Economical and Flavorful: Ground Beef Stroganoff for a Family of Four

In the quest for economical yet satisfying meals for the family, ground beef emerges as a versatile hero. It's affordable, widely available, and can be used in a myriad of recipes that appeal to both children and adults alike. One such dish is Ground Beef Stroganoff, a simpler and budget-friendly twist on the classic recipe that traditionally uses more expensive cuts of beef. This version maintains the creamy, comforting essence of the original with ingredients that are easy on the wallet. Here’s how to prepare this delightful dish for a family of four.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 8 oz (225g) egg noodles
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have browned, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

4. Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and add Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Combine Beef and Sauce: Return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Stir to combine and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until thickened to your liking.

6. Finish with Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the sour cream until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

7. Assemble the Dish: Serve the stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Nutritional Benefits and Cost Effectiveness:

Ground beef is not only economical but also rich in protein and iron, which are essential for body function and energy levels. Mushrooms add an umami flavor and are a good source of B vitamins. The simplicity of the ingredients helps keep costs down, making this dish a frequent go-to for budget-conscious families.

Variations and Tips:

• Low-Fat Options: For a healthier version, use lean ground beef and a light sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Boost the nutritional value by adding spinach or peas to the stroganoff during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it ideal for leftovers. Simply store in the refrigerator and gently reheat, adding a little broth if the sauce thickens too much.

Conclusion:

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a testament to how economical ingredients can be transformed into a delicious meal that feeds the whole family without breaking the bank. It’s a perfect example of comfort food that’s easy to make, fulfilling, and friendly on the wallet. Give this recipe a try for your next family dinner, and enjoy a classic comfort dish that will become a new favorite.