Discover the secret to budget-friendly gourmet: how to elevate hamburger into a savory beef stroganoff

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of beef stroganoff, a classic dish that combines tender beef, rich mushroom sauce, and creamy sour cream. While traditionally made with steak, this recipe offers a budget-friendly alternative using ground beef, creating a hearty and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
3. Whisk in the Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the Beef Broth: Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Season to Taste: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Incorporate the Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream. Do not boil, as this will cause the sour cream to curdle.
7. Serve Immediately: Serve the beef stroganoff over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Variations

• Use Different Mushrooms: Experiment with various mushroom varieties such as shiitake, oyster, or cremini for a richer flavor.
• Add Other Vegetables: Enhance the dish with diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.
• Use a Slow Cooker: For a hands-off approach, transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Add a Touch of Heat: If desired, stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a spicy kick.

Tips for Success

• Use High-Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef with a fat content of 80/20 for the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink, but avoid overcooking to prevent it from becoming tough.
• Sauté the Vegetables Thoroughly: Allow the onions and mushrooms to cook until softened for a more flavorful base.
• Whisk the Flour Slowly: Gradually add the flour to the vegetables while whisking constantly to prevent lumps.
• Simmer the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer for at least 15 minutes to develop a rich and flavorful broth.
• Don’t Boil the Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream off the heat to prevent curdling.

Pairing Suggestions

• Egg Noodles: Classic egg noodles provide a perfect base for the beef stroganoff, soaking up the rich sauce.
• Rice: Fluffy white rice or brown rice offer a neutral canvas for the savory flavors of the dish.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting and indulgent bed for the beef stroganoff.
• Green Salad: A crisp green salad provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty main course.
• Bread Rolls: Warm bread rolls allow you to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley, chives, or dill over the beef stroganoff for an aromatic touch.
• Add a Dollop of Sour Cream: Place a dollop of sour cream on top of each serving for an extra creamy and tangy flavor.
• Serve with Pickles: Offer dill pickles or bread and butter pickles as a tangy accompaniment.
• Pair with Red Wine: A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the rich flavors of the beef stroganoff.

Wrapping Up

Making beef stroganoff with hamburger is an easy and budget-friendly way to enjoy this classic dish. By following these simple instructions and experimenting with variations, you can create a flavorful and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I use frozen ground beef?
A: Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Thaw it completely before browning.

Q: What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?
A: You can substitute soy sauce or steak sauce for Worcestershire sauce.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the beef stroganoff up to 2 days in advance. Reheat it over medium heat before serving.