Simple Hamburger Stroganoff

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Few dishes bring the warmth and comfort of a homemade meal like Simple Hamburger Stroganoff. This quick and easy recipe delivers all the creamy, savory goodness of classic stroganoff, with the added convenience of using ground beef. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty dish, this meal is sure to become a family favorite.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to prepare a delicious Hamburger Stroganoff, complete with tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make it truly your own.

Why You’ll Love Simple Hamburger Stroganoff

Quick and Easy: Made with pantry staples, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
Budget-Friendly: Using ground beef makes it an economical alternative to traditional stroganoff.
Rich and Flavorful: Creamy sauce, tender meat, and perfectly cooked noodles make it a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience.

What Is Hamburger Stroganoff?

Hamburger Stroganoff is a simpler version of the classic Russian dish Beef Stroganoff. Instead of expensive cuts of beef, it uses ground beef to create a rich, creamy sauce that’s served over noodles or rice. It’s comfort food at its finest—hearty, satisfying, and perfect for the whole family.

Ingredients for Simple Hamburger Stroganoff

Here’s a quick-reference table to help you gather what you need:

Ingredient	Quantity	Notes
Ground beef	1 lb	Lean ground beef is recommended.
Onion	1 medium, diced	Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
Garlic	2 cloves, minced	Enhances the savory profile.
Mushrooms	1 cup, sliced	Optional, but adds texture and flavor.
Beef broth	1 cup	Forms the base of the sauce.
Sour cream	1 cup	Provides the signature creaminess.
All-purpose flour	2 tbsp	Thickens the sauce.
Butter	2 tbsp	For sautéing the onions and mushrooms.
Worcestershire sauce	1 tbsp	Adds umami richness.
Egg noodles	12 oz	Cooked according to package instructions.
Salt and pepper	To taste	For seasoning.
Fresh parsley	Optional, chopped	For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
Drain any excess grease and set the cooked beef aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the Mushrooms

If using mushrooms, add them to the skillet with the onions and sauté until softened and browned, about 5 minutes.

4. Create the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the onion and mushroom mixture, stirring to coat evenly.
Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to avoid lumps. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Add the Worcestershire sauce and stir to combine.

5. Combine the Beef and Sauce

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to coat it in the sauce.
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and stir in the sour cream. Heat through, but do not boil, to avoid curdling.

6. Serve Over Noodles

Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
Spoon the Hamburger Stroganoff over the noodles and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips for Perfect Hamburger Stroganoff

Use Lean Ground Beef: This reduces the need for draining excess grease and keeps the dish lighter.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream along with the sour cream.
Don’t Skip the Worcestershire Sauce: It adds a depth of flavor that takes the dish to the next level.
Cook Noodles Just Before Serving: This keeps them from getting soggy.

Variations to Try

Hamburger Stroganoff is endlessly customizable. Here are some ideas to suit different tastes:

Add Vegetables: Stir in peas, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrients.
Use Greek Yogurt: Swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt for a lighter, protein-packed alternative.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of egg noodles.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.

Why This Recipe Works

Simple Yet Flavorful: The combination of onions, garlic, mushrooms, and Worcestershire sauce creates a rich, savory base.
Quick to Make: Perfect for weeknights when you need a satisfying meal on the table fast.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love its creamy, comforting taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Hamburger Stroganoff Ahead of Time?

Yes! Prepare the stroganoff up to the point of adding the sour cream, then refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop and stir in the sour cream just before serving.

What Can I Serve With Hamburger Stroganoff?

Garlic bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables make excellent side dishes.

Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Yes, but the sour cream may separate when reheated. For best results, freeze the stroganoff before adding the sour cream and stir it in after reheating.

Call to Action: Make Dinner a Breeze Tonight

Now that you know how to create the ultimate Simple Hamburger Stroganoff, it’s time to put your skills to the test. With just a few pantry staples and 30 minutes, you can serve a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Share this recipe with friends and family, and encourage them to try their own variations. Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated—this dish proves it.

Conclusion: A Comforting Classic Made Simple

Simple Hamburger Stroganoff combines the flavors of a classic dish with the convenience of an easy recipe. Its creamy sauce, savory ground beef, and tender noodles make it a meal that’s both satisfying and comforting.

Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or introducing a new family favorite, this recipe delivers on every front. Give it a try today and rediscover the joy of homemade comfort food—delicious, easy, and made with love.