Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Crepes: A Simple Yet Elegant Comfort Food Recipe
There are certain dishes that instantly evoke a feeling of warmth, nostalgia, and pure satisfaction. Beef stroganoff, with its creamy, savory sauce and tender beef, is undeniably one of them. While often considered a more elaborate meal, this recipe introduces you to an incredibly easy beef stroganoff made with ground beef, transforming a classic into a quick and approachable weeknight dinner. But we don’t stop there – we elevate this humble comfort food into a surprisingly elegant dish by serving it nestled within delicate, homemade savory French crepes.
Some recipes are treasured family heirlooms, passed down through generations, carrying stories and traditions within their very flavors. Others are born from moments of personal inspiration, granting the creator full bragging rights for their culinary genius. Then, there are those delightful recipes we simply pick up along life’s journey, often from unexpected places. This particular easy ground beef stroganoff recipe falls into the latter category, originating from a seventh-grade Home Economics class. It’s a testament to its fundamental simplicity and enduring appeal.
This method for preparing beef stroganoff uses readily available ground beef (often referred to as hamburger meat), making it incredibly straightforward and budget-friendly. The resulting dish is so simple to execute that it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned chefs looking for a quick yet satisfying meal. Complementing this ease, the savory crepes are also surprisingly simple to prepare, requiring no special equipment beyond a basic skillet. For a detailed guide on how to make them, you can find my comprehensive post HERE.
Despite its humble beginnings and uncomplicated preparation, this recipe for Beef Stroganoff Crepes holds a special place in my heart. It remains, to this day, one of my absolute favorite dishes to make and enjoy. Its combination of creamy texture, rich flavor, and the elegant presentation provided by the crepes makes it a dish I return to again and again.
Understanding Beef Stroganoff: A Culinary Journey
At its core, Beef Stroganoff is a classic Russian dish, traditionally featuring sautéed pieces of beef served in a rich sauce made with sour cream. Its origins are often attributed to a French chef working for the Stroganov family in 19th-century Russia, blending French culinary techniques with Russian ingredients. From these aristocratic beginnings, the dish’s popularity swiftly spread across the globe, leading to a myriad of adaptations and interpretations.
In various parts of the world, beef stroganoff has evolved to suit local tastes and available ingredients. In America, the common rendition often includes tender beef pieces, sour cream, and frequently incorporates mushrooms and onions, typically served over egg noodles. Across the Atlantic, in the UK and Australia, you’ll find similar preparations, but with rice as the preferred accompaniment. This recipe embraces the spirit of adaptation by using ground beef, which makes it an incredibly accessible and quick version of this beloved classic, all while retaining its signature creamy and savory essence.
Why Ground Beef for Easy Stroganoff?
While traditional beef stroganoff often calls for more expensive cuts of beef like sirloin or tenderloin, our easy beef stroganoff recipe leverages the versatility and affordability of ground beef. This choice is not just about cost-saving; it’s a strategic move for creating a truly simple and quick dinner. Ground beef cooks much faster and more uniformly than steak strips, eliminating the need for precise searing or marinating. It also blends beautifully into the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
The texture of ground beef also creates a comforting, hearty filling that’s perfect for crepes, noodles, or rice. When cooked properly and drained of excess fat, ground beef offers a succulent and tender experience that rivals its more upscale counterparts in terms of pure comfort food satisfaction. This makes it an ideal ingredient for a dish designed to be both “easy” and incredibly delicious, proving that gourmet flavors don’t always require gourmet ingredients or extensive effort.
Essential Ingredients for Your Easy Beef Stroganoff
As the name suggests, “easy” is the operative word here, and the ingredient list reflects that commitment to simplicity. You’ll notice me emphasizing “easy” throughout, and for good reason—this is a recipe so straightforward it was taught in middle school Home Economics! Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious and fuss-free beef stroganoff:
- Ground Beef: The star of our show. I’ve successfully used various fat percentages, from 80% lean up to 93%. The key is to ensure you drain any excess fat thoroughly after browning to prevent a greasy sauce.
- Onion: White or yellow onions work perfectly, providing a foundational aromatic flavor. If fresh onions aren’t on hand, a tablespoon of dried minced onion can be a convenient substitute. For the best flavor profile, Vidalia or red onions are generally not recommended for this particular recipe.
- Garlic: Just one clove of minced fresh garlic adds a pungent depth. Alternatively, half a teaspoon of garlic powder can be used for ease.
- Mushrooms: Fresh mushrooms are highly recommended. They contribute a wonderful earthy flavor and are a key source of umami, enriching the overall taste of the stroganoff. Chop them roughly to ensure they cook down nicely with the beef.
- Seasonings: A simple yet effective blend of salt, pepper, and paprika. These spices enhance the natural flavors of the beef and add a subtle warmth.
- Condensed Cream of Mushroom Soup: This is the secret ingredient for the “easy” factor! It acts as an instant thickener and flavor base, making the sauce incredibly creamy and rich without needing to prepare a roux from scratch. It truly is the undisputed king of convenience in this recipe.
- Reduced Fat Sour Cream: While regular sour cream can certainly be substituted, I personally prefer the lighter, slightly looser consistency that reduced-fat sour cream lends to this dish. It makes the sauce silky smooth and prevents it from becoming overly heavy.
- Chives: A sprinkle of fresh, snipped chives serves as a beautiful garnish. That touch of vibrant green not only adds visual appeal but also a subtle oniony freshness that brightens the entire dish, making even the simplest presentation feel special.
- Savory Crepes: These are crucial for the elegant presentation of this particular version. In the US, you might find pre-made crepes in grocery stores (often in the produce section near items like shortcake), but beware, as these are frequently sweetened and intended for dessert applications. For this savory stroganoff, you’ll want unsweetened crepes. You can easily make your own savory crepes at home with no special equipment beyond a small skillet. My post How to Make Savory Crepes provides a step-by-step tutorial.
Preparing Your Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff: Step-by-Step
Crafting this delicious dish is refreshingly simple. Follow these steps for a perfect, creamy ground beef stroganoff that’s ready to impress.
First and foremost, you’ll need your savory crepes ready. You can either procure them from a store or, for the freshest and most authentic experience, make them yourself following my guide on How to Make Savory Crepes. Once prepared, set them aside. There’s no need to worry about keeping them warm while you focus on the stroganoff filling; they reheat beautifully when baked with the filling.
Step 1: Cook the Beef, Mushrooms, Onion, and Garlic.
Begin by heating a large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped fresh mushrooms to the pan. Brown the mixture thoroughly, breaking up the ground beef with a spoon or spatula as it cooks, until the meat is no longer pink. A crucial step for a rich, non-greasy stroganoff is to drain off any accumulated fat from the pan. While many recipes (including my own in other contexts) call for browning mushrooms separately for optimal caramelization, in the spirit of making this an *easy* beef stroganoff, we’ll cook them all together. This simplifies the process without sacrificing flavor in this particular application.
Step 2: Season and Simmer with Condensed Soup.
Once the beef mixture is cooked and drained, it’s time to build the sauce. Stir in the salt, pepper, and paprika. Next, add the undiluted can of condensed cream of mushroom soup. This ingredient is your secret weapon for a quick, creamy, and flavorful sauce. Stir everything together until well combined, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. After simmering, taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed, particularly salt. I’ve listed 1/2 teaspoon of salt in the recipe card, but I often add a bit more to my own dishes as I prefer a bolder seasoning. It’s always best to start with less and add more to your preference.
Step 3: Finish with Sour Cream.
Remove the skillet from the heat before adding the sour cream. Stir it in until the sauce is smooth and evenly incorporated. Adding the sour cream off the heat prevents it from curdling, ensuring a silky texture. At this point, your flavorful and creamy ground beef stroganoff filling is complete and ready to be served or incorporated into your crepes.
Versatile Serving Ideas for Beef Stroganoff
While serving this easy beef stroganoff in savory crepes adds an undeniable touch of elegance, it’s far from the only way to enjoy this comforting dish. If you’re not in the mood for crepes or simply prefer a more traditional presentation, this ground beef stroganoff is incredibly versatile. Keep in mind that this specific recipe is designed for a slightly thicker consistency, perfect for filling crepes. If you plan to serve it over other bases, I highly recommend adding a little beef stock (a quarter to half a cup, or until desired consistency is reached) to thin the sauce out a touch.
Here are several delicious ways to serve your beef stroganoff:
- Over Buttered Egg Noodles: This is arguably the most classic American pairing for beef stroganoff. The broad, tender noodles are perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy sauce.
- With Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A comforting and hearty option. The fluffy mashed potatoes provide a wonderful textural contrast and absorb the rich flavors beautifully.
- Over Fluffy Rice: Whether it’s white rice, brown rice, or even wild rice, this provides a light and absorbent base, popular in many global interpretations of stroganoff.
- In Popovers or Yorkshire Pudding: For a truly impressive and unique presentation, spoon the stroganoff into freshly baked popovers or individual Yorkshire puddings. The light, airy texture of these pastry-like delights creates a fantastic vessel for the rich filling.
- In Pepperidge Farm Puffed Pastry Cups: A super easy and visually appealing option. Simply bake the pre-made pastry cups according to package directions, then fill them with the warm stroganoff.
- As a Sandwich Filling: For a quick lunch or a casual dinner, spoon the stroganoff into toasted buns or crusty bread for a savory, open-faced sandwich.
- Straight from the Pan with a Spoon: And yes, because this dish is THAT good, sometimes the simplest way to enjoy it is directly from the cooking pan with a spoon. No judgment here!
No matter how you choose to serve it, be sure to include a side of warm, crusty bread. It’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce and completing this incredibly satisfying meal.
Can This Recipe Be Made in Advance?
Absolutely! Both the delicious beef stroganoff filling and the delicate savory crepes can be prepared a day ahead, making this an excellent option for meal prep or entertaining. To do so, store the stroganoff filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and stack the crepes with parchment paper between them, also stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the crepes with the filling, place them in a baking dish, and bake as directed to heat them through. While these crepes reheat beautifully, they might lose a tiny bit of those coveted crispy edges that fresh-baked crepes boast, but they will still be wonderfully soft and flavorful.
Can Stroganoff Be Frozen?
Yes, the beef stroganoff filling (without the crepes) freezes exceptionally well, making it perfect for future quick meals. The beauty of using ground beef here is that the meat won’t get tough after freezing and thawing, unlike some other cuts. Allow the stroganoff to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight freezer-safe container. For added protection against freezer burn, I recommend pressing a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the mixture before sealing the container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. When ready to use, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock or milk if needed to restore its creamy consistency.
Meat Substitutions for Ground Beef
While ground beef is the traditional and recommended choice for this easy beef stroganoff recipe, you certainly have options if you’re looking for an alternative or want to lighten the dish. Ground turkey or ground chicken make excellent substitutions, offering a leaner protein choice while still providing a hearty base for the creamy sauce. When using these alternatives, ensure they are cooked through and any liquid is drained before proceeding with the sauce, just as you would with ground beef. The flavors of the mushroom soup and sour cream will still shine through, creating a delicious and satisfying meal with your chosen protein.
Last Tips for the Perfect Easy Stroganoff Crepes
To ensure your easy ground beef stroganoff crepes turn out perfectly every time, keep these final tips in mind:
- Choose the Right Skillet: A good quality nonstick skillet is highly recommended for browning the ground beef and cooking the sauce without sticking. If you’re using a regular skillet, you might need to add a small amount of oil (like olive oil or vegetable oil) before adding the meat to prevent it from sticking and burning to the pan.
- Even Crepe Filling: When spooning the stroganoff filling onto your crepes, use a spoon or spatula to divide the mixture roughly into equal portions in the skillet beforehand. This helps ensure that you have enough delicious filling for each and every crepe, avoiding the dreaded empty-crepe scenario! Approximately 2 heaping tablespoons of filling typically suffice for one crepe.
- Season to Your Taste: Always taste your stroganoff before adding the sour cream and again after it’s fully combined. Pay particular attention to the salt levels. I tend to be heavy-handed with salt in my own cooking, but I’ve provided a more moderate amount in the recipe card. Remember, you can always add more salt if needed, but you can’t take it away!
- Adjusting Consistency for Different Servings: As mentioned, this recipe creates a thicker stroganoff, ideal for crepes. If you decide to serve this versatile dish over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, I highly recommend loosening it up slightly. A splash of beef stock or even milk (start with 1/4 to 1/2 cup) stirred in while reheating will give it a smoother, more saucy consistency, perfect for coating your chosen accompaniment.
Looking for More Easy Dinner Ideas?
If you loved the simplicity and flavor of these easy ground beef stroganoff crepes, you’ll be happy to know there are plenty more fuss-free and delicious dinner recipes waiting for you. Here are some other favorites that are perfect for weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting without the culinary complexity:
- Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo
- Bourbon Pork Medallions with Mustard Sauce
- Creamy Pesto Shrimp Pasta
- Classic Boston Baked Cod
Each of these recipes offers a unique flavor profile and straightforward instructions, proving that incredible meals don’t have to be complicated. Enjoy exploring new culinary delights!
Beef Stroganoff Crepes
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Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- ½ cup chopped onion or substitute 1 Tbsp dried minced onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced or substitute ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ tsp fresh cracked pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 10-¾ oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
- ¾ cup reduced fat sour cream
- garnish: additional sour cream and snipped chives
- 12 Savory Crepes see Notes
Instructions
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Heat oven to 350°F.
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In a large, nonstick skillet, brown the beef, onion, garlic, and mushrooms, until the meat is no longer pink. Drain the juice.
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Add the salt, pepper, paprika, and soup. Simmer 5 minutes on low heat, stirring regularly. Remove from heat and add the sour cream.
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Spoon ~2 Tablespoons filling onto a crepe, roll up, and place in a 13×9 baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. Repeat using all of the filling and remaining crepes.
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Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and crepes are just slightly crispy at the edges. Serve with additional sour cream and chives.
Notes
Calorie calculation is approximate and includes the crepes. It does not include additional sour cream.