Comfort in a Bowl: Classic Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

There’s something truly heartwarming about sitting down to a bowl of creamy, savory Ground Beef Stroganoff. Whether it’s a chilly autumn evening or a weeknight when you need dinner on the table fast, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying—comfort food at its finest.

My introduction to Stroganoff came from my grandmother’s kitchen, where hearty meals were her love language. She always had a knack for turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals, and her Ground Beef Stroganoff was a family favorite. It was budget-friendly, quick to make, and full of that old-fashioned charm. This version pays homage to that heritage, with a few modern touches to make it even easier and more delicious.

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a simplified variation of the traditional Russian dish, Beef Stroganoff. Instead of using strips of steak, this recipe uses ground beef, making it faster to prepare without sacrificing flavor. The dish features seasoned ground beef cooked in a rich sour cream and mushroom sauce, served over egg noodles or rice.

The classic flavors of umami-rich mushrooms, creamy sauce, and tender beef combine to create a deeply comforting meal that’s beloved across generations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.

• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples without compromising on taste.

• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.

• One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup makes this a kitchen win.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make a delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef – Lean ground beef works best for less grease.

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced – White or cremini mushrooms are ideal.

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle tang.

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• Salt and black pepper – To taste.

• 8 oz egg noodles – Or substitute with rice or mashed potatoes.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – For garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Egg Noodles

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper, then remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are browned and their moisture has evaporated, about 5-6 minutes.

4. Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard, then bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Add Beef and Finish the Sauce

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir everything together and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken. Lower the heat and stir in the sour cream. Heat gently—do not boil once the sour cream is added to prevent curdling.

6. Serve and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles, and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef Stroganoff

• Use fresh mushrooms for a deeper umami flavor.

• Don’t skip the Dijon mustard—it adds a layer of complexity to the sauce.

• Sour cream substitution: Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.

• Thicker sauce tip: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer a few extra minutes or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

• Leftovers reheat well, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Variations to Try

1. Stroganoff with Ground Turkey or Chicken

For a leaner option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. Adjust the seasoning slightly to enhance the lighter flavor.

2. Vegetarian Stroganoff

Replace the beef with plant-based crumbles or extra mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a hearty meatless version.

3. Stroganoff with Cream Cheese

Add a couple tablespoons of cream cheese for an even creamier texture and richer flavor.

4. Gluten-Free Option

Use gluten-free noodles and substitute the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.

What to Serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff

Though it’s a complete meal on its own, here are a few side dish ideas that pair beautifully:

• Steamed green beans or broccoli

• A crisp green salad

• Buttered peas or carrots

• Garlic bread or dinner rolls

• Pickled beets or cucumbers – A nod to Stroganoff’s Eastern European roots

How to Store and Reheat

Storage:

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

Ground Beef Stroganoff can be frozen, though the texture of the sour cream sauce may change slightly. To freeze, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Stir gently to maintain the creamy texture.

A Comfort Classic Made Easy

Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect example of a timeless recipe that continues to win hearts through its simplicity and flavor. It’s rich enough to feel indulgent, but simple enough to make any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or serving guests, this dish delivers every time.

If you haven’t tried this version yet, now is the perfect time to bring a little warmth to your dinner table. With just a few pantry staples and less than 30 minutes, you can create a meal that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Print