Poor Man's Beef—so creamy, you’d never know it’s a pantry saver!

This is my go-to recipe for Poor Man’s Beef Stroganoff, a comforting dish that's perfect for a cozy family dinner. I whip this up on a chilly night when I want something hearty but don't have the time or budget for the classic version. It's a dish filled with memories of my childhood when my mom would make it for us after a long day. What I love most about this recipe is how approachable it is—you can elevate everyday ingredients into something truly special. It's a quick, delicious answer to the age-old question, 'What's for dinner?'

This stroganoff pairs wonderfully with a side of buttered egg noodles or fluffy rice. You could also serve it over mashed potatoes if you're in the mood for something extra hearty. A simple green salad or steamed broccoli makes a fantastic side to add a fresh contrast to the creamy beef. Don't forget some bread or rolls to mop up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Servings: 4

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through.

4. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they are soft.

5. Sprinkle the flour over the meat and vegetables, and stir to coat everything evenly.

6. Slowly add the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce begins to thicken.

7. Add the Worcestershire sauce, then reduce the heat to low.

8. Stir in the sour cream, ensuring it's well incorporated into the sauce. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

10. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot!

For a touch of sweetness, add a tablespoon of ketchup or a dash of paprika for a hint of spice. You can replace the ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option. If you have picky eaters, try dicing the mushrooms finely so they go unnoticed while still adding flavor. For a vegetarian version, swap the beef with lentils or a meat substitute and use veggie stock instead of beef broth.