Creamy Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles: A Classic Comfort Food Recipe

This Creamy Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family meals. Made with tender egg noodles, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce, this classic recipe is quick, satisfying, and budget-friendly. With just a few pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can whip up this comforting dish in under 30 minutes!

In this guide, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, helpful cooking tips, and variations to make this stroganoff recipe uniquely yours.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Rich and Creamy: The sour cream-based sauce is smooth and packed with flavor.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap the protein for a different take.

Ingredients for Creamy Beef Stroganoff

For the Stroganoff

• 12 oz egg noodles: Wide egg noodles are ideal for soaking up the creamy sauce, but any pasta shape works.
• 1 lb ground beef: Lean ground beef works well, but feel free to substitute ground turkey or pork.
• 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Enhances the flavor with a savory kick.
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth: Forms the base of the sauce, giving it a rich, beefy flavor.
• 1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the sauce.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to a luscious consistency.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the beef and onions.
• 1 tsp paprika: Adds warmth and a mild smokiness to the dish.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Balances and enhances the flavors.

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh parsley: For a pop of color and freshness.
• Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a subtle kick.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite).
3. Drain the noodles, toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef and Onion

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook, breaking up the beef with a wooden spoon, until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 6-7 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour over the beef mixture. Stir well to coat the beef and onions evenly.
2. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As the sauce heats, it will begin to thicken.

Step 4: Add the Seasonings and Sour Cream

1. Stir in 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
2. Reduce the heat to low and add 1 cup of sour cream. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
3. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Combine with Egg Noodles

1. Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the creamy beef sauce.
2. Toss gently until the noodles are fully coated in the sauce and everything is evenly combined.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Serve the stroganoff hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper.
2. Pair with your favorite side dish or enjoy as is for a satisfying meal.

Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff

1. Use Lean Ground Beef: Avoid excess grease by using 85% lean ground beef or draining the fat after browning.
2. Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook the egg noodles to al dente so they don’t become mushy when tossed with the sauce.
3. Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low after adding the sour cream to prevent curdling.
4. Season Gradually: Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process for the best flavor.
5. Serve Immediately: Stroganoff is best enjoyed fresh while the sauce is creamy and hot.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy beef stroganoff pairs well with a variety of sides and beverages for a complete meal:

• Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots for added nutrients.
• Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Bread: Pair with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Wine: A light red wine like Pinot Noir or a dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc makes an excellent pairing.

Recipe Variations

1. Mushroom Stroganoff: Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions for a classic twist.
2. Vegetarian Stroganoff: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms.
3. Chicken Stroganoff: Use ground chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of beef.
4. Spicy Stroganoff: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
5. Cheesy Stroganoff: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for extra richness.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving, based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~450-500
• Protein: ~25g
• Fat: ~20g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fiber: ~2g

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce.
• Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Freezing:

• You can freeze the stroganoff without the noodles for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and serve with freshly cooked noodles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, other pasta shapes like fettuccine, penne, or even rice can work well.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the beef sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked noodles when ready to serve.

3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, full-fat Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream and provides a similar tangy creaminess.

4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding the sour cream and avoid bringing the sauce to a boil.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free egg noodles and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch.

6. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

The flour helps thicken the sauce. If it’s still too thin, simmer it a bit longer or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce.

7. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, peas, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions.

Conclusion

This Creamy Beef Stroganoff with Egg Noodles is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender noodles with a rich, velvety sauce and flavorful ground beef. Quick to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own creative twists, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Serve it up with your favorite sides and enjoy a warm, delicious meal!

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