Ground Beef Mushroom Recipe
Introduction
The “ground beef mushroom recipe” is a culinary staple found in various forms worldwide. Its popularity stems from its rich, savory flavor profile, affordability, and versatility. This combination of ground beef and earthy mushrooms offers a hearty and satisfying meal, easily adapted to diverse culinary traditions and individual preferences. From stroganoffs to comforting casseroles, the ground beef mushroom combination delivers a robust flavor enjoyed by many.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (80/20 or 90/10 lean) 1 pound mushrooms (cremini, button, or portobello), sliced 1 medium onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil 1/2 cup beef broth 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste) 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste) Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream (for added richness) Optional: 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to thicken sauce, if needed) Substitutions: Ground turkey or chicken can replace ground beef. Shiitake or oyster mushrooms offer unique flavor variations.
Preparation Steps
Begin by preparing the ingredients. Thoroughly clean the mushrooms using a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Avoid soaking them in water, as they tend to absorb it. Slice the mushrooms to your desired thickness. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Ensure the ground beef is thawed completely. For enhanced flavor, consider browning the ground beef in a skillet before proceeding to the next steps, which creates flavorful browned bits.
Cooking Instructions
1. Heat olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. 2. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. 3. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. 4. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. 5. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until softened and browned, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. 6. Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer. 7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. 8. If desired, stir in heavy cream or sour cream for added richness. 9. If the sauce is too thin, whisk 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce and cook until thickened, about 1-2 minutes. 10. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cooking times may vary based on stove and cookware. The key is to ensure the ground beef is fully cooked, the mushrooms are softened, and the sauce has thickened to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
“Ground beef mushroom recipe” is incredibly versatile. Serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, pasta (egg noodles are a classic choice), or polenta. It can also be used as a filling for shepherd’s pie or stuffed bell peppers. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Crusty bread is also great for soaking up the delicious sauce.
Tips and Common Mistakes
Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the ground beef; cook it in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. Avoid overcooking the mushrooms, as they can become rubbery. Cook them until they are softened and browned, but still retain some texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process to ensure the flavors are balanced. If using dried mushrooms, rehydrate them in hot water before adding them to the dish. Be careful not to add too much salt, as Worcestershire sauce is already salty. If the sauce is too acidic, add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. * Common mistakes includes not browning the ground beef well enough which reduces the flavor. Another mistake is adding the mushrooms too early, so they don’t have a chance to brown well.
Explore More Cooking Guides
Learning a “ground beef mushroom recipe” offers a gateway to creating satisfying and flavorful meals that are both economical and adaptable. Its savory depth and comfort-food appeal make it a reliable choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. By mastering this recipe, one gains a foundation for experimenting with different ingredients and flavor combinations, catering to personal tastes and dietary preferences. Ready to impress with culinary skills? Try this recipe at home, and explore a world of exciting cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com.
