The Best Hamburger Stroganoff Recipe

Hamburger Stroganoff is a comforting, delicious dish that combines tender ground beef with creamy, flavorful sauce. It’s a simplified version of the traditional beef stroganoff, but just as rich and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal on the table quickly. The creamy sauce, flavored with garlic, onion, and a touch of sour cream, pairs perfectly with egg noodles, creating a dish that the whole family will love.

Let’s dive into how to make this delightful meal at home!

What is Hamburger Stroganoff?

Hamburger Stroganoff is an easier take on the classic beef stroganoff. Traditionally, stroganoff uses strips of beef, but in this version, ground beef is the star. This swap makes it more affordable, quicker to prepare, and just as delicious. The creamy sauce made from a roux (a mixture of butter and flour), beef broth, milk, and sour cream brings everything together beautifully. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for feeding a hungry family.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at the key ingredients that make this dish a hit.

• 6 ounces Egg Noodles: These noodles are the traditional base for stroganoff. They have a soft, chewy texture that soaks up the sauce perfectly. If you’re out of egg noodles, you can use fettuccine or even rice.
• 1 pound Ground Beef: Using ground beef is a time-saver and budget-friendly. You can also swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• 1/4 cup Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and is used to create the roux. Margarine can be used as a substitute for those avoiding dairy.
• 1/4 cup Flour: Helps to thicken the sauce, giving it that creamy consistency. If you’re gluten-free, consider using cornstarch or gluten-free flour as a substitute.
• 1 cup Beef Broth: Provides depth of flavor and balances the richness of the milk and sour cream. A vegetable broth could work as a lighter alternative.
• 1 1/4 cup Milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce. Whole milk is ideal, but you can use any kind of milk or even a plant-based option like almond milk.
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These seasonings give the dish a savory boost without overpowering it.
• 3/4 teaspoon Salt and 1/2 teaspoon Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors.
• 1/4 cup Sour Cream: Sour cream brings a tangy creaminess to the sauce, creating that signature stroganoff taste. You could use Greek yogurt as a healthier substitute.

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this Hamburger Stroganoff:

• Large pot for boiling the noodles
• Large skillet for browning the ground beef and making the sauce
• Whisk for stirring the roux and sauce
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring and breaking up the beef
• Strainer for draining the noodles

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Hamburger Stroganoff:

1. Cook the Egg Noodles: Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Once they’re done, drain and set them aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: While the noodles are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and there’s no pink left, about 6-8 minutes. Drain the excess fat and set the beef aside on a plate.
3. Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to form a smooth roux. Be sure to whisk constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Add Beef Broth: Gradually pour in the beef broth, continuing to whisk to prevent any lumps from forming. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce starts to thicken.
5. Incorporate the Milk: Slowly add the milk while whisking continuously. Let the sauce cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens and becomes creamy.
6. Season the Sauce: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Combine Beef and Noodles: Reduce the heat to low and add the cooked egg noodles and browned ground beef back into the skillet. Stir everything together until the noodles and beef are fully coated in the sauce.
8. Finish with Sour Cream: Gently stir in the sour cream until it’s fully incorporated into the sauce, adding a rich, tangy flavor. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
9. Serve Hot: Serve your Hamburger Stroganoff hot, perhaps with a side of steamed vegetables or a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Lumpy Sauce: Whisk continuously when adding the broth and milk to prevent lumps. If you still end up with a few, you can strain the sauce before adding the beef and noodles.
• Overcooking the Noodles: Make sure to cook the noodles just until al dente, as they will absorb some of the sauce and soften further once mixed into the stroganoff.
• Too Much Fat in the Beef: Drain excess fat from the browned beef to avoid a greasy sauce.

Recipe Swaps and Variations

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter version, swap the beef for ground turkey or chicken.
• Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms when browning the beef for extra umami flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and substitute the flour with cornstarch or gluten-free flour to make this dish gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Swap the milk with almond or soy milk and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the stroganoff in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it’s too thick. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. You can also serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a more balanced meal. Garnishing with fresh parsley adds a nice touch of color and freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Hamburger Stroganoff can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld, making it even tastier. Just reheat on the stove before serving.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Substitute the egg noodles with a gluten-free variety, and use cornstarch or gluten-free flour in place of regular flour for the roux.

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and adds a similar tangy creaminess to the dish.

conclusion

This Hamburger Stroganoff recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a comforting, quick, and easy dinner. It’s full of rich, creamy flavors and is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and subscribe to the blog for more tasty meal ideas!

Print