If you are craving a comforting and hearty meal that can be whipped up in no time, this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining the rich flavors of tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and creamy sauce, it’s a dish that brings warmth to your table with every bite. The ease of preparation, balanced with the depth of traditional Stroganoff taste, makes this recipe both a family favorite and a perfect weeknight dinner option you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is simple but crucial to creating that iconic creamy, savory profile. Together they build the perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1 lb Ground beef: The hearty foundation, providing rich and meaty flavor.
- 1 Medium onion (finely chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 8 oz Mushrooms (sliced): Earthy, juicy mushrooms enhance the umami and texture.
- 2 Cloves garlic (minced): Infuses aromatic sharpness to elevate the sauce.
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce into a luscious, creamy consistency.
- 1 cup Beef broth: Builds a rich, savory base that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 cup Sour cream: Adds the signature smooth, tangy creaminess essential for Stroganoff.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Boosts depth with its complex, savory tang.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance and balance every bite.
- 8 oz Egg noodles: The classic pasta choice to soak up that irresistible sauce.
- Parsley (chopped for garnish): Brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal note.
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned all over, breaking it up as it cooks. Browning is key here because it develops that rich, savory flavor base. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat after cooking to keep the sauce from becoming greasy and heavy.
Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms and Onions
Add the sliced mushrooms and finely chopped onions right into the same skillet with your beef. Sauté them until they turn tender and start to caramelize, which usually takes around five minutes. This process helps bring out their natural sweetness and deepens the flavor of the entire dish. Toss in the minced garlic near the end so it doesn’t burn, just releases its lovely aroma.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the mixture, stirring it in to coat everything. This will act as your thickening agent. Then, gradually pour in the beef broth along with Worcestershire sauce while stirring continuously. This combination transforms the skillet’s ingredients into a thick, sumptuous sauce that is packed with flavor and the perfect consistency.
Step 4: Add Creaminess
Turn the heat down to low and stir in the sour cream slowly. It’s important to lower the heat so the sour cream blends in smoothly without curdling. This gives the sauce its signature creamy texture and slight tang that you expect from a classic Stroganoff. Finish this step by seasoning with salt and pepper, tasting as you go to get the balance just right.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Cook your egg noodles according to package instructions until tender and drain them well. Then plate your stovetop masterpiece by piling those noodles high and spooning the rich Stroganoff sauce on top. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and that fresh herbal note that brightens every bite.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Garnishes
Parsley is the classic choice, but feel free to experiment with a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives for a slightly different herbal twist. A little cracked black pepper over the top also adds visual appeal and a subtle kick.
Side Dishes
This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed green beans, a crisp garden salad, or buttery roasted vegetables. These sides provide a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy richness of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the Stroganoff in small bowls with a dollop of sour cream and parsley on top. Alternatively, try layering the mixture over mashed potatoes or even inside a buttered baked potato for a cozy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish, but it’s best to do so without the noodles to keep them from becoming mushy. Freeze the Stroganoff sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. If reheating in the microwave, use medium power and stir often to warm evenly without curdling the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can make for a lighter version. Just be mindful it may need a bit more seasoning and careful cooking to maintain moisture.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute offering similar tang and creaminess, though add it off heat to prevent curdling.
Is it necessary to use Worcestershire sauce?
While it adds wonderful depth and umami, if you don’t have it, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can be interesting substitutes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken and ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free versions.
How can I make this dish more vegetarian-friendly?
Skip the ground beef and use mushrooms and lentils or plant-based meat substitutes to keep the hearty feel but make it meatless.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something so irresistible about this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe that makes it feel like a warm hug after a long day. Its comforting creaminess, rich beefy flavor, and quick preparation make it an all-time favorite worth adding to your recipe collection. Give it a try tonight — your taste buds will thank you for this delicious, cozy meal!
PrintGround Beef Stroganoff Recipe
A classic and comforting Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe that’s ready in just 30 minutes. This creamy dish combines tender ground beef, sautéed mushrooms and onions, and a flavorful sour cream sauce served over egg noodles, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb Ground beef
- 1 Medium onion (finely chopped)
- 8 oz Mushrooms (sliced)
- 2 Cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1 cup Beef broth
- 1 cup Sour cream
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 oz Egg noodles
- Parsley (chopped for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Sauté Mushrooms and Onions: Add the sliced mushrooms and finely chopped onions to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes until they become tender and golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to bring out its aroma.
- Build the Sauce: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the beef and vegetable mixture, stirring to combine evenly. Gradually pour in the beef broth and add the Worcestershire sauce while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens and becomes flavorful.
- Add Creaminess: Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Avoid boiling after adding sour cream to prevent curdling.
- Serve and Garnish: Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and plate the noodles, then spoon the Stroganoff sauce over them. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Notes
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to keep the sauce from becoming greasy.
- Do not boil the sauce after adding sour cream to prevent curdling.
- You can use beef stock or broth; homemade or store-bought both work well.
- Fresh parsley adds color and a subtle herby taste to finish the dish.
- For a richer flavor, use full-fat sour cream.