Beef and Mushroom Skillet

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms (cremini, button, or a mix)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup heavy cream or sour cream for finishing
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Serving suggestions: Egg noodles, rice, mashed potatoes, crusty bread

Step-by-Step

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.

3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Cook for another minute until fragrant.

5. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they are softened and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes.

6. In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and flour until smooth.

7. Pour the beef broth mixture into the skillet with the beef and mushrooms.

8. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened, about 3-5 minutes.

9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

10. If desired, stir in heavy cream or sour cream for a richer sauce.

11. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

12. Serve hot over egg noodles, rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread. Enjoy!

Variations and Additions

Beef and mushroom skillet is a versatile dish. Feel free to adapt it to your taste. Many additions and variations exist.

Adding Vegetables

Beyond onions and mushrooms, many vegetables complement the flavors of beef. Consider adding diced bell peppers for a touch of sweetness.

Chopped carrots add a subtle sweetness and texture. Frozen peas stirred in at the end provide a pop of color and freshness. Spinach wilts quickly and adds nutrients.

Spice It Up

Adjust the level of heat according to preference. A pinch of red pepper flakes will introduce subtle heat. A dash of cayenne pepper provides a more potent kick.

Alternatively, incorporate a finely chopped jalapeño pepper. Smoked paprika can offer a deeper, smoky flavor. Experiment with different chili powders.

Cheese Please!

Cheese elevates this skillet meal. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese during the last minute of cooking for a gooey, cheesy delight.

Grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory, nutty flavor. A dollop of cream cheese contributes richness and creaminess. Blue cheese crumbles provide a pungent, tangy contrast.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This hearty skillet dish is satisfying on its own. However, side dishes can enhance the meal. Thoughtful pairings can elevate the overall experience.

Classic Sides

Egg noodles are a classic pairing. Their mild flavor complements the rich sauce. Fluffy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base.

White or brown rice soaks up the savory flavors. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce. These options provide simple ways to enjoy the dish.

Vegetable Accompaniments

Steamed green beans provide a fresh, crisp contrast. Roasted asparagus offers a slightly bitter and earthy complement.

A simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides balance. Sautéed spinach adds a healthy boost. Roasted broccoli also works great.

Wine Pairings

Pair with red wine. Pinot Noir offers a light-bodied option. Merlot provides a smooth, fruity complement.

Cabernet Sauvignon, a full-bodied choice, pairs with richer versions. The wine’s tannins cut through the dish’s richness. Consider the intensity of the meal when choosing a wine.

Tips for the Perfect Skillet

Achieving a perfect beef and mushroom skillet requires some careful techniques. These tips will help you create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Mastering them ensures delicious results.

Browning the Beef

Proper browning is crucial. It develops deep, savory flavors. Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.

High heat and minimal stirring allows for browning. Resist the urge to stir constantly. Let the beef sear on one side before flipping.

Sautéing the Mushrooms

Cook the mushrooms until they release their moisture and then brown. This intensifies their flavor. Avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Too many mushrooms at once will steam rather than brown. Use a dry skillet initially. Add a touch of olive oil later to help with browning.

Thickening the Sauce

The flour helps thicken the sauce. Ensure the flour is evenly distributed to prevent lumps. A slurry of flour and cold broth works best.

Simmer the sauce until it reaches the desired consistency. Avoid boiling too vigorously, as this can lead to scorching. Stir often while simmering.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Beef and mushroom skillet is excellent for making ahead. It allows flavors to meld together over time. Proper storage ensures optimal quality and safety.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Prepare the skillet dish as directed. Cool completely before storing. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to rehydrate. Avoid overheating to prevent the sauce from breaking.

Freezing Instructions

Allow the cooked skillet to cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Be aware that the texture of the mushrooms might change slightly after freezing.

Storage Tips

Always cool food completely before refrigerating or freezing. This prevents condensation and bacterial growth. Use airtight containers to prevent freezer burn.

Label containers with the date to keep track of storage time. When reheating, ensure the food reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any bacteria.

FAQ

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about beef and mushroom skillet. Addressing these concerns helps ensure success in the kitchen. Many factors impact the final outcome.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken can be substituted for ground beef. Adjust seasoning accordingly. Consider using Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

You can also use diced steak. Brown the steak thoroughly before adding the other ingredients. Cooking times may vary depending on the cut of meat.

Can I use dried mushrooms?

Yes, dried mushrooms can be used. Rehydrate them in warm water before adding them to the skillet. Reserve the mushroom soaking liquid and add it to the sauce for extra flavor.

Be sure to drain the rehydrated mushrooms thoroughly. Chop them before adding them to the skillet. Different varieties offer distinctive flavors.

How can I thicken the sauce without flour?

Cornstarch is a good alternative to flour. Mix it with cold water to create a slurry before adding it to the skillet. Arrowroot powder works similarly.

Simmering the sauce for a longer period can also help thicken it. A small amount of tomato paste can also add thickness and flavor. Reducing liquid volume helps.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Stir occasionally during the last hour of cooking. Thicken the sauce with a cornstarch slurry if needed. A slow cooker meal requires less hands-on attention.

What can I add for extra flavor?

A splash of red wine during cooking adds depth. A bay leaf infused during simmering enhances the savory notes. A dash of soy sauce contributes umami.

A pinch of sugar balances acidity. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the flavors. Small additions can make a big difference.