Ground Beef Stroganoff

Name: Ground Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cups egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Food Collection

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stroganoff for dinner! It’s a comforting, hearty dish that brings back memories from my childhood. The tender beef, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked egg noodles create a symphony of flavors that warms the soul. I enjoy adding a touch of Worcestershire sauce for depth and a hint of brightness from fresh herbs. It's quick to prepare, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights while still feeling indulgent and satisfying.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:45:42.980Z

When I first tried my hand at cooking Ground Beef Stroganoff, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet delicious it turned out. The combination of sautéed onions, mushrooms, and seasoned beef creates a rich base for the creamy sauce, making it both flavorful and filling. I learned that allowing the sauce to simmer with the beef really helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.

One crucial tip I discovered over the years is to use sour cream at the end of cooking to maintain that creamy texture without curdling. It makes the dish wonderfully smooth and adds a freshness that balances the savory elements. Always serve with egg noodles for that traditional touch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy sauce that envelops tender beef and noodles
Quick preparation that's perfect for busy weeknights
Rich flavors that evoke comfort and nostalgia

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Ground Beef Stroganoff relies on quality ingredients. Selecting fresh mushrooms is crucial; opt for cremini or button mushrooms, as they impart a deeper umami flavor to the dish. If you're in a pinch, canned mushrooms can work in a bind, but the texture won’t be as satisfying. Additionally, choosing a lean ground beef ensures that your sauce remains rich without being overly greasy. If you're aiming for a lighter version, ground turkey can be a wonderful substitute while still delivering a flavorful experience.

Sour cream is another key element that adds that signature creaminess. If you want to lighten up the dish, Greek yogurt can make for a great alternative, providing similar texture with added protein. Be cautious when adding it; incorporate it off the heat to prevent curdling. Finally, fresh parsley not only brightens the dish visually but also cuts through the richness, so don’t skip the garnish.

Perfecting Your Technique

Timing is critical when cooking the beef and onions. Aim for a medium heat; this allows the onions to become translucent—about 5 minutes—without browning too quickly. Once you add the ground beef, ensure it is broken up properly to promote even cooking and browning, which enhances the flavor. If you find clumps, use a wooden spatula to break them apart as they cook. Overcooking the beef can lead to a tough texture, so watch for just a brown edge before removing excess fat.

When adding flour, mix it thoroughly but quickly to avoid clumping. The key is to cook the flour for at least a minute with the beef and mushrooms before adding the broth; this helps to remove the raw flour taste and thicken the sauce effectively. Incorporating the Worcestershire sauce at this stage is essential—it deepens the flavor profile, giving that classic Stroganoff taste. Simmer this mix gently; boiling can overly reduce the sauce, resulting in a less creamy final product.

Ingredients

For the Stroganoff

1 pound ground beef
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cups egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and ground beef, cooking until the meat is browned. Drain excess fat.

Add Mushrooms and Season

Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture, stirring until well combined.

Make the Sauce

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, bringing it to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.

Finish with Sour Cream

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream until the mixture is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Enjoy

Toss the cooked egg noodles with the stroganoff sauce and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a splash of white wine before adding the broth. This will enhance the depth of the sauce. Make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste, as some beef broths can be quite salty.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Ground Beef Stroganoff can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To do this, prepare the dish as directed but leave out the sour cream until you’re ready to serve. This prevents the sauce from becoming too thick as it sits. Simply reheat the beef mixture over low heat, stirring gently, then add the sour cream just before serving to retain its creaminess.

If you want to meal prep for the week, consider portioning out the dish into freezer-safe containers after it has cooled completely. It will freeze well for up to 3 months. Reheating is simple; just thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce appears too thick.

Serving Suggestions

While egg noodles are traditional, serving your Stroganoff over rice, quinoa, or even mashed potatoes can provide a delightful twist. For a healthier take, consider spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice, which will absorb the sauce beautifully while being lower in carbohydrates. Don’t forget a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.

To elevate your Stroganoff, you could incorporate a splash of white wine when you add the broth to develop deeper flavors. Additionally, a sprinkling of your favorite cheese on top, such as Parmesan or even a bit of Gouda, can enhance the overall dish and create a delightful crust when baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?

You can use gluten-free flour to thicken the sauce and serve it with gluten-free noodles.

→ Can I prepare this in advance?

Absolutely! You can cook everything except the sour cream and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the sour cream when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Stroganoff?

It's traditionally served with egg noodles, but you can also pair it with rice or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.