Beef stroganoff is a beloved comfort food, perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, especially when the weather turns cold. For those following a keto diet, traditional stroganoff with its flour-thickened sauce and egg noodles is typically off-limits. However, this keto ground beef stroganoff recipe recreates the rich and satisfying flavors of the classic dish while adhering to keto guidelines. By eliminating flour and swapping egg noodles for cauliflower rice or other low-carb alternatives, you can enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal without compromising your dietary goals.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a great way to have a comforting and easy meal that fits into your keto lifestyle. It uses ground beef, which is a budget-friendly alternative to traditional steak cuts, without sacrificing flavor. The creamy sauce, made with sour cream and cream cheese, is rich and satisfying, while the addition of mushrooms provides a delightful texture.
Key Ingredients
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is used for ease and affordability.
- Mushrooms: Baby bella mushrooms are recommended, but any preferred variety can be used.
- Beef Stock: Beef stock or bone broth adds depth of flavor.
- Cream Cheese & Sour Cream: These create a rich and creamy sauce.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Essential for the classic beef stroganoff flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy element to the sauce.
- Cauliflower Rice: A keto-friendly substitute for egg noodles.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Mushrooms: Add the remaining butter and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mushrooms are golden brown, about 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, then add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Add beef broth, cream cheese, sour cream, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and paprika to the skillet. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine and Simmer: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Serve the keto ground beef stroganoff over cauliflower rice or your preferred keto-friendly side. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Detailed Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 Tbsp. butter, divided
- 1 lb. 80% lean ground beef
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 1/2 lb. mushrooms, sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 cup low-sodium beef stock or bone broth
- 4 oz. cream cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp. Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp. paprika
- Finely chopped parsley, for garnish
- Steamed cauliflower rice, for serving
Instructions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook beef, stirring occasionally, until cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer meat to a plate.
- Return skillet to medium-high heat and add remaining butter and mushrooms. Cook, tossing occasionally, until mushrooms are golden, about 7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper and add garlic. Cook until fragrant, 1 minute. Add broth, cream cheese, sour cream, Worcestershire, Dijon, and paprika to skillet. Bring to a simmer, stirring.
- Return beef to skillet and stir to combine.
Serving Suggestions
- Cauliflower Rice: A classic keto-friendly side that complements the creamy sauce.
- Mashed Cauliflower: Another great option for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Creamed Spinach: A delicious and nutritious way to add more greens to your meal.
- Low-Carb Noodles: Palmini Noodles, made from hearts of palm, are a popular choice.
- Spaghetti Squash: A naturally low-carb alternative to traditional pasta.
Tips and Variations
- Meat Options: While ground beef is recommended for its convenience and cost-effectiveness, ground turkey, pork, or chicken can be substituted. Sliced beef, such as London broil, is another option.
- Mushroom Variety: Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, or a mix.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Dijon mustard and paprika to suit your taste preferences.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: Keto ground beef stroganoff can be frozen for up to 2 weeks. Be aware that the sauce may separate slightly upon reheating.
- Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free option, replace the sour cream with ¾ cup of coconut cream and 1 ½ teaspoons of apple cider vinegar.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional information is approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
The Ease of Keto Cooking
This recipe proves that following a keto diet doesn't mean sacrificing flavor or comfort. With a few simple substitutions, you can enjoy classic dishes like beef stroganoff while staying true to your health goals. This keto ground beef stroganoff is a hearty, delicious, and easy-to-make meal that's perfect for any night of the week.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Meatballs
For a fun twist on the classic, try making Keto Beef Stroganoff Meatballs. These meatballs feature tender ground beef, caramelized onions, and mushrooms in a creamy sour cream gravy. Serve them with cauliflower rice or low-carb noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
Health Benefits of Ingredients
- Ground Beef: Provides essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, iron, selenium, phosphorus, and vitamin B12.
- Onions: Nutrient-rich and a great addition to many recipes.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Cream of Mushroom Soup: Avoid using cream of mushroom soup, as it often contains unhealthy additives. Fresh ingredients will result in a much tastier and healthier stroganoff.
- Flour: Do not use flour to thicken the sauce, as it will add unnecessary carbs. Xanthan gum or arrowroot flour are great keto-friendly alternatives.
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto
tags: #keto #ground #beef #stroganoff #recipe