Hamburger Stroganoff

This Hamburger Stroganoff is the perfect solution for a quick, hearty weeknight meal. The combination of tender ground beef, rich cream cheese, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce makes for a comforting dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With egg noodles soaking up all the flavors, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for families.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. It’s a wallet-friendly version of the classic beef stroganoff, but without sacrificing any of the creamy, savory goodness. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, this stroganoff is sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

Full Recipe:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese
• 1 (4-ounce) can mushrooms with liquid
• 1 packet gravy mix
• 1 (10.75-ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 (12-ounce) package egg noodles
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Fill a large pot with lightly salted water and bring to a rapid boil. Cook egg noodles until tender yet firm to the bite, 7 to 9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Meanwhile, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef, stirring occasionally, until browned and crumbly, 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard the grease.
3. Stir in the cream cheese, mushrooms with their liquid, and gravy mix. Cook and stir over medium heat until the cream cheese melts, 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Add the condensed soup, sour cream, and milk. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3 to 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the drained egg noodles into the beef mixture and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes

Kcal: 510 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

History and Origins

Beef stroganoff is a classic Russian dish that dates back to the 19th century. Traditionally made with sautéed beef, onions, and sour cream, it became popular in various forms worldwide. The version with ground beef, commonly known as Hamburger Stroganoff, is an American adaptation that simplifies the dish by using a more affordable and accessible cut of meat—ground beef—while maintaining the same rich and creamy flavors of the original.

Why Hamburger Stroganoff is a Crowd-Pleaser

This recipe is an ideal family-friendly meal due to its simplicity, affordability, and ability to feed a crowd with minimal effort. It combines comfort food elements like creamy textures and hearty flavors, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s customizable—you can easily add veggies like peas or spinach to the dish, or swap the ground beef for turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.

Customization Tips

• For extra veggies: You can toss in spinach, peas, or sautéed onions and garlic with the beef to add more nutrients and texture.
• For a lighter option: Swap out ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. You can also use low-fat cream cheese and sour cream.
• For a richer flavor: Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard can deepen the savory notes.
• For gluten-free diets: You can replace the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta or serve the stroganoff over mashed potatoes or rice.

Pairing Suggestions

This creamy, savory dish pairs well with a crisp, green salad for a lighter contrast or roasted vegetables like broccoli or carrots. A glass of dry white wine or light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, can complement the rich, creamy sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Storage: Leftover Hamburger Stroganoff can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce as it may thicken in the fridge.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 510 kcal per serving
• Protein: Ground beef provides a high amount of protein, making this dish hearty and filling.
• Carbs: Egg noodles offer a substantial carbohydrate source, perfect for an energy boost during lunch or dinner.
• Fat: The cream cheese, sour cream, and ground beef contribute to the richness of the dish, offering satisfying fats, although lighter dairy options can be used to reduce the overall fat content.

Fun Fact

Did you know? While beef stroganoff is often associated with Russian cuisine, its global popularity led to a variety of adaptations. In Sweden, for example, it’s made with sausage and is called “korv stroganoff.”

This easy Hamburger Stroganoff recipe is a delicious spin on a traditional classic that’s sure to please your audience, whether they are beginners or experienced home cooks.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Ground Beef: A great source of high-quality protein, iron, and vitamin B12, which are essential for muscle growth, energy production, and red blood cell formation. Opting for lean ground beef can lower the saturated fat content.
• Mushrooms: Low in calories but packed with nutrients like B vitamins and selenium. Mushrooms add an umami flavor and provide antioxidants that help protect cells from damage.
• Egg Noodles: While traditional egg noodles are carb-heavy, they provide a quick source of energy. For a healthier twist, you can substitute them with whole wheat or gluten-free noodles, depending on your dietary needs.
• Sour Cream: While rich in fats, sour cream offers a creamy texture and adds a tangy flavor to the dish. For a lighter version, Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute.
• Cream Cheese: This adds creaminess and richness to the sauce. Light or reduced-fat cream cheese can be used to decrease the calorie count.

How to Serve Hamburger Stroganoff

This dish is perfect on its own, but here are some serving ideas to elevate the experience:

• Over Rice: If you’re looking to change it up, serve Hamburger Stroganoff over a bed of rice. It works particularly well with jasmine or brown rice.
• Mashed Potatoes: For an even more comforting dish, serve the stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes. The starchy base soaks up the savory sauce perfectly.
• Zoodles or Spaghetti Squash: For a low-carb option, consider replacing egg noodles with zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash. This adds extra veggies while keeping the dish lighter.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based meat or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly stroganoff. Use dairy alternatives like vegan cream cheese and sour cream to maintain the creamy texture.
2. Spicy Stroganoff: Add a kick of heat by incorporating chili flakes or hot sauce. You can also use spicy ground sausage instead of beef for a different flavor profile.
3. Cheesy Stroganoff: For a more indulgent version, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the sauce. This will give the stroganoff an even richer flavor.
4. Herbed Stroganoff: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or thyme can be added to the sauce to enhance the flavor. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley over the final dish adds a bright, fresh touch.
5. Low-Calorie Option: Opt for ground turkey instead of beef and use reduced-fat dairy products. Serve over whole-wheat noodles or spiralized vegetables for a lighter yet satisfying meal.

What Makes This Recipe Stand Out

• Quick and Easy: One of the best features of this Hamburger Stroganoff recipe is its simplicity. It requires only a handful of ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
• Affordable: By using ground beef instead of pricier cuts like sirloin or tenderloin, this stroganoff is much easier on the wallet without sacrificing flavor.
• Versatile: Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this recipe adapts well to different occasions.

Perfect Occasions for Hamburger Stroganoff

• Weeknight Dinners: Its quick cook time makes it an ideal dish to whip up after a long day of work or school. It’s ready in about 25 minutes and requires minimal cleanup, thanks to its one-skillet preparation.
• Meal Prep: Hamburger Stroganoff is also a great option for meal prepping. You can make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or dinners throughout the week. It stores well in the fridge and reheats easily.
• Potluck Parties: This hearty dish can be a hit at potlucks or family gatherings. You can easily double the recipe to feed a crowd.

Kitchen Tips and Tricks

• Use a Non-Stick Skillet: Using a non-stick or cast-iron skillet can help prevent the ground beef from sticking, and it allows for easier cleanup.
• Save Time: You can brown the ground beef in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to make the dish, simply combine the pre-cooked beef with the sauce ingredients.
• Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If you find the sauce is too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with a bit more milk or beef broth. Conversely, if the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken up.