Healthier One-Pot Beef Stroganoff in 25 Minutes

A healthier take on this comfort food staple.

Photo bySkinny Ms.

If you’ve been looking for a meal that combines the feel of a restaurant dish and the comfort of homemade cooking, you’re in the right place. Today, we’re going to dive into a classic recipe that’s both incredibly delicious and pretty darn nutritious when made with the right ingredients—one pot beef stroganoff. And the best part? You can whip it up in just 25 minutes! So let’s get cooking!

What is Beef Stroganoff?

Originating in Russia, beef stroganoff has been a comfort food staple in households worldwide for decades. The traditional recipe is a blend of sautéed beef strips, mushrooms, and onions in a rich, creamy sauce often spiked with a splash of brandy or wine. The dish is typically served over egg noodles, rice, or potatoes.

While beef stroganoff is a delicious meal, it’s often loaded with heavy cream and butter, making it less than ideal for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. But don’t fret! We’ve revamped this beloved recipe to make it as nourishing as it is delectable.

Photo bySkinny Ms.

Our 25 Minute, One-Pot Stroganoff

Who says you have to compromise taste for health? This version of beef stroganoff uses lean ground beef and substitutes heavy cream with a lighter alternative, Greek yogurt, to cut down on the saturated fat without sacrificing flavor. Mushrooms bring in an earthy undertone while whole wheat noodles (or cauliflower rice) serve as the perfect base. And the cherry on top? It’s a one-pot recipe! That means fewer dishes to wash and more time to savor your culinary creation.

Here’s why this 25-minute, one-pot version of beef stroganoff stands out:

• Quick and Easy: Life’s busy, we get it! This recipe allows you to have a hearty and satisfying meal on the table in under half an hour.
• Nutrition-Focused: By using lean ground beef and Greek yogurt, we make this recipe more aligned with nutritional goals without compromising taste.
• Kid-Friendly: This recipe is a win-win for the whole family. It’s tasty enough for the kids and nutritious enough to make parents happy.
• Great For Meal Prep: If you’re looking for a unique meal prep recipe, try this one! It’s easily prepped and can be stored for meals all week long.

What You’ll Need for this Ground Beef Stroganoff

For this revamped one pot ground beef stroganoff recipe, you’ll start off with one pound of lean ground beef. You’ll also need one yellow onion and three garlic cloves, both finely chopped, to add depth and aroma. For flavor, gather a tablespoon of tomato paste, two teaspoons of smoked paprika, a teaspoon each of dried thyme and black pepper, and a half teaspoon of sea salt.

To create a mouthwatering sauce that clings to every noodle, you’ll incorporate two cups of low-sodium beef broth. Speaking of noodles, make sure you have eight ounces of cooked egg noodles at the ready. The creamy element comes in with a cup of low-fat sour cream, and don’t forget two tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley to garnish your dish before serving. This combination of ingredients ensures a satisfyingly rich yet nutritionally balanced dish, perfect for a quick and comforting dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 yellow onion chopped
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 cups beef broth low sodium
• 8 ounces egg noodles cooked
• 1 cup sour cream low fat
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
• Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
• Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
• Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and stir to combine with the beef mixture. Simmer for another 5-10 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the noodles have absorbed some of the liquid.
• Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined.
• Garnish with fresh parsley, serve hot, and enjoy!

Photo bySkinny Ms.

Tips and Tricks

Achieving the perfect one-pot ground beef stroganoff doesn’t have to be a challenge. Here are some tips and tricks to make your cooking experience both enjoyable and rewarding:

Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef that is at least 90% lean. This will give you the beefy flavor you desire without the extra saturated fats.

Fresh vs. Dried Herbs: The recipe calls for dried thyme, but if you have fresh thyme on hand, feel free to use it. The general rule is to use three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried.

Pasta Perfection: Cook your egg noodles to just a minute or two under the package’s recommended cooking time. They will continue cooking in the sauce, so this will help prevent them from becoming too mushy.

Low-Fat Sour Cream: Using low-fat sour cream is a great way to maintain the creamy texture of the dish while reducing calorie content. However, if you want to go all out, full-fat sour cream works just as well for a more indulgent meal. On the other hand, you can try using plain Greek yogurt instead for less fat and more protein!

Salt Level: The recipe uses low-sodium beef broth and half a teaspoon of sea salt. Taste your stroganoff before serving and adjust the salt according to your preference.

Smoked Paprika: Don’t skip the smoked paprika! It adds a subtle depth and smokiness to the dish that really enhances the flavors.

Garnish Galore: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. However, feel free to get creative with your garnish. A sprinkle of grated parmesan or a dollop of additional sour cream can add another layer of taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute the lean ground beef with another protein?

Absolutely, you can easily swap out the lean ground beef for other protein options to suit your dietary preferences or needs. Ground turkey or chicken are fantastic lean alternatives. If you’re looking for a plant-based option, tofu crumbles or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat can work well. Just remember that different proteins may alter the cooking time and flavor profile of the dish.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If you’re looking to avoid dairy or simply don’t have sour cream on hand, there are plenty of alternatives. Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute that maintains the dish’s creamy texture while adding a protein boost. For a dairy-free option, consider coconut milk or a non-dairy yogurt made from almonds or cashews. These will change the flavor a bit but can be just as delicious.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

For a gluten-free version, switch out the egg noodles for a gluten-free alternative like rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. You can also use a gluten-free thickening agent like cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour for the sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit a vegetarian or vegan diet. To make it vegetarian, you could use a plant-based ground meat substitute readily available in the supermarket. If you’re going vegan, consider using tofu crumbles or tempeh as your protein source. You would also need to replace the sour cream with a vegan alternative, such as coconut cream or vegan sour cream. Don’t forget to check the label on your beef broth substitute (vegetable broth works great) to ensure it meets your dietary requirements.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze leftover beef stroganoff, although the texture might change a bit upon reheating, especially if you used sour cream or a dairy alternative. To freeze, let the dish cool down to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, defrost it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. If the sauce appears separated, a quick stir usually brings it back to life.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Certainly! One-pot ground beef stroganoff is an excellent meal prep option. You can make the beef mixture a day or two ahead and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the beef mixture, stir in the pre-cooked noodles and sour cream, and you’re good to go. Keep the garnish separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain its freshness.

I don’t have smoked paprika. Can I use regular paprika?

Smoked paprika provides a unique flavor profile, adding a touch of smokiness to the dish. However, if you don’t have it (or don’t like it), regular paprika will still give you that quintessential paprika flavor, albeit without the smoky undertones. If you opt for regular paprika and want to add some smokiness, you can include a drop of liquid smoke or a pinch of chipotle powder.

What should I serve with one pot beef stroganoff?

While this dish is hearty enough to be a stand-alone meal, you can pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a more balanced plate. Crusty bread or garlic rolls can also accompany the stroganoff to soak up any remaining sauce.

More Savory Satisfying One-Pot Recipes

If you find yourself in love with the ease and convenience of one-pot cooking, there’s a whole world of recipes out there waiting for you to explore. Here are some other nutritionally-balanced, one-pot wonders that you might want to try:

• One-Pot Rosemary Chicken Dinner (pictured above): Incorporate sweet potato, chicken breast, and a medley of vegetables for a wholesome meal.
• Protein-packed Black Bean and Lentil Soup: Packed with legumes, vegetables, and spices, this is a protein-rich meatless option that’s sure to delight.
• Chicken Paella: If you’re a fan of Spanish food, a one-pot paella with whole-grain rice, peas, and spices might be your next go-to recipe.