Ground Beef Stroganoff

Name: Ground Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp flour; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish; 8 oz egg noodles; Water for boiling

Highlighted under: Simple Comfort Food Inspiration

I love making Ground Beef Stroganoff because it combines hearty flavors with a creamy sauce that hugs every bit of pasta. It’s a favorite in my home, especially during busy weeknights when I crave something comforting yet quick to prepare. The steps are simple, and the results are delicious! Incorporating mushrooms adds depth to the sauce, while the sour cream lends that signature richness that elevates this classic dish. With just a bit of patience, you’ll create a meal that everyone will want seconds of.

Created by

Thea Montgomery

Last updated on 2026-01-24T12:39:34.774Z

During my culinary adventures, Ground Beef Stroganoff became a go-to dish because it balances so well with egg noodles and brings my family together. I remember the first time I made it; I had a craving for hearty comfort food. The ingredients are simple, but when you sauté the beef with onions and mushrooms, the aroma fills the kitchen and draws everyone in.

One tip that makes a difference is using high-quality sour cream; it creates a velvety texture that enhances the entire dish. I've experimented with adding a touch of Dijon mustard for a subtle kick, which pairs beautifully with the savory meat and creamy sauce. This dish is truly a winner at the dinner table!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, meaty flavor complemented by creamy sauce
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Comfort food that everyone in the family enjoys

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When making Ground Beef Stroganoff, the quality of your ingredients significantly impacts the final dish. Opt for lean ground beef (about 80/20), which balances flavor and fat for a rich sauce without being greasy. If you're looking for a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, though the flavor profile will change slightly, making the dish a bit lighter.

Mushrooms also play a crucial role, adding umami and texture. I recommend using cremini or button mushrooms for this recipe. If you’d like to vary the flavor, consider incorporating shiitake mushrooms for a deeper, earthier taste. Just remember to slice them evenly for consistent cooking, and avoid crowding the pan when sautéing to achieve that lovely golden color.

Mastering the Sauce

Building the sauce is where the magic happens. After adding the minced garlic and flour, be sure to cook it for a minute to eliminate the raw flour taste. This step not only thickens the sauce but also develops a delightful depth of flavor. Look for a bubbly, slightly thickened mixture before introducing the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, which will add richness and complexity to your dish.

When stirring in the sour cream, take your skillet off the heat. This prevents the cream from curdling. If you find the sauce too thick after adding the sour cream, loosen it with a splash of beef broth or even a few tablespoons of water until you reach your desired consistency. A well-balanced sauce should coat the pasta beautifully without being overly runny.

Ingredients

For the Stroganoff

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsp flour
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

For Serving

8 oz egg noodles
Water for boiling

Prepare the ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.

Instructions

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the egg noodles. Cook according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Beef

In a large skillet, melt some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are softened.

Build the Sauce

Add minced garlic and flour to the skillet. Mix well, then pour in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Finish with Sour Cream

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve

Serve the beef stroganoff over noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.

Enjoy this dish warm, and feel free to pair it with a side salad!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the mushrooms.

Make-Ahead Tips

Ground Beef Stroganoff can be made ahead of time, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. If you're planning to prepare it in advance, cook the sauce and store it separately from the noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy. The stroganoff will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days, and the flavors deepen as it sits, so it could be even better the next day.

To reheat, simply warm the stroganoff in a skillet over low heat, adding a little beef broth to bring it back to that creamy consistency. Cook the noodles fresh right before serving for a delightful pairing of textures.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Ground Beef Stroganoff, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or sautéed green beans for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can take this dish to the next level, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor that complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

For a twist on the traditional recipe, feel free to incorporate vegetables like peas or spinach. Just add them to the skillet along with the mushrooms for a pop of color and additional nutrients. This not only enhances the dish but also makes it visually appealing, ensuring everyone at the table enjoys it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and will give a lighter flavor.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stroganoff a day before and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I add to make it vegetarian?

You can replace ground beef with a mix of sautéed vegetables and tempeh or mushrooms for a hearty alternative.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover stroganoff in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.