The Best Hamburger Stroganoff Recipe

There's something about the rich, creamy flavor of Hamburger Stroganoff that takes me right back to childhood. The tender ground beef, perfectly cooked egg noodles, and luscious mushroom sauce come together in a dish that's pure comfort in a bowl.

I first made this recipe on a rainy evening when I was craving something warm, nostalgic, and satisfying. Little did I know it would become a regular in our weekly rotation, loved by kids and adults alike. If you're looking for a quick, budget-friendly meal that feels indulgent, this one is sure to win you over.

Let’s dive into why this Hamburger Stroganoff is a weeknight winner you'll want to make again and again.

Why You'll Love This Hamburger Stroganoff

Get ready to fall head over heels for this mouthwatering Hamburger Stroganoff. It's simple, satisfying, and perfect for those nights when you want big flavor with minimal fuss.

First of all, it's incredibly quick and easy. From prep to plate in just 30 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Even if you’re juggling homework, errands, or simply a hectic day, this dish is a stress-free option.

Another huge plus? Budget-friendliness. With basic ingredients like ground beef, egg noodles, and sour cream, you can feed a hungry family without breaking the bank. Plus, it's perfect for meal-prepping or stretching your leftovers for a couple of days.

And let's not forget about its versatility. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your family's preferences or use whatever you have on hand. No mushrooms? No problem – just leave them out. Want to make it lighter? Swap in Greek yogurt for sour cream.

Finally, the flavor profile is an absolute showstopper. The savory, umami-rich beef pairs beautifully with the creamy, tangy sauce, all tied together with the earthy mushrooms and tender noodles. One bite, and you'll understand why this recipe stands the test of time.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this Hamburger Stroganoff lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Let's break down what you'll need and why each item plays a crucial role.

• Ground beef: The heart of the dish. I like to use 80/20 ground beef for a rich flavor and just the right amount of fat. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or even plant-based crumbles.
• Mushrooms: These add an earthy depth to the sauce. Cremini or white button mushrooms work beautifully, but feel free to use a mix of wild mushrooms if you're feeling fancy. Don't love mushrooms? You can leave them out, and the dish will still be delicious.
• Egg noodles: Classic wide egg noodles soak up the sauce perfectly, making each bite deliciously creamy. If you're gluten-free, you can substitute with rice noodles or your favorite GF pasta.
• Sour cream: This is what makes the sauce so tangy and luscious. Full-fat sour cream is ideal, but if you're watching calories, you can use light sour cream or Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
• Onion and garlic: These aromatics lay the foundation for a flavorful sauce. Make sure to finely dice the onion and mince the garlic to ensure they blend well into the sauce.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a pot for boiling the noodles. Having these ready will make the cooking process a breeze!

How To Make This Hamburger Stroganoff

Creating this delicious Hamburger Stroganoff is easier than you think. Here’s a simple guide to getting it just right.

Start by cooking your egg noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the noodles and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.

While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef and cook until it's nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, but leave a little in the pan for flavor.

Next, add your diced onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to let it burn.

Now it's time to add the sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until they've released their moisture and are golden brown. This step deepens the flavor of the sauce and adds a beautiful, savory base.

Sprinkle in flour and stir until the beef and mushrooms are well coated. This will help thicken the sauce. Slowly pour in beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, until thickened.

Finally, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.

Serve your Hamburger Stroganoff hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. The entire process should take no more than 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal!

Storage Options

Storing leftover Hamburger Stroganoff is simple and ensures you can enjoy it the next day with minimal effort.

For short-term storage, transfer the cooled Stroganoff into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious!

If you’re planning to store it longer, freezing is a great option. Spoon the Stroganoff into freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of room for expansion. It can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, place the Stroganoff in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to keep the sauce creamy. Stir until heated through and serve immediately.

Variations and Substitutions

This Hamburger Stroganoff recipe is as adaptable as it is tasty. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Make it lighter: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt to reduce the calorie content without sacrificing flavor.
• Go vegetarian: Use plant-based ground meat alternatives and vegetable broth to make this a vegetarian-friendly meal. You can even add extra mushrooms or hearty vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
• Add a flavor twist: For a richer sauce, stir in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of red wine. These add depth and complexity to the dish.
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce. It’ll give your Stroganoff a spicy kick that’s irresistible.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce and serve over gluten-free pasta or rice. It’s just as satisfying and delicious.

The possibilities are endless, so don't be afraid to experiment and make this classic recipe uniquely yours!

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