Budget Beef Stroganoff

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A budget-friendly and hearty beef stroganoff featuring tender ground beef, onions, and noodles in a creamy tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners.

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Ingredients

  • 1/3 cup oil
  • 1/2 pound ground meat
  • 2 cups chopped onion
  • 6 ounces uncooked noodles
  • 3 cups tomato juice
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground meat and chopped onions in hot oil.
  2. Place uncooked noodles on top of the cooked meat and onions.
  3. Mix the tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and water; pour over the noodles without stirring.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the noodles are tender.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground beef and pork. If you're short on time, substitute uncooked noodles with pre-cooked ones to reduce the simmering time. You can also add mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition. For a creamier sauce, stir in more sour cream at the end of cooking. This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple green salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the beef stroganoff over a bed of rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It also pairs well with a side of green beans or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, top with freshly chopped parsley or serve with a dollop of additional sour cream.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave individual portions; cover with a microwave-safe lid to retain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Budget Beef Stroganoff contains roughly 606 calories, with 8g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1808mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).

606 kcal 30% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.6g 15% DV
Total Fat 30.9g 40% DV
Carbs 77.1g 28% DV
Fiber 5.5g 20% DV
Sugar 8.9g 18% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1807.5mg 79% DV
Potassium 489.8mg 10% DV
Cholesterol 3.4mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 42.1mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 70.6mg 78% DV
Calcium 114.7mg 9% DV
Iron 3mg 17% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this stroganoff?

Yes, you can use chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, consider using plant-based ground meat or sautéed mushrooms as a substitute. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.

What can I do if I don't have tomato juice?

If you lack tomato juice, you can blend canned tomatoes with a bit of water to create a similar consistency. Alternatively, using beef broth can work, but it will change the flavor profile slightly. Adjust the seasonings if necessary to balance the taste.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, beef stroganoff can be frozen for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave until warmed through, adding a little liquid if it appears dry.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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