When I first tasted Ground Beef Stroganoff at a friend’s dinner party, it was love at first bite. The creamy sauce, rich with savory beef and tender egg noodles, wrapped me in a comforting embrace that instantly transported me to a cozy kitchen scene. It’s surprising how simple ingredients can come together to create such a satisfying dish that feels both homey and indulgent.
As the chilly winds of autumn blew through my windows, I found myself craving the warmth of this classic recipe more than ever. There’s something about the combination of sautéed onions, earthy mushrooms, and hearty ground beef simmering in a velvety sauce that provides a delicious escape from fast food fatigue. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes—making it ideal for busy weeknights or an impromptu gathering with friends.
Whether you’re an experienced chef or a kitchen novice, Ground Beef Stroganoff is a dish that promises to impress without causing stress. Let’s dive into this sumptuous recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Why You'll Love This Ground Beef Stroganoff
- This Ground Beef Stroganoff is incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes.
- The rich, creamy flavor of the sauce combined with tender beef and egg noodles is simply irresistible and will leave everyone asking for seconds.
- Plus, its versatility means you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
- Not to mention, this dish is visually appealing, making it perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Ingredients
For the Stroganoff
• Ground beef – a rich source of flavor; lean ground beef works well if you prefer less fat.
• Yellow onion – adds sweetness and depth; can be swapped with shallots for a subtle twist.
• Garlic – enhances the overall savory profile; feel free to use garlic powder in a pinch.
• Mushrooms – optional, but they provide an earthy, meaty texture; you can substitute with sautéed zucchini for a lighter option.
• Butter – gives a luxurious mouthfeel; olive oil is a great, healthier alternative.
• All-purpose flour – helps thicken the sauce; cornstarch can work as a gluten-free alternative.
• Beef broth – imparts umami richness; chicken broth is a fine substitute if you prefer a milder taste.
• Worcestershire sauce – adds a hint of tang and complexity; soy sauce can be used for a different flavor dimension.
• Sour cream – contributes creaminess and tang; Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute.
• Egg noodles – the perfect carrier for the sauce; quick-cooking pasta can be used if you’re in a hurry.
• Salt – enhances all flavors; adjust to taste, especially if your broth is already salty.
• Black pepper – adds a dash of heat; white pepper can be used for a subtler flavor.
• Fresh parsley – an optional garnish that brightens the dish; try chives for a fresh twist.
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
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Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
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Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add chopped onions and sauté until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, mix in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are browned and release their moisture, around 5-7 minutes.
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Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
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Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for 5-7 minutes.
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Combine the Beef: Return the browned beef back into the skillet, mixing it in thoroughly. Lower the heat and gently fold in the sour cream, simmering for 2-3 minutes. Avoid boiling to keep the sauce creamy.
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Cook the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. After draining, fold the noodles into the sauce until they are fully coated and heated through.
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Season and Serve: Taste and season the dish with salt and pepper as desired. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if you like a pop of color.
Optional: For a little extra flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef Stroganoff components are perfect for meal prep! You can brown the ground beef and cook the aromatic onions, garlic, and mushrooms up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. Additionally, mix together the sour cream and Worcestershire sauce in a separate bowl and refrigerate as well. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the beef mixture in a skillet, add the sour cream mixture, and simmer until heated through. Cook the egg noodles fresh to keep that wonderful texture, folding them into the sauce just before serving for a wonderfully wholesome meal that’s just as delicious as when made from scratch!
What to Serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the rich flavors of this comforting dish.
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Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky crunch of freshly baked bread adds a deliciously decadent touch to your meal, perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
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Steamed Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans bring a fresh, vibrant contrast to the richness of the stroganoff, enhancing color and nutrition on your plate.
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Caesar Salad: This classic salad with its crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and Parmesan adds a refreshing bite, balancing the hearty nature of the dish.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables, like carrots and bell peppers, pairs beautifully with the stroganoff’s savory flavors while adding a touch of sweetness.
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Mashed Potatoes: Smooth, buttery mashed potatoes are a soul-soothing combination, providing an extra layer of comfort that complements the creamy sauce of your stroganoff.
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Chardonnay: A chilled glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy tang of the dish, enhancing the flavors while offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with vanilla ice cream provides a sweet and crunchy finish, rounding out the comforting meal experience.
Explore these pairings to create a memorable dining experience that your family will cherish!
Ground Beef Stroganoff Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own with these delicious ideas.
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Gluten-Free: Replace egg noodles with gluten-free pasta, ensuring everyone can enjoy this dish without worry. A hearty brown rice or quinoa will also lend a delightful chewiness.
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Mushroom-Free: Skip mushrooms if they aren’t your favorite; simply add more onions or throw in some chopped bell peppers for extra flavor and color. This twist can give your stroganoff a fresh, unique flair.
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Creamy & Dreamy: Swap the sour cream for a rich mascarpone or cream cheese for an ultra-creamy experience. Just remember to whisk it in gently for a smooth finish!
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes for a zesty heat that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s an incredible boost that turns up the excitement on this classic.
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Beefy Boost: Use a combination of ground beef and pork for an incredibly savory depth. This mixture will elevate the dish’s meaty richness while keeping it irresistibly tender.
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Veggie Delight: Incorporate spinach or kale just before serving for a nutritional punch. These greens will add freshness while beautifully complementing the creamy sauce.
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Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or dill, or add a splash of white wine for an extra layer of flavor. It’ll bring a whole new dimension to your stroganoff!
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Cheesy Twist: Stir in some shredded cheddar or Parmesan at the end for a cheesy variation that adds a savory richness to the sauce. This melt-in-your-mouth addition will make the dish even more comforting!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating on the stovetop with a splash of broth will help revive the creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Ground Beef Stroganoff in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Assembly Tip: To maintain the integrity of the egg noodles, consider storing them separately from the sauce. Combine just before serving for best texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Ground Beef Stroganoff, ensure you finely chop the onions and garlic for a balanced flavor distribution.
- A common mistake is overcooking the beef; cook it just until no longer pink for the best texture.
- To enhance the sauce’s creaminess, always add the sour cream off the heat to prevent curdling.
- For perfectly cooked egg noodles, follow the package instructions closely and consider adding them to the sauce just before serving for a fresh and flavorful blend.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef should I use for Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Absolutely! I recommend using lean ground beef to keep the dish hearty without being overly greasy. If you want even less fat, you can go for extra-lean ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative.
How should I store leftovers of Ground Beef Stroganoff?
After your delicious meal, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat with a splash of beef broth or water to restore its creamy texture and avoid drying it out.
Can I freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the Stroganoff cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat.
- Add a little broth or water as needed to help loosen the sauce.
- Stir occasionally until heated through.
What if my sauce is too thick when reheating?
If your sauce turns out thicker than desired during reheating, don’t worry! Simply add a tablespoon of beef broth or water at a time, stirring until you achieve the desired consistency. It happens to the best of us!
Is Ground Beef Stroganoff safe for pets or people with allergies?
While the ingredients in Ground Beef Stroganoff are generally safe for humans, many of them, like garlic and onions, can be harmful to pets. If you’re preparing this dish for someone with food allergies, ensure to check for common allergens in sauces or substitutes, especially with Worcestershire sauce or sour cream.
Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add chopped onions and sauté until they’re soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, mix in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms are browned and release their moisture, around 5-7 minutes.
- Thicken the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the onion mixture, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Cook for about 1 minute to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the beef broth while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken for 5-7 minutes.
- Combine the Beef: Return the browned beef back into the skillet, mixing it in thoroughly. Lower the heat and gently fold in the sour cream, simmering for 2-3 minutes. Avoid boiling to keep the sauce creamy.
- Cook the Noodles: While the sauce simmers, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. After draining, fold the noodles into the sauce until they are fully coated and heated through.
- Season and Serve: Taste and season the dish with salt and pepper as desired. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if you like a pop of color.
