Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s both quick to make and loaded with classic flavors, you can’t go wrong with Ground Beef Stroganoff. This dish is a weeknight champion with its rich, creamy sauce, tender beef, and hearty mushrooms all piled high over soft egg noodles. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone rushing to the table, and it’s easy enough that you’ll want to make it again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Ground Beef Stroganoff truly special is how it transforms everyday ingredients into something so mouthwatering. Each component brings its own little magic—whether it’s creamy richness, savory depth, or irresistible texture.

• Ground Beef: The star ingredient! Choose lean ground beef for the best balance of flavor and minimal grease.
• Olive Oil: If your beef is very lean, a splash of olive oil helps onions and mushrooms sauté beautifully.
• Onion: Diced onion lends subtle sweetness and great aroma to the sauce.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic boosts the savory base and makes everything taste just that much cozier.
• Mushrooms: Earthy mushrooms add umami and a satisfying bite. Use cremini, white, or even a mix!
• All-Purpose Flour: Just a touch helps thicken the sauce into luscious perfection.
• Beef Broth: Brings the sauce together and deepens the savory flavor—use low-sodium if you’re watching salt.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds tang and complexity; don’t skip it!
• Dijon Mustard: This little spoonful brightens up the whole dish with just enough zip.
• Salt: Seasons the whole pan, making every bite pop.
• Black Pepper: Adds warmth and a little peppery kick.
• Sour Cream: Essential for that signature creamy stroganoff sauce—you can sub with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Egg Noodles: The classic base—soft, twirly, and perfect for soaking up sauce.
• Chopped Parsley (optional): A pop of green for color and freshness.

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook it, breaking it up as you go, until it’s fully browned—usually about 5 to 7 minutes. This step gives you all those savory, caramelized bits that make Ground Beef Stroganoff shine. If there’s extra fat, drain it off and set the beef aside for now.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

If your skillet looks a little dry, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and let it sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until it turns soft and fragrant. Add the garlic and mushrooms, then cook everything together for another 5 minutes. The mushrooms should turn golden and beautifully aromatic.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour evenly over your vegetables, stirring well to coat everything. This small but crucial moment ensures your sauce will thicken nicely with no lumps. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly, then add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Let it all come to a friendly simmer for 3 to 5 minutes as the sauce thickens slightly and all those vibrant flavors meld together.

Step 4: Add Creamy Goodness and Beef

Lower the heat and stir the sour cream into the skillet. Watch as the sauce turns irresistibly creamy and smooth—this is the soul of Ground Beef Stroganoff! Add your browned beef back to the pan, then let everything mingle for another 2 to 3 minutes so it’s heated through and deeply flavorful.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

While your sauce is bubbling away, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions and drain. To serve, pile those noodles into bowls, spoon your stroganoff mix all over, and top with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley if you like. Now dig in and enjoy!

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

Garnishes

It’s amazing how a sprinkle of chopped parsley can transform the look of your Ground Beef Stroganoff, giving it a fresh edge and vibrant color. For a little extra flair, try a dash of smoked paprika, a grind of black pepper, or even a swirl of extra sour cream on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, steamed green beans, or toasted garlic bread. That way, you’ve got something bright and crunchy to balance out the creamy noodles and saucy beef.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, serve Ground Beef Stroganoff in individual ramekins, top them with pastry for a pot-pie twist, or even spoon the creamy sauce over baked potatoes for a comforting change. Sometimes, a little creativity in plating makes even a weeknight dinner feel special!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff holds up brilliantly. Transfer any extras to an airtight container and refrigerate; it will stay delicious for up to three days. Just keep the noodles and sauce separate if possible, so the noodles don’t get too soggy.

Freezing

If you want to make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead or save some for a rainy day, the sauce freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Skip freezing the noodles, as they’re best made fresh.

Reheating

For the best result, reheat the sauce slowly on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to keep it creamy. If it seems a bit thick, splash in an extra spoonful of beef broth. Warm the noodles separately in hot water or microwave, then combine when ready to serve.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute. The sauce is flavorful enough to complement a wide range of proteins.

Is there a way to make Ground Beef Stroganoff gluten-free?

Yes, you can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch (just use half as much), and serve the sauce over your favorite gluten-free noodles.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute and gives a tangy flavor with a little extra protein. Creme fraiche or even a splash of heavy cream can work in a pinch as well.

How can I make this dish a bit healthier?

Try using extra-lean ground beef (or ground turkey), swap the sour cream for nonfat Greek yogurt, and load up on extra mushrooms. Serve over whole wheat noodles or zucchini ribbons for a lighter touch.

Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce up to two days ahead and refrigerate it. The flavors only get better as they meld, so it’s a great meal prep option. Just cook the noodles fresh for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to try this Ground Beef Stroganoff in your own kitchen. It’s fast, familiar, and endlessly comforting—the kind of dish that quickly finds its way into regular rotation. Give it a try, and make dinner something everyone looks forward to!

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