Poor Man’s Stroganoff
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Ground Beef:
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat, or go with regular for a richer taste. If using ground turkey or sausage, adjust seasoning accordingly.
- 1 can Cream of Mushroom Soup:
- This serves as the base of the sauce, providing creaminess and flavor. You can use other cream soups like cream of chicken or cream of celery if preferred.
- 8 oz Egg Noodles:
- Cooked until al dente. You can substitute with other pasta shapes or even rice.
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced:
- Adds depth of flavor. Adjust quantity to taste if you prefer a milder or stronger garlic flavor.
- Salt and Pepper, to taste:
- Essential for seasoning. You can also use other spices like paprika, thyme, or parsley.
- Optional:
- 1 small Onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory flavor. Sauté with the beef if using.
- 1/2 cup Sour Cream: Adds extra creaminess and tang. Mix in at the end for best results.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Noodles:
- Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
- Cook Noodles: Add egg noodles to the boiling water. Cook according to package instructions, typically 7-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Drain: Drain the noodles and set aside.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat Skillet: In a large skillet or frying pan, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat.
- Brown Beef: Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into crumbles with a spatula or spoon.
- Add Onions (Optional): If using onions, add them once the beef starts to brown. Cook until onions are translucent and softened.
- Add Garlic:
- Incorporate Garlic: Add minced garlic to the beef (and onions if used). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Make the Sauce:
- Add Soup: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup, mixing until well combined with the beef.
- Add Sour Cream (Optional): For a richer texture, stir in sour cream. Continue to cook on low heat.
- Season the Mixture:
- Season to Taste: Add salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to add other spices or herbs if desired, such as paprika for smokiness or dried thyme for an earthy flavor.
- Combine with Noodles:
- Mix Noodles: Add the cooked and drained egg noodles to the beef mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat the noodles with the sauce.
- Serve:
- Hot and Ready: Serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Additional Tips:
- For Creamier Sauce: If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash of milk or a bit of heavy cream.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: You can stir in vegetables like peas, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them with the onions or add them directly to the skillet with the soup.
- Leftovers and Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or broth if the sauce thickens too much upon reheating.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
This hearty dish is a great option for a filling meal that’s both budget-friendly and comforting. Enjoy your homemade Poor Man’s Stroganoff!