The Best Hamburger Stroganoff Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the creamy, hearty appeal of Hamburger Stroganoff. This budget-friendly twist on the classic stroganoff features tender ground beef, egg noodles, and a rich, creamy sauce that comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a dish the whole family will devour.

I first fell in love with Hamburger Stroganoff as a child, watching my grandmother whip it up effortlessly in her cozy kitchen. Over the years, I’ve tweaked her recipe to create what I now call “the best.” Let me share it with you!

Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Stroganoff Recipe

This dish has earned its place as a family favorite for good reason. Here’s why you’ll love it too:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just half an hour, this recipe is ideal for weeknights when time is tight.
• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and pantry staples come together to make a satisfying meal that won’t break the bank.
• Rich and Creamy: The sour cream sauce is perfectly balanced, combining savory, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite.
• Picky-Eater Approved: The familiar ingredients and comforting flavors make this a hit with kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Notes

This simple recipe uses everyday ingredients to create a flavorful dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef (80/20) works well, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Onion: Adds depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness. Dice it finely for even cooking.
• Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic bring warmth and aroma to the dish.
• Beef Broth: The savory base of the sauce, creating a rich, hearty flavor.
• Mushrooms: Optional but recommended. Fresh sliced mushrooms add an earthy note and texture.
• Flour: Helps thicken the sauce.
• Sour Cream: The key to the dish’s tangy, creamy sauce. Full-fat sour cream yields the best results, but light sour cream works too.
• Egg Noodles: Classic stroganoff calls for egg noodles, but any pasta or even rice works in a pinch.
• Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and a hint of color to the dish.
• Parsley: For garnish, providing a pop of color and freshness.

How to Make Hamburger Stroganoff

This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for any level of cook. Here’s how to make it:

1. Cook the Noodles
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
   In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
   In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of oil or butter. Sauté the onion until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. If using mushrooms, sauté them here until tender.
4. Make the Sauce
   Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well to coat. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
5. Combine the Ingredients
   Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Lower the heat and gently fold in the sour cream, stirring until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.
6. Serve
   Toss the cooked egg noodles with the beef and sauce or serve the stroganoff over the noodles. Garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

Storage Options

Leftovers of this delicious dish? Lucky you! Here’s how to store and reheat:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Hamburger Stroganoff freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating Instructions

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between bursts.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is flexible and easy to adapt. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

1. Add Vegetables: Toss in peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
2. Swap Proteins: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different take.
3. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute gluten-free noodles and use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce instead of flour.
4. Creamier Sauce: Mix in a dollop of cream cheese or heavy cream for an even richer sauce.
5. Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle Parmesan or Gruyère cheese over the top for extra decadence.

This Hamburger Stroganoff recipe brings the best of comfort food to your table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this creamy, savory dish is sure to satisfy. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a green salad, and enjoy every delicious bite. Happy cooking!

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