Hamburger Stroganoff Recipe

For years, weeknight dinners in our household were a constant balancing act between speed, deliciousness, and something the kids wouldn’t turn their noses up at. Let’s be honest, sometimes it felt like an impossible mission! Then, I stumbled upon Hamburger Stroganoff, and it was like a culinary lightbulb went off. This isn’t your grandma’s beef stroganoff (though grandma’s is probably amazing too!). This is a streamlined, family-friendly version that utilizes ground beef – a staple in most kitchens – and transforms it into a creamy, comforting, and surprisingly sophisticated dish. From the first time I made it, the aroma filling the kitchen was intoxicating. The kids, usually picky eaters, were practically inhaling it, and my husband, a self-proclaimed meat-and-potatoes guy, declared it a new favorite. The creamy sauce, the tender ground beef, and the earthy mushrooms all come together in perfect harmony, served over a bed of fluffy egg noodles. It’s become a regular in our rotation, and I’m excited to share this recipe and all my tips for making the best Hamburger Stroganoff with you. Get ready to experience a weeknight dinner that’s both incredibly easy and utterly satisfying!

Ingredients for Delicious Hamburger Stroganoff

To create this creamy and flavorful Hamburger Stroganoff, you’ll need the following ingredients. Don’t worry if you need to make slight adjustments based on what you have on hand; this recipe is quite forgiving!

• For the Stroganoff Base:
  • 1 pound lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 recommended for flavor)
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced (or white button mushrooms)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds a nice depth)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
  • 2 cups beef broth (low sodium is preferred)
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat for the richest flavor, light sour cream works too)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
• For Serving:
  • 1 pound egg noodles (or pasta of your choice, like wide noodles or rice)
  • Water for boiling pasta
  • Salt for pasta water

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions:

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease. You can also use ground turkey or ground chicken for a lighter option. For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of ground beef and ground sirloin.
• Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms (baby bellas) offer a deeper, earthier flavor than white button mushrooms, but both work well. You can also use other types of mushrooms like shiitake or oyster mushrooms, or a combination. If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can omit them, or substitute with other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, though it will change the flavor profile.
• Sour Cream: Full-fat sour cream will give you the creamiest and richest sauce. Light sour cream can be used to reduce fat content, but it might be slightly less rich. For a tangier flavor, you could experiment with crème fraîche or Greek yogurt (though Greek yogurt may need to be tempered carefully to prevent curdling).
• Beef Broth: Low-sodium beef broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish. If using regular beef broth, taste and adjust salt accordingly. You can also use beef bouillon cubes or paste dissolved in water.
• Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and depth of flavor. Yellow mustard can be used in a pinch, but Dijon is preferred.
• Worcestershire Sauce: This adds umami and complexity to the sauce. If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can use a dash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a similar effect.
• Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are the classic pairing for Stroganoff, but wide noodles, rice, mashed potatoes, or even biscuits would also be delicious.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Hamburger Stroganoff

Follow these simple instructions to create a delicious and satisfying Hamburger Stroganoff that’s perfect for any weeknight meal.

1. Cook the Egg Noodles: Begin by cooking your egg noodles according to package directions. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook until al dente. Drain the noodles and set aside. You can toss them with a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking if desired.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: While the noodles are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook and stir until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add Mushrooms and Spices: Stir in the sliced mushrooms, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms have softened and released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Create the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the beef and mushroom mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This step is crucial to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux that will thicken the sauce.
6. Add Broth and Simmer: Gradually pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits (this adds flavor!). Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Stir in Sour Cream, Mustard, and Worcestershire Sauce: Remove the skillet from the heat. Gently stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined. Important: Do not boil the Stroganoff after adding the sour cream, as it can cause the sauce to curdle. The residual heat from the sauce will be enough to warm the sour cream through.
8. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the Stroganoff and adjust seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a touch more Dijon mustard depending on your preference.
9. Serve and Garnish: Serve the Hamburger Stroganoff immediately over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. A dollop of extra sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika can also be added as garnish.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the beef: Brown the beef in batches if necessary to ensure it browns properly and doesn’t steam.
• Cook the roux properly: Cooking the flour for 1-2 minutes is essential to eliminate the raw flour taste and allow it to thicken the sauce effectively.
• Don’t boil after adding sour cream: Boiling the sauce after adding sour cream can lead to curdling, resulting in a grainy texture. Gentle warming is all that’s needed.
• Taste and adjust seasoning: Seasoning is key to a flavorful dish. Taste at various stages and adjust salt, pepper, and other seasonings to your liking.

Nutrition Facts for Hamburger Stroganoff

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and brands. This is an approximate guide only.)

Servings: Approximately 6 servings

Per Serving (Estimated):

• Calories: 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 25-30 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 12-15 grams
• Cholesterol: 120-150 mg
• Sodium: 600-800 mg (can vary greatly depending on broth and salt added)
• Carbohydrates: 35-45 grams
  • Fiber: 2-3 grams
  • Sugar: 5-7 grams

Key Nutritional Highlights (per serving – approximate):

• Good Source of Protein: Hamburger Stroganoff is a protein-rich meal, thanks to the ground beef and sour cream. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
• Moderate in Fat: While it contains fat from the ground beef and sour cream, the use of lean ground beef and portion control can help manage the fat content.
• Source of Vitamins and Minerals: The dish provides vitamins and minerals from the beef, mushrooms, onions, garlic, and broth. Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins and selenium.
• Carbohydrate Content: The egg noodles contribute to the carbohydrate content, providing energy. Choosing whole wheat noodles can increase fiber content.

Tips for Making it Healthier:

• Use Extra Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 90% or 93% lean ground beef to reduce fat content.
• Light Sour Cream: Using light sour cream will reduce the fat and calorie count, although it may slightly alter the richness of the sauce.
• Whole Wheat Noodles: Substitute egg noodles with whole wheat noodles for increased fiber.
• Increase Vegetables: Add more mushrooms or other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to boost nutrient content and fiber.
• Control Portion Sizes: Be mindful of serving sizes to manage calorie intake.

Preparation Time for Hamburger Stroganoff

• Prep Time: 15-20 minutes (chopping vegetables, measuring ingredients)
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (cooking beef, sauce, simmering)
• Total Time: 45-55 minutes

This Hamburger Stroganoff recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal as it comes together in under an hour. The hands-on time is minimal, allowing you to multitask or relax while the dish simmers and develops its flavors.

How to Serve Hamburger Stroganoff

Hamburger Stroganoff is incredibly versatile and can be served with a variety of accompaniments to create a complete and satisfying meal. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Serving:
  • Egg Noodles: The most traditional and popular choice. Fluffy, buttery egg noodles perfectly complement the creamy sauce and savory beef.
  • Wide Noodles: Similar to egg noodles, wide noodles offer a comforting and satisfying base for the Stroganoff.
• Grain Options:
  • Rice: White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice are excellent alternatives to noodles. They absorb the sauce beautifully and provide a different texture.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are another comforting option that pairs wonderfully with the rich Stroganoff sauce.
  • Quinoa: For a healthier, protein-rich grain option, serve over quinoa.
• Vegetable Sides:
  • Steamed Green Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a fresh and healthy contrast to the richness of the Stroganoff.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or root vegetables add a touch of sweetness and earthy flavor.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a light and refreshing counterpoint to the creamy dish.
• Bread and Garnishes:
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
  • Dinner Rolls: Soft dinner rolls are another great option for bread service.
  • Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness as a garnish.
  • Sour Cream Dollop: A dollop of extra sour cream on top enhances the creaminess and tang.
  • Paprika Sprinkle: A sprinkle of paprika adds a touch of visual appeal and smoky flavor.
  • Chives: Chopped fresh chives offer a mild oniony flavor and a vibrant green garnish.

Serving Suggestions for Different Occasions:

• Weeknight Family Dinner: Serve over egg noodles with a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for a quick and easy, yet satisfying meal.
• Comfort Food Meal: Pair with mashed potatoes and roasted carrots for an extra comforting and hearty dinner.
• Slightly More Elegant Dinner: Serve over wild rice with roasted asparagus and a side salad for a slightly more refined presentation.
• Potluck or Casserole Style: Hamburger Stroganoff can be easily doubled or tripled for potlucks. You can also bake it casserole-style by combining the Stroganoff with cooked noodles in a baking dish, topping with breadcrumbs or cheese (optional), and baking until bubbly and heated through.

Additional Tips for the Best Hamburger Stroganoff

Here are 5 additional tips to elevate your Hamburger Stroganoff from good to absolutely amazing:

1. Bloom Your Spices: Before adding the flour, briefly sauté the dried thyme and paprika in the olive oil along with the onions and garlic. This process, called “blooming,” helps to release their essential oils and intensifies their flavor, adding a richer depth to the dish.
2. Use Quality Beef Broth: The flavor of your beef broth significantly impacts the final taste of the Stroganoff. Opt for a good quality beef broth or even homemade broth if you have it. Low-sodium broth is recommended so you can control the salt level yourself.
3. Don’t Skimp on the Sautéing: Take your time sautéing the onions, garlic, and mushrooms. Allowing them to properly soften and caramelize will build layers of flavor that are crucial to a delicious Stroganoff. Don’t rush this step!
4. Deglaze the Pan Properly: When you pour in the beef broth, make sure to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These caramelized bits, called “fond,” are packed with flavor and will enhance the richness of the sauce.
5. Temper the Sour Cream for a Smooth Sauce: To prevent the sour cream from curdling, especially if your Stroganoff is still very hot, you can temper it before adding it to the skillet. To temper, take a few tablespoons of the hot Stroganoff sauce and whisk it into the sour cream in a separate bowl. This gradually warms the sour cream and reduces the risk of curdling when you add it to the main dish. Then, gently stir the tempered sour cream mixture into the Stroganoff off the heat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Hamburger Stroganoff

Here are 5 frequently asked questions to help you master making Hamburger Stroganoff:

Q1: Can I make Hamburger Stroganoff ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can definitely make Hamburger Stroganoff ahead of time! In fact, the flavors often meld and deepen even more when refrigerated and reheated. Prepare the Stroganoff according to the recipe, but don’t add the sour cream until you are ready to reheat and serve. Cool the Stroganoff completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm it over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Once heated through, remove from heat and stir in the sour cream. Cook egg noodles fresh just before serving for the best texture.

Q2: Can I freeze Hamburger Stroganoff?

A: Freezing Hamburger Stroganoff is possible, but the texture of the sour cream might change slightly upon thawing and reheating, potentially becoming a little grainy. To minimize this, it’s best to freeze the Stroganoff before adding the sour cream. Prepare the recipe up to step 6 (before adding sour cream). Cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop until heated through, then remove from heat and stir in the sour cream. Cook egg noodles fresh before serving.

Q3: I don’t have sour cream, what can I substitute?

A: While sour cream is traditional, you can use a few substitutes. Crème fraîche is a great option for a richer and slightly tangier flavor. Greek yogurt (full-fat) can also be used, but temper it carefully to prevent curdling. You can also use plain yogurt (full-fat), but it will be tangier and less rich than sour cream. In a pinch, you could even use cream cheese, softened and whisked in, for a creamier but less tangy result.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables to Hamburger Stroganoff?

A: Absolutely! Hamburger Stroganoff is very adaptable. Bell peppers (sliced or diced), zucchini (diced), peas (frozen, added at the end), spinach (added at the end to wilt), or even carrots (diced and sautéed with the onions) would all be delicious additions. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.

Q5: My Stroganoff sauce is too thin, how can I thicken it?

A: If your Stroganoff sauce is too thin, there are a few ways to thicken it. First, ensure you cooked the roux (flour and fat mixture) properly for 1-2 minutes. If it’s still thin, you can make a slurry of 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir this slurry into the simmering sauce and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can simmer the sauce uncovered for a bit longer, allowing it to reduce and thicken naturally. Be sure not to over-thicken it, as it will thicken further as it cools.

Hamburger Stroganoff is a recipe that truly delivers on flavor and ease. It’s a weeknight dinner winner that’s sure to become a family favorite in your home, just as it has in mine. Enjoy the creamy, comforting goodness!

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