If you’ve been craving a comforting, rich dinner that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Easy Meatball Stroganoff Recipe. Combining tender, flavorful meatballs with a creamy, savory sauce and tender egg noodles, this dish brings all the best parts of classic stroganoff to your table in a simple, fuss-free way. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers hearty satisfaction with every bite and proves that comfort food can be both effortless and absolutely delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Meatball Stroganoff Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a critical role, from building flavor layers to adding creamy texture and a lovely color contrast. These pantry staples and ready-to-go meatballs make the recipe a perfect quick weeknight meal without sacrificing any of the hearty goodness.
- 1 1/2 lbs precooked meatballs: Using frozen or thawed meatballs saves time and ensures perfectly tender bites every time.
- 1/2 tsp salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the best in every ingredient.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Adds an herbaceous depth that complements the beefy flavor beautifully.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Offers savory warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Gives a subtle sweetness that rounds out the sauce.
- 3 tbsp butter: Creates a rich base for the roux and infuses a silky texture.
- 3 tbsp flour: Thickens the sauce into that luscious, creamy consistency we all love.
- 2 cups beef broth: Brings savory flavor and the liquid needed for the sauce foundation.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: A little umami magic that deepens the overall flavor.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tang that brightens and balances the richness.
- 1 cup sour cream: The star of the sauce’s creaminess, giving a velvety finish with a slight tang.
- 10-12 oz medium egg noodles: Tender noodles that soak up every drop of the savory sauce.
- Fresh or dried parsley: For a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note on top.
How to Make Easy Meatball Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Egg Noodles
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil for the egg noodles. Cooking the noodles according to package instructions ensures they’re perfectly tender and ready to soak up the creamy stroganoff sauce. Once they’re done, drain and set them aside while you prepare the sauce and meatballs.
Step 2: Make the Roux
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously. Cooking this mixture for at least one full minute is key to developing that rich base while avoiding any raw flour taste. This simple roux will thicken your sauce to a creamy perfection.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to keep the sauce smooth. Now is when you add the salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder—these spices build a beautiful, layered flavor profile. Allow this mixture to simmer until it thickens, then stir in the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, giving the sauce that signature tang and depth of flavor you crave in stroganoff.
Step 4: Add the Meatballs
Then, nestle your precooked meatballs into the sauce and cover the skillet. Lower the heat slightly to let the meatballs heat through gently, soaking up that flavorful sauce without drying out. This step makes the dish incredibly easy while keeping the meatballs juicy and tender.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Once the meatballs are heated through, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the sour cream. This last addition transforms the sauce into a silky, tangy masterpiece. Toss the cooked egg noodles in with the meatball sauce, coat everything evenly, then sprinkle with fresh or dried parsley for a lovely, fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy every comforting bite!
How to Serve Easy Meatball Stroganoff Recipe
Garnishes
A little parsley sprinkled on top brightens the rich sauce and adds a splash of green that makes the dish look even more inviting. You can also add a little extra sour cream dolloped on for creaminess and elegance. For a bit of crunch, some toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions make excellent toppings.
Side Dishes
This dish really shines on its own, but if you want to complete the meal, pair it with a simple mixed green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Steamed or roasted vegetables like green beans, carrots, or asparagus add color and nutrition without stealing the spotlight from your delicious stroganoff.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Easy Meatball Stroganoff Recipe in small cast iron skillets or individual ramekins for dinner parties. You can also pile the stroganoff on top of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta as an alternative base. If you’re feeling adventurous, stuff the meatballs and stroganoff into puff pastry cups for a handheld starter that will wow your guests!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Easy Meatball Stroganoff Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the food completely before storing to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish as well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results. The creamy sauce holds up well, making this a perfect meal prep or busy day dinner option.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave leftovers in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm and creamy again. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs instead of precooked ones?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs work perfectly and are a tasty way to customize the dish. Just cook them fully before adding them to the stroganoff sauce, or bake them ahead of time for convenience.
Is sour cream necessary for the sauce?
Sour cream is traditional and gives the sauce its signature tang and creaminess. You could substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, but add it off the heat to avoid curdling.
What if I don’t have beef broth on hand?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute, though beef broth lends the richest flavor. If you have bouillon cubes, dissolving one in hot water works well too.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce and make sure your meatballs and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. Gluten-free egg noodles or alternatives like rice noodles will work for the base.
How long does it take to prepare this dish?
The total time is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking. It’s perfect for quick dinners without compromising on hearty flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Meatball Stroganoff Recipe is a go-to for anyone craving comfort food that’s quick, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s one of those dishes that feels special but comes together effortlessly. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a favorite in your rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Easy Meatball Stroganoff Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Easy Meatball Stroganoff is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender precooked meatballs simmered in a creamy, flavorful sauce made with beef broth, sour cream, and classic seasonings, served over perfectly cooked egg noodles. With simple prep and quick cooking, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
Meatballs and Seasoning
- 1 1/2 lbs precooked meatballs (frozen or thawed)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 cup sour cream
Pasta and Garnish
- 10–12 oz medium egg noodles
- Fresh or dried parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the egg noodles: Heat a large pot of water on the stove and cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the roux: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour. Stir constantly and cook the mixture for at least one minute to eliminate raw flour taste.
- Prepare the sauce: Gradually add 2 cups of beef broth to the roux while stirring to avoid lumps. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens. Then stir in 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard and 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor.
- Heat the meatballs: Add the frozen or thawed precooked meatballs to the skillet with the sauce. Cover with a lid and reduce the heat slightly. Let the meatballs warm through thoroughly, about 8-10 minutes.
- Finish the stroganoff: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1 cup of sour cream until smooth and fully incorporated. Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet and toss gently to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh or dried parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy, easy meatball stroganoff.
Notes
- You can use frozen meatballs straight from the freezer; just increase heating time to ensure they are hot throughout.
- For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
- Adding mushrooms to the sauce can enhance the classic stroganoff flavor.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet on low heat.
