If you’re after a comforting dinner that’s both approachable and downright irresistible, Ground Beef Stroganoff is about to become your weeknight hero. This classic dish transforms pantry staples and fresh ingredients into a creamy, savory meal that feels like an indulgence — without hours in the kitchen. With tender mushrooms, browned beef, and luxuriously silky sauce all tangled with egg noodles, it’s a plateful of warmth and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or looking for an easy yet impressive meal, Ground Beef Stroganoff has you covered.

Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Ground Beef Stroganoff is in its simplicity — each ingredient plays a starring role, adding depth, texture, or a pop of flavor. Assemble these kitchen essentials for a dish that punches above its weight in taste.

Lean ground beef: Opt for lean to keep things hearty without excess grease; it’s the protein backbone of the dish.
Cremini mushrooms: Their earthy flavor and meaty texture elevate the sauce, making every spoonful satisfying.
Yellow onion: Diced for sweetness and depth, onions lay a flavorful foundation.
Garlic: Just three cloves bring bold aromatic notes, essential for classic Stroganoff authenticity.
Low-sodium beef broth: Adds big beefy flavor and lets you control the saltiness of the sauce.
Full-fat sour cream: The secret to that pleasantly tangy, rich Stroganoff sauce — don’t be shy!
Worcestershire sauce: Just a splash delivers umami complexity that sets the dish apart.
Egg noodles: Wide, curly, and perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce; substitute with your favorite pasta if needed.
All-purpose flour: This thickens the sauce, creating that luscious, clinging texture you crave.
Salt and pepper: Essentials for balancing flavors — season to taste for best results.
Olive oil: Used to sauté and bring out the best in your aromatics.

How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start off by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onions and minced garlic, letting them gently sizzle until the onions turn translucent and everything smells mouthwatering. This step is your flavor base — be patient so the onions release their sweetness.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Crank the heat up to medium-high and toss in the ground beef. Break it apart with your spatula, getting every bit evenly browned. If there’s excess fat, drain some off, but make sure to keep the flavorful browned bits—they’ll add so much depth to your sauce! The beef should be fully cooked and crumbly.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms and Season

Stir in your sliced cremini mushrooms, followed by salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. The mushrooms will soften and release their juices, soaking up all those savory flavors. This is when your kitchen starts to smell irresistible!

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour directly over the beef and mushrooms, then stir it in thoroughly so there are no dry spots. Gradually pour in the beef broth as you stir; the mixture will come together into a smooth, glossy sauce as it bubbles gently. Watch as it thickens to that perfect gravy-like consistency.

Step 5: Add the Creamy Element

Turn the heat down to low and gently fold in the full-fat sour cream. This transforms the sauce, making it creamy and just a little tangy. Let it all simmer for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is thickened and luscious.

Step 6: Toss with Noodles and Serve

Cook your egg noodles according to the package instructions, then either toss them directly into the sauce for a tangle of comfort food, or ladle the Ground Beef Stroganoff over a bed of noodles on individual plates. A sprinkle of fresh parsley is the perfect finishing touch if you have it!

How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff

Garnishes

Garnishing Ground Beef Stroganoff is pure joy. A handful of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of green and freshness against the creamy sauce. A dusting of black pepper or even a hint of grated Parmesan can give your Stroganoff an extra flavor punch. If you’re feeling decadent, a dollop of extra sour cream is never out of place!

Side Dishes

Though Ground Beef Stroganoff is complete on its own, pairing it with the right sides takes dinner to another level. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while steamed green beans or roasted broccoli echo the hearty feel of the main dish. A slice of crusty bread always helps mop up any lingering sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Classic doesn’t have to mean predictable! Spoon Ground Beef Stroganoff into individual ramekins and top with a sprinkle of grated cheese for a pub-style twist, or serve atop creamy mashed potatoes for an extra-cozy spin. Leftover sauce is amazing spooned onto baked potatoes or as a topping for a savory Dutch baby pancake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it a fabulous next-day lunch or dinner. Store the noodles and sauce separately if you want to avoid the noodles soaking up too much sauce.

Freezing

For longer storage, transfer cooled Ground Beef Stroganoff (without the noodles) to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It’ll keep well for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. For the best texture, cook fresh noodles when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring often. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. In the microwave, use short bursts and stir frequently so the creamy sauce stays silky and doesn’t split.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe for a lighter spin. Just be sure to season generously and add a splash of extra Worcestershire sauce to boost the savory flavor, since poultry is milder than beef.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you’re out of sour cream, full-fat Greek yogurt is a great alternative; it adds creaminess and tang while keeping things a bit lighter. Cream cheese or crème fraîche will also work, though each one will change the sauce’s character slightly.

Is Ground Beef Stroganoff gluten-free?

The classic version isn’t because of the flour and egg noodles, but you can easily swap in a gluten-free flour blend and serve over gluten-free pasta, rice, or potatoes for a celiac-friendly meal.

How can I add more veggies?

Feel free to toss in chopped spinach, shredded carrots, or frozen peas along with the mushrooms. These blend seamlessly into the sauce, bumping up the nutrition and color without overpowering the dish.

Can Ground Beef Stroganoff be made in advance?

Yes! The flavors get even better after a night in the fridge. Prepare the sauce ahead of time, then simply reheat gently and add freshly cooked noodles right before serving for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason Ground Beef Stroganoff remains a dinnertime favorite: it’s satisfying, simple, and endlessly comforting. If you haven’t made it lately, let this recipe be your reminder to bring a true classic back to the table. Gather your ingredients and get ready to savor every creamy, savory bite — you might just find yourself coming back for seconds!

Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 5 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe that is easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner. This classic dish features tender ground beef, earthy cremini mushrooms, and a rich sour cream sauce served over egg noodles.

Instructions

Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
Cook Ground Beef: Increase heat, add ground beef, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Mushrooms and Seasonings: Stir in mushrooms, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Cook until mushrooms are soft.
Thicken Sauce: Sprinkle flour over the mixture, then gradually add beef broth while stirring until smooth.
Incorporate Sour Cream: Reduce heat, mix in sour cream until smooth. Simmer until thickened.
Serve: Toss cooked pasta in the sauce or serve on plates. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef for a lighter version.
Feel free to add a splash of white wine for extra flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Russian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Ground Beef Stroganoff, Beef Stroganoff Recipe, Creamy Stroganoff, Easy Dinner Recipe