Name: Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe – Quick & Creamy Meal
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs lean ground beef; 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (~1.5 cups); 4-5 cloves garlic, minced (or 1.5 tbsp pre-minced); 8 oz sliced mushrooms; 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided; 1 tbsp olive oil; 3 tbsp all-purpose flour; 3 cups low-sodium beef broth; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp Dijon mustard; 1.5 cups full-fat sour cream, at room temperature; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish; 12-16 oz wide egg noodles; Salt for cooking noodles

Ground Beef Stroganoff is more than just a meal; it’s a timeless classic that evokes a sense of comforting nostalgia with every savory bite. Are you ready to dive into a world of rich flavors and creamy textures, all while keeping things wonderfully simple in your kitchen?

Originally hailing from 19th-century Russia, named after the prominent Stroganoff family, this dish has undergone countless delicious transformations over the years. While the traditional version often features tender cuts of beef, my approach focuses on the humble yet incredibly versatile ground beef, making this beloved recipe accessible and perfect for any weeknight family dinner. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary.

Why Everyone Admires Ground Beef Stroganoff

There’s a clear reason why this dish remains a perennial favorite. Its irresistible combination of succulent beef, sautéed mushrooms, and a luxurious, tangy sour cream sauce creates an unparalleled depth of flavor. People love it not only for its incredible taste and velvety texture but also for its remarkable convenience – it comes together relatively quickly, offering a hearty, satisfying meal that truly sticks to your ribs. My recipe for Ground Beef Stroganoff promises to deliver all the classic appeal with an ease that will surprise and delight you.

Ingredients:

For the Ground Beef Stroganoff:

1.5 – 2 pounds lean ground beef (I usually opt for 85/15 or 90/10 for a good balance of flavor and less grease).
1 large yellow onion, finely chopped (about 1.5 cups).
4-5 cloves garlic, minced (or 1.5 tablespoons pre-minced).
16 ounces cremini mushrooms (also known as baby bellas), sliced. White button mushrooms work beautifully too!
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided (2 tablespoons for mushrooms, 1 tablespoon for the roux).
1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning the beef).
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour.
3 cups beef broth, low sodium (or beef stock for richer flavor).
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce. This is key for that classic umami depth in your Ground Beef Stroganoff!
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard.
1.5 cups full-fat sour cream, at room temperature (it mixes in much smoother this way).
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but I find it adds a lovely warmth).
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (about 1/4 cup).

For Serving:

12-16 ounces wide egg noodles.
Salt for cooking noodles.

Preparation and Sautéing the Ground Beef

Prepare Your Ingredients: Before you even think about turning on the heat, I always find it best to get all my ingredients prepped and ready to go. This “mise en place” approach makes the cooking process so much smoother and more enjoyable. Finely chop your yellow onion, mince the garlic, and slice your mushrooms. If your sour cream is cold from the fridge, set it out on the counter now so it can come closer to room temperature. This will help prevent it from curdling when you add it to the hot sauce later, which is a common pitfall people face when making a creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff.
Brown the Ground Beef: Grab a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or a Dutch oven – something with plenty of surface area is ideal for achieving a good sear. Place it over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add your lean ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. My goal here is not just to cook the beef, but to get a really good, deep brown color on it. This browning creates fantastic flavor, known as the Maillard reaction, which is absolutely essential for a rich and savory Ground Beef Stroganoff. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes.
Drain Excess Fat: Once the beef is beautifully browned, carefully tilt the skillet and drain off any accumulated fat. Leaner ground beef usually produces less fat, but even a little bit can make the final dish greasy. You can either spoon the fat out or carefully transfer the beef to a colander set over a bowl. Return the drained beef to the skillet and set it aside for just a moment.

Building the Flavor Base

Sauté the Mushrooms: In the same skillet (no need to clean it, those browned bits are flavor!), melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add your sliced mushrooms. Now, here’s a crucial tip for really flavorful mushrooms: don’t overcrowd the pan, and resist the urge to stir them constantly. Let them sit undisturbed for a few minutes until they release their moisture and start to develop a beautiful golden-brown color. This caramelization is what gives them that earthy, umami depth we crave in a classic Ground Beef Stroganoff. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally after the initial browning, until they are tender and deeply golden. Once cooked, push the mushrooms to one side of the skillet, making a clear space in the center.
Cook the Onions and Garlic: To the cleared space in the center of the skillet, add your finely chopped yellow onion. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Sauté the onions, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and softened. You want them tender, not browned, as this will lay a sweet foundation for our sauce. Once the onions are soft, add the minced garlic. Stir it in with the onions and mushrooms, and cook for just 1 minute more until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can taste bitter and will definitely detract from the deliciousness of your Ground Beef Stroganoff.

Creating the Creamy Stroganoff Sauce

Create a Roux: Push the mushroom, onion, and garlic mixture to the sides of the pan again, creating a small well in the center. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to this well and let it melt. Once melted, sprinkle in the 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Stir the flour into the melted butter (and any lingering cooking fats) with your wooden spoon, creating a thick paste known as a roux. Cook this roux, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. You’ll see it turn a pale golden color and it will smell faintly nutty. This step is vital because the roux acts as a thickener for our sauce and also helps to cook out the raw flour taste, ensuring a smooth, velvety consistency for your Ground Beef Stroganoff.
Deglaze and Build the Sauce Base: Slowly, and I mean slowly, pour in the 3 cups of low-sodium beef broth into the skillet, whisking constantly as you pour. The mixture will look very thick at first, almost like a paste, but keep whisking! As you add more liquid, it will smooth out into a rich sauce. Make sure to scrape up any browned bits (the “fond”) from the bottom of the skillet with your spoon or whisk; these are packed with flavor from the ground beef and vegetables and are essential for a truly savory Ground Beef Stroganoff. Once all the broth is incorporated, stir in the 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. If you’re using smoked paprika, now is the time to add it in too. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. It should be thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Combine and Return Beef: Once the sauce has thickened beautifully, return the browned ground beef to the skillet, stirring it well to combine with the mushroom, onion, and garlic mixture and ensuring every bit is coated in that luscious sauce. Reduce the heat to low. We want to keep the sauce warm, but not boiling, for the next crucial step.
Incorporate the Sour Cream: This is where the magic really happens for a creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff. Remove the skillet from the heat, or at least turn the burner off completely. This step is important because if the sauce is boiling or too hot, the sour cream can curdle, resulting in a grainy texture instead of the smooth, luxurious finish we’re aiming for. Add the 1.5 cups of room-temperature full-fat sour cream to the beef and sauce mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until the sour cream is completely incorporated and the sauce is uniformly creamy and pale brown. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. I usually start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, then add more until it’s perfect for my palate. Remember, the beef broth might already contain some salt, so always taste before adding too much.

Finishing Touches and Serving

Cook the Egg Noodles: While your Ground Beef Stroganoff sauce is simmering and melding flavors, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your 12-16 ounces of wide egg noodles and cook according to package directions until they are al dente. “Al dente” means they should be tender but still have a slight bite to them. Overcooked noodles can become mushy and aren’t nearly as enjoyable. Once cooked, drain the noodles thoroughly in a colander. You can either serve the stroganoff spooned directly over the noodles, or, if you prefer, you can add the drained noodles directly into the skillet with the stroganoff sauce and toss to combine, ensuring every noodle is coated in that amazing sauce. This latter method is my personal favorite, as it makes for an even more integrated dish.
Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle a generous amount of fresh chopped parsley over the top of your creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff. The parsley adds a wonderful pop of fresh color and a bright, herbaceous note that cuts through the richness of the dish. Serve immediately, while everything is still wonderfully warm and inviting. This recipe truly delivers comfort in a bowl, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a comforting dish for a cozy weekend dinner. Enjoy every spoonful of this hearty and flavorful classic!

<h2>Conclusion:</h2>
<p>So, there you have it — my absolute favorite recipe for a truly unforgettable meal that consistently delivers on flavor and comfort. This isn’t just any weeknight dinner; it’s a culinary hug in a bowl, designed to simplify your life without sacrificing an ounce of taste. I genuinely believe that once you try this incredible <strong>Ground Beef Stroganoff</strong>, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your family’s meal rotation. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making even the busiest weeknight feel a little more special. Imagine a creamy, savory sauce enveloping tender ground beef, all tossed with perfectly cooked noodles — pure bliss! This recipe stands out not only for its incredible taste but also for its remarkable efficiency, making it the ideal solution for those evenings when you crave something truly satisfying but are short on time. It transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet-worthy meal, proving that you don’t need a culinary degree to create something truly spectacular.</p>

<h4>Why This Stroganoff is a Game-Changer</h4>
<p>What makes this recipe a definite must-try, you ask? Well, for starters, its sheer simplicity and speed are unparalleled. We’re talking about a dish that comes together faster than you can decide on takeout, utilizing ingredients you likely already have on hand. There’s no complex technique or exotic components — just honest, wholesome flavors working in harmony. It’s the perfect answer to the “what’s for dinner?” dilemma when time is short but expectations for deliciousness are high. <strong>This recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.</strong> It’s incredibly adaptable too, catering to various palates from the pickiest eaters to the most discerning foodies. Plus, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it simmers is an experience in itself, promising a delightful meal to come. This stroganoff is also incredibly forgiving, making it perfect for novice cooks who are looking to build confidence in the kitchen, as well as seasoned chefs who appreciate a reliable, delicious staple.</p>

<h4>Perfect Pairings for Your Stroganoff</h4>
<p>While traditionally served over broad egg noodles, the versatility of this dish truly shines when considering serving options. For a classic experience, those rich, buttery egg noodles are undeniably the way to go, perfectly soaking up every drop of that creamy, savory sauce. However, don’t limit yourself! Try spooning it over fluffy white rice for a different texture profile, or even creamy mashed potatoes for an ultimate comfort food combination. <strong>Imagine the rich sauce cascading over a mountain of buttery mash — simply divine!</strong> If you’re looking to lighten things up slightly, a bed of sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice makes for a fantastic low-carb alternative without compromising on flavor. These options provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the stroganoff, allowing you to enjoy the dish in a way that suits your dietary preferences. And for a complete meal, always remember a crisp green salad on the side — perhaps with a tangy vinaigrette — to cut through the richness and add a refreshing element to your plate. A crusty piece of sourdough bread is also excellent for soaking up any leftover sauce, ensuring not a single drop of flavor goes to waste.</p>

<h5>Get Creative: Your Stroganoff, Your Rules!</h5>
<p>One of the things I love most about cooking is the freedom to experiment, and this recipe is wonderfully forgiving. Feel free to customize it to your heart’s content! If you’re a mushroom lover, don’t hesitate to add extra sliced mushrooms — crimini or button work beautifully — sautéing them with the onions for an even deeper umami flavor. Not a fan of ground beef? <strong>While this recipe specifically highlights the ease and deliciousness of ground beef, you could certainly substitute it with ground turkey or even finely diced chicken breast for a different take.</strong> For a dairy-free version, consider using full-fat coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream alternative, though be mindful that the flavor profile will shift slightly and may require some seasoning adjustments. Want to sneak in more veggies? Finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of fresh spinach wilted in at the end can boost the nutritional value and add lovely color and texture. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your personal preference — a pinch of smoked paprika can add a subtle depth, or a touch more mustard can intensify that classic tang. You can even add a splash of dry white wine or beef broth during the simmering process for an extra layer of complexity. The possibilities are truly endless, making this a recipe you can truly make your own.</p>

<p>Now it’s your turn! I truly hope you’ll give this recipe a try very soon. It’s more than just a meal; it’s an experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. <strong>Whip up a batch for your family, serve it at your next gathering, or simply treat yourself to a comforting bowl after a long day.</strong> Once you’ve savored every delicious bite, I would absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any fun variations? What did your family think? Did you pair it with something unexpected that turned out to be amazing? Share your thoughts, tips, and even photos in the comments below! Your feedback not only makes my day but also helps other home cooks discover new ideas and fall in love with this recipe too. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing others enjoy something I’ve poured my heart into, and your stories truly inspire me.</p>

<p>Happy cooking, my friends! I’m confident that this hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy <strong>Ground Beef Stroganoff</strong> will become a cherished recipe in your culinary repertoire for years to come. Enjoy every delicious moment and the warmth it brings to your table!</p>