If you’ve ever wanted a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, the Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty dish that combines tender ground beef, silky mushrooms, and a creamy sauce made with sour cream and mustard, all spooned over fluffy long grain rice. This recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner that’s not only satisfying and full of flavor but also surprisingly simple to prepare. It will quickly become a favorite go-to, especially when you crave something both classic and cozy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the rich flavors and textures that make Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe so irresistible. From the earthy mushrooms to the creamy sour cream, these staples are easy to find and even easier to love.
- 2 cups long grain white rice: The perfect fluffy base that soaks up all the stroganoff sauce.
- 4 cups water: To cook the rice just right.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the onions and mushrooms to golden perfection.
- 1 medium white onion, sliced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce as it cooks.
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms: Brings an earthy flavor and tender bite that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1 to 1 1/2 pounds ground beef: The star protein, juicy and full of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances every element in the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick that balances the creamy sauce.
- 1/4 cup salted butter: A rich base for creating the roux, giving the sauce its velvety texture.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce so it clings to every bite.
- 3 cups beef broth: Infuses the sauce with deep, savory flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle tang and complexity that elevates the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a gentle garlicky warmth without overpowering.
- 2 cups sour cream: Creams the sauce with a delightful tang and luscious texture.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional): Adds a sophisticated depth and little zing to the sauce.
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by rinsing your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This washes away excess starch and prevents it from becoming gummy. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a medium saucepan, then add the rice with a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms
While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until it softens and becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Toss in the mushrooms and sauté until they release their moisture and start to brown. This step builds the savory flavor base for your stroganoff.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Increase the heat slightly and add the ground beef to the skillet with onions and mushrooms. Season with salt and black pepper. Break the meat apart with a spatula, cooking until it’s no longer pink and has some nice browned bits for flavor. Drain excess fat if there’s too much to keep the dish balanced.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Push the beef mixture to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle the flour over it and stir constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for a minute or two until it bubbles slightly and turns golden, which removes the raw flour taste and will thicken your sauce beautifully.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Gradually whisk in the beef broth, combining the roux and broth to create a smooth sauce. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder for an extra flavor kick. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the pan.
Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream and Mustard
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and mix in the sour cream and Dijon mustard if using. Stir until everything is combined and heated through but avoid boiling, which can cause the sour cream to curdle. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To add a bright finish and fresh contrast, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the stroganoff just before serving. You can also add a sprinkle of paprika for a subtle smoky touch and appealing presentation. These little touches make a huge difference in flavor and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
This dish is incredibly satisfying on its own, especially with all that creamy sauce and rich beef, but you can round out the meal with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a fresh bite. Roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts also pair beautifully, balancing the richness of the stroganoff.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe in shallow bowls, letting the sauce pool around the tender rice. You can also turn it into a layered casserole by mixing everything together and topping with melted cheese or crispy breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a quick and tasty next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to meal prep or save some for later, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. Frozen stroganoff keeps its delicious flavor and texture for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. If the sauce feels too thick after refrigeration, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring halfway through for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground beef is the easiest choice, but you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind that the flavor and fat content will change, so you might want to adjust seasonings accordingly.
Is it okay to substitute sour cream with something else?
Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free or lower-fat option, plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can work well as substitutes. Just add them at the end of cooking over low heat to prevent curdling.
Can I prepare the ground beef stroganoff sauce in advance?
You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it separately in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat slowly and then serve it over freshly cooked rice for the best texture.
How do I make the rice fluffy and not sticky?
Rinsing the rice before cooking is a game changer. Also, use the proper amount of water and avoid stirring the rice during cooking. Let it rest covered for a few minutes after cooking to allow it to steam and become perfectly fluffy.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The creamy texture and mild flavors in this Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe often make it a hit with kids. You can adjust seasonings like garlic powder and pepper to suit their tastes as well.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe is one of those dishes that never fails to bring comfort and satisfaction to the table. It’s simple to make yet feels special, packed with layers of flavor that warm your soul. I hope you give it a try soon and see how easily it becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen as it is in mine.
Print
Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ground Beef Stroganoff and Rice recipe is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for a family meal. Featuring tender ground beef and mushrooms in a creamy sour cream sauce, served over fluffy long grain white rice, this classic dish comes together in just 30 minutes for a satisfying and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients
Rice
- 2 cups long grain white rice
- 4 cups water
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium white onion, sliced
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 1 to 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Sauce
- 1/4 cup salted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 cups sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the long grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine the rice and 4 cups of water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand covered.
- Sauté the Vegetables: While the rice is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until the mushrooms are browned and tender, about 5-6 minutes.
- Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and mushrooms. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until no longer pink and browned evenly, about 7-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Make the Stroganoff Sauce: In the same skillet, push the beef mixture to the side. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely. Sprinkle the flour over the butter and whisk constantly to make a roux; cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps remain. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and garlic powder. Allow the sauce to simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Finish the Stroganoff: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream and Dijon mustard (if using) until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide among six plates. Spoon the ground beef stroganoff mixture over the rice and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- To make the dish gluten-free, use gluten-free all-purpose flour or cornstarch as a thickener.
- The Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang; omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth or low sodium broth to control salt content.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
