Name: One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef (85/15 or 80/20); 1 to 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or vegetable oil (for cooking, plus 2 to 3 teaspoons oil for browning beef); 1 small yellow onion, chopped ((1/2 to 3/4 cup)); 12 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced (1/4-inch thick); 2 large garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup cognac ((can also use dry white wine)); 3 tablespoons all purpose flour; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 to 2 teaspoons sweet Hungarian paprika (to taste); 1 1/2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme leaves (divided); 3 1/2 to 4 cups beef broth or stock; 8 ounces dried extra wide egg noodles; 1/2 to 2/3 cup sour cream (depending on how creamy you like your stroganoff); 3 tablespoons chopped flat-leaf parsley; 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice ((optional)); Diamond Crystal kosher salt; freshly-ground black pepper

Introduction to One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

Why choose one pan meals?

One pan meals like this one pan ground beef stroganoff are a lifesaver for busy weeknights. Let’s face it: after a long day, the last thing you want is to deal with a pile of dishes. Cooking everything in just one pan simplifies not only the cooking process but also the cleanup. Plus, it allows the flavors to meld beautifully as they simmer together, resulting in a dish that’s both convenient and delicious.

The joys of homemade comfort food

There's something incredibly satisfying about preparing homemade comfort food. Ground beef stroganoff, with its rich, creamy sauce and tender mushrooms, is like a warm hug on a plate! Studies show that cooking at home can even boost your mood and improve overall well-being, making it a great choice for self-care. When you make it yourself, you have complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to tailor the dish to your tastes and dietary needs. Furthermore, sharing a bowl of this comforting meal with friends or family can turn an ordinary dinner into a cherished memory. So, roll up your sleeves and discover the joy of creating a luxurious yet simple dish that’s ready in just about 30 minutes!

Ingredients for One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

Essential ingredients for a hearty stroganoff

To whip up a delightful one pan ground beef stroganoff, you'll need a few core ingredients that guarantee that rich, comforting flavor profile. Here’s what you’ll want on your shopping list:

1 pound of ground beef (leaner cuts like 85/15 work best)
Egg noodles: 8 ounces of extra-wide varieties are perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce
Cremini mushrooms: About 12 ounces, sliced for texture
A small yellow onion: Adds sweetness; you’ll need around ½ to ¾ cup, chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced for aromatic goodness
Beef broth: 3½ to 4 cups, the backbone of your sauce
Sour cream: ½ to ⅔ cup, adding creaminess and tang

These ingredients will set you up for a deliciously hearty meal that’s ready in just about 30 minutes!

Optional ingredients for enhanced flavor

If you want to elevate your one pan ground beef stroganoff even further, consider adding these ingredients for extra depth of flavor:

Cognac or dry white wine: ¼ cup; it enhances the umami notes nicely
Dijon mustard: 1 tablespoon for a hint of zest
Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon for that savory kick
Sweet Hungarian paprika: 1 to 2 teaspoons, depending on your preference
Fresh thyme: 1½ teaspoons, divided for freshness
Lemon juice: A teaspoon can brighten the whole dish

These optional flavors can transform a lovely stroganoff into a culinary masterpiece! For more ingredient ideas, check out resources like the Mushroom Council or Beef It's What's for Dinner.

Step-by-step Preparation for One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

Making a delicious one pan ground beef stroganoff doesn’t have to be complicated! In just a few simple steps, you’ll create a comforting dish that’ll have your taste buds singing. Let’s dive right in.

Gather and prepare your ingredients

Start by collecting all your ingredients for a streamlined cooking process. Here’s a quick checklist:

1 pound ground beef (85/15 or 80/20 for the right balance of flavor)
1 small yellow onion, chopped
12 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup cognac or a preferred substitute like apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 to 2 teaspoons sweet Hungarian paprika
1½ teaspoons fresh thyme, divided
3½ to 4 cups beef broth
8 ounces egg noodles
½ to ⅔ cup sour cream
Chopped parsley and lemon juice for garnish

Chopping your veggies and measuring your spices ahead of time will make the cooking process enjoyable and hassle-free!

Brown the ground beef

In a large nonstick skillet or sauté pan, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the ground beef, sprinkling in a few pinches of salt and cracked black pepper. Allow it to brown undisturbed for a few minutes. This step is crucial! Letting it brown creates a nice crust that adds flavor. Once browned, remove the beef with a slotted spoon and set it aside while keeping the juices in the pan.

Sauté the vegetables

Next, it’s time for the aromatics! In the same pan, add your onion, mushrooms, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the mixture softens and starts to brown—this usually takes about 5 minutes. The releasing mushroom liquid combined with the sautéing onions creates a tantalizing aroma. Don’t forget to add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Build the sauce

Now, let’s elevate those flavors! Pour in your cognac, scraping the bottom of the skillet to incorporate all those flavorful bits—this is where the magic happens. Once the cognac has mostly evaporated, add the beef back into the pan and sprinkle with flour. Give it a good stir to coat everything evenly.

Next, add the beef broth, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and half of the thyme. Stir until well combined, and get ready for the noodles!

Cook the egg noodles

Stir in the uncooked egg noodles, ensuring they’re submerged in the liquid. Bring your concoction to a boil, then cover the pan and reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are cooked through.

Stir in the sour cream and serve

Finally, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the sour cream, the remaining thyme, and a couple of tablespoons of parsley. The sour cream gives the stroganoff that iconic creamy texture—delish! Season with salt and pepper to taste, and if you want, add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.

Serve hot, garnished with parsley. Enjoy your homemade one pan ground beef stroganoff!

By following these steps, you're not just preparing a meal; you're creating a dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Happy cooking!

Variations of One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

Mushroom-only variant

For a deliciously earthy twist, try a mushroom-only variant of your one pan ground beef stroganoff. Simply omit the beef and increase the quantity of mushrooms to about 24 ounces. Use a mix of your favorites—like shiitake, portobello, or even wild mushrooms—for an exquisite flavor. Consider adding a splash of vegetable broth for depth, and finish with fresh herbs to elevate the dish.

Adding vegetables for a twist

Want to amp up the nutrition? Incorporate seasonal vegetables into your one pan ground beef stroganoff! Think bell peppers, spinach, or even green beans. Just sauté them alongside the onions and mushrooms, allowing them to soften and absorb the delightful flavors of the sauce. This not only adds color to your plate but makes the dish even heartier.

Using different pasta shapes

Don't hesitate to experiment with different pasta shapes when preparing your one pan ground beef stroganoff. While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free options like brown rice pasta. Just keep an eye on the cooking time; you may need to adjust the amount of broth based on the pasta’s shape and thickness. This could be the perfect opportunity to match the pasta with your culinary theme for the evening!

Cooking Tips and Notes for One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

Tips for Perfecting the Sauce

To achieve a luscious, creamy texture in your one pan ground beef stroganoff, be sure to gradually incorporate your sour cream after removing the pan from heat. This prevents curdling and gives your sauce that coveted smoothness! If it feels too thin, simply let it rest for a few minutes to thicken up before serving.

Adjusting Flavors and Spice Levels

Feel free to adjust the level of sweetness and spice in your dish. A touch of Dijon mustard can enhance the flavor, while extra paprika can provide a deeper color and smoky taste. If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of cayenne can elevate this comforting dish. Don’t hesitate to taste as you go—this is how you’ll really make the recipe your own! For more flavor ideas, check out this spice guide.

Serving Suggestions for One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

Ideal Pairing with Side Dishes

When enjoying your one pan ground beef stroganoff, consider pairing it with some delightful side dishes. A light, crisp salad, like a mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette, can balance the richness of the stroganoff. Steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, also add a fresh crunch. For a cozy touch, warm garlic bread makes for an excellent utensil for soaking up every drop of that creamy sauce.

Best Ways to Garnish

Garnishing your one pan ground beef stroganoff can elevate the dish aesthetically and flavor-wise. Freshly chopped parsley is a classic choice that adds a splash of color. If you want an extra zing, consider a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or chopped chives on top just before serving. A dash of lemon zest can brighten the dish beautifully, complementing the savory flavors. Don't hesitate to get creative—these simple touches can make a world of difference! For more tips, check out this article on enhancing home-cooked meals.

Time Breakdown for One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

When you're craving a delicious meal but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen, this one pan ground beef stroganoff is your go-to option. Here’s how the timing breaks down:

Preparation Time

Spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready. Chop the onions, slice the mushrooms, and gather your ingredients—simple and quick!

Cooking Time

The cooking process takes approximately 20 minutes. It's just enough time for the beef to brown perfectly and the egg noodles to soak up all those delightful flavors.

Total Time

In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining friends!

Ready to dive into this easy recipe? Get your skillet and let's get cooking! For more insights on how to enhance your dishes, check out The Spruce Eats for fantastic culinary tips.

Nutritional Facts for One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

When it comes to comfort food, this one pan ground beef stroganoff hits the spot while still being mindful of your nutritional needs. Below is a quick breakdown:

Calories

Each serving of this delicious dish contains approximately 448 calories, making it a hearty option for dinner without overindulging.

Protein

Packed with 23 grams of protein, ground beef adds a satisfying element to your meal, helping you feel full and energized.

Sodium

Sodium levels come in at about 730 milligrams per serving, which is something to watch if you're managing your salt intake. Pair it with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a balanced plate.

For more on making healthier choices, consider checking out the USDA's Dietary Guidelines. Enjoy your meal with all the comforting flavors!

FAQ about One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works great in this one pan ground beef stroganoff. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey may require a slightly shorter cooking duration than beef. Season generously to ensure the flavors shine through!

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you're not a fan of sour cream or need a dairy-free option, you can use plain Greek yogurt, which provides a similar creaminess and tang. For a vegan alternative, try blended silken tofu or a cashew cream. Both will give a rich texture without compromising the taste of your dish.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this one pan ground beef stroganoff gluten-free, simply swap regular egg noodles for gluten-free pasta. You’ll also want to ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free options. This way, you can enjoy a hearty meal without any gluten concerns!

For more tips on substitutions, check out our Substitutions section.

Conclusion on One Pan Ground Beef Stroganoff

In just 30 minutes, this one pan ground beef stroganoff transforms simple ingredients into a delicious, creamy dish everyone will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a comfort food classic that’s both satisfying and quick to make. Try it, and you might just find a new favorite dinner!