Ground Beef Stroganoff

Name: Ground Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz egg noodles; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I’ve always loved the comforting embrace of a rich, creamy stroganoff, and this Ground Beef Stroganoff has become a family favorite. With its tender beef and a luscious sauce that clings to the noodles, it’s a dish that warms the soul. I especially enjoy how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for busy weeknights yet special enough for weekend dinners. This recipe is a keeper, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:43:34.402Z

When I first made Ground Beef Stroganoff, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to create a dish that felt so indulgent. I’ve tweaked a classic recipe over the years, and the addition of sour cream at the end truly elevates the dish, adding a delightful creaminess. I recommend serving it over wide egg noodles, as they hold the sauce beautifully, making each bite flavorful.

One tip I’ve found invaluable is to sauté the mushrooms until they are nicely browned before adding them to the beef. This simple step enhances their flavor significantly, really contributing to that hearty, umami taste we all crave in a good stroganoff. Don't rush this – let them develop that incredible depth!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy sauce that envelops the beef perfectly
Quick preparation time for a weeknight dinner
Rich, savory flavors that delight the taste buds

      

The Importance of Sautéing

Sautéing the beef, onions, and mushrooms is crucial for developing rich flavors in your Ground Beef Stroganoff. When you brown the ground beef, aim for a deep golden color; this caramelization adds depth to the dish. Likewise, as the onions become translucent and the mushrooms brown, they release their natural sweetness, which balances the savory notes of the beef. Keep the heat at medium to ensure even cooking without burning.

Don’t rush the sautéing process; let the onions and mushrooms take their time to soften. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If they start sticking to the skillet, a splash of beef broth can help deglaze the pan and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Mastering the Sauce

The creamy sauce is the heart of a great Stroganoff, and achieving the right consistency is key. After adding the flour, make sure to stir it in thoroughly to eliminate any lumps. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. This step is where the dish can go wrong; if you add the broth too quickly, you could end up with a grainy sauce. Aim for a glossy texture that clings to the back of a spoon.

Once the sauce is ready, lowering the heat before mixing in the sour cream helps prevent curdling. Stir in the sour cream off the heat for a creamy finish that adds a luxurious touch. You can also experiment with a Greek yogurt substitute for a lighter option without sacrificing creaminess.

Serving Suggestions

While egg noodles are traditional, Ground Beef Stroganoff can be served over a variety of bases. Try serving it on a bed of rice or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb alternative. A side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad can offset the richness of the dish and add some freshness to your meal, enhancing the overall dining experience.

To elevate the dish further, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, and maybe even a few shavings of Parmesan cheese. This not only adds a burst of color but also a layer of flavor that complements the rich sauce beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz egg noodles
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking to ensure a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Ground Beef Stroganoff:

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef and cook until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add onions and mushrooms. Cook until onions are translucent and mushrooms are browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Gradually add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring until thickened.

Finish with Sour Cream

Reduce heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, mixing everything well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade Ground Beef Stroganoff!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine when sautéing the mushrooms. It brings a delightful depth that enhances the overall dish.

Storage and Reheating

Ground Beef Stroganoff stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the stroganoff in a skillet over medium-low heat. Adding a splash of beef broth or water helps to loosen the sauce, restoring its creamy consistency as it warms. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.

For longer storage, you can freeze the stroganoff for up to three months. It's advisable to exclude the sour cream before freezing; instead, stir it in after reheating for the best taste and texture.

Ingredient Variations

If you’re looking to customize the flavor profile, consider adding a splash of white wine to the broth for a sophisticated touch. This could elevate the dish and add a layer of complexity that complements the beef beautifully.

For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This variation can retain the hearty feel of Stroganoff while catering to different dietary preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with Stroganoff is a thin sauce. If you find that your sauce isn’t thickening properly, consider making a slurry with a bit of flour and cold water, then whisking it into the simmering sauce to thicken it. Make sure to let it simmer for an extra few minutes to allow the raw flour taste to cook out.

Another potential pitfall is overcooking the noodles, which can lead to a mushy texture. To combat this, make sure to cook the noodles al dente, as they will continue to soften when mixed with the hot stroganoff sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Chicken or turkey can be used as alternatives, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the stroganoff in advance. Reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if necessary.

→ Is there a vegetarian version?

Certainly! Swap the ground beef for lentils or chopped mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

→ What can I serve with Stroganoff?

It pairs well with side salads, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.