Success

• Use lean ground beef to prevent excessive grease. If using higher-fat beef, drain the excess fat before proceeding.
• Warm the milk before adding it to the sauce to prevent curdling.
• Cook noodles al dente to keep them from getting too soft when mixed with the sauce.
• Whisk constantly when making the sauce to avoid lumps.
• Add sour cream at the end and stir gently to prevent separation.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, store the noodles and sauce separately.

Best Ways to Reheat

• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until warmed through. Add a little milk if needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative, though it has a milder flavor.

2. How do I make this gluten-free?

Use gluten-free noodles and replace the all-purpose flour with cornstarch (use half the amount).

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the sauce and beef ahead of time, but store separately from the noodles to prevent them from soaking up too much sauce.

4. Can I make this without sour cream?

Yes, Greek yogurt or heavy cream can be used instead. Greek yogurt adds a slight tang, while heavy cream makes it richer.

5. What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency.

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Conclusion

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is a creamy, satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes. With its rich sauce and tender noodles, it is an easy and budget-friendly option for busy nights. Whether served with garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad, this dish is sure to be a hit.

Enjoy a comforting homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Let me know if you have any questions or need any modifications.