Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and hearty flavors wrapped around tender ground beef and mushrooms, all coated in a luscious sour cream sauce. Served over a bed of buttery egg noodles, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, velvety sauce clings to every bite, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every mouthful.

Whether you’re making this for a busy weeknight dinner or serving it as a cozy meal for guests, it never fails to impress. The combination of simple ingredients transforms into something deeply flavorful and satisfying. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it a staple in many households.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stroganoff

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients while still delivering restaurant-quality taste.
Rich and Creamy: The combination of sour cream, mushrooms, and beef creates an irresistibly smooth sauce.
Kid-Friendly: A family favorite that even picky eaters will love.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup since everything comes together in a single pan.
Customizable: Swap beef for turkey, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, or add extra veggies for a personal touch.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make the best Ground Beef Stroganoff, having the right tools can make a big difference. Here’s what you’ll need and why each tool is essential:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A wide, deep skillet allows for even cooking and enough space to brown the beef properly. A non-stick or stainless-steel pan works best.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Helps break up the ground beef and stir the sauce smoothly without scratching your pan.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Needed for chopping onions, garlic, and mushrooms. A sharp knife makes prep work easier and faster.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for the perfect balance of flavors.
Whisk: Helps blend the broth and thickening agent smoothly for a lump-free sauce.

By using these tools, you’ll have an easier time preparing and cooking this dish while ensuring the best texture and consistency.

Preparation Tips

Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for 85% or 90% lean ground beef to reduce excess grease without sacrificing flavor. If using fattier beef, drain the excess grease after browning.
Slice Mushrooms Evenly: To ensure even cooking, slice mushrooms into uniform pieces. This prevents some from overcooking while others remain underdone.
Sauté Onions and Garlic First: Cooking them before adding the beef enhances their sweetness and depth of flavor.
Temper the Sour Cream: To prevent curdling, mix a bit of the hot sauce into the sour cream before adding it to the skillet. This helps stabilize the dairy.
Let the Sauce Simmer: Allowing the sauce to thicken slightly before adding the sour cream ensures a creamy, well-blended consistency.

With these preparation tips, you’ll get a perfectly creamy, flavorful Ground Beef Stroganoff every time!

Ingredients for This Ground Beef Stroganoff

To create a deliciously creamy and flavorful Ground Beef Stroganoff, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (85% or 90% lean) – Provides the savory, meaty base of the dish.
1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall aroma and taste.
8 oz mushrooms, sliced – Traditional in stroganoff, adding a rich, earthy flavor.
2 tbsp unsalted butter – Helps sauté the vegetables and adds richness.
1 tbsp all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the sauce.
1 cup beef broth – Forms the flavorful base of the stroganoff sauce.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds a tangy, umami depth to the dish.
1 tsp Dijon mustard – Enhances the richness with a slight tang.
½ tsp salt (or to taste) – Balances and enhances flavors.
½ tsp black pepper – Adds a mild heat.
½ cup sour cream – Creates the signature creamy texture.

For Serving:

12 oz egg noodles – The classic pasta choice for stroganoff, perfectly absorbing the sauce.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.

These simple ingredients come together to create a rich, satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor!

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
Drain the noodles, toss them with a little butter to prevent sticking, and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
Drain any excess grease if needed and transfer the beef to a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 3 minutes).
Stir in the garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and slightly browned.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly.
Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring, making sure no lumps form.
Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
Let the sauce simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to mix it with the sauce.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Mix gently until fully incorporated and heated through (do not boil to prevent curdling).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Plate the cooked egg noodles and spoon the beef stroganoff mixture over the top.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting, creamy dish!

This simple step-by-step method ensures a rich, flavorful Ground Beef Stroganoff every time.

Notes

Sour Cream Substitutes: If you don’t have sour cream, you can use Greek yogurt or heavy cream for a similar creamy texture.
Make It Lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner version.
Enhance the Flavor: A splash of white wine or a pinch of smoked paprika can deepen the taste.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for cornstarch and use gluten-free pasta.
Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free sour cream alternative.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

1. Overcooking the Beef

Browning the beef too long can make it dry and tough. Cook just until no pink remains.

2. Using Too Much Flour

Adding too much flour can result in an overly thick or pasty sauce. Stick to the recommended amount.

3. Skipping the Simmering Step

Letting the sauce simmer for a few minutes before adding sour cream ensures a well-blended, flavorful sauce.

4. Boiling the Sour Cream

High heat can cause sour cream to separate and curdle. Always lower the heat before stirring it in.

5. Not Seasoning Properly

Taste and adjust the seasoning at the end. A pinch of extra salt or Worcestershire sauce can enhance the overall flavor.

6. Using the Wrong Noodles

Egg noodles are the best choice because they hold the sauce well. Regular pasta may not provide the same texture.

Avoiding these mistakes will help you create a creamy, flavorful Ground Beef Stroganoff with the perfect balance of texture and taste.

What to Serve With Ground Beef Stroganoff?

While Ground Beef Stroganoff is a hearty dish on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to complement the creamy, savory flavors.

1. Garlic Bread

A warm, crispy slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the rich stroganoff sauce.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans add color and a delicious contrast to the creamy dish.

3. Side Salad

A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stroganoff.

4. Mashed Potatoes

If you want an extra comforting meal, serve the stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes instead of noodles.

5. Steamed Broccoli

A healthy and simple side that pairs well with the beefy, creamy sauce.

6. Buttered Peas

Sweet and buttery peas add a pop of color and mild sweetness to balance the dish.

7. Sautéed Spinach

Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic adds a nutritious and flavorful side.

8. Pickles or Pickled Beets

The tangy acidity of pickles or beets cuts through the richness of the stroganoff, making for a refreshing contrast.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:

Allow the stroganoff to cool completely before storing.
Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Freezing:

If you plan to freeze it, leave out the sour cream until reheating, as dairy can separate when frozen.
Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat on low heat, and stir in fresh sour cream.

Reheating Tips:

Avoid boiling the sauce when reheating to prevent the sour cream from curdling.
Stir occasionally and add extra broth if needed for a smooth consistency.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

Calories: ~450
Protein: ~28g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fat: ~20g
Saturated Fat: ~8g
Cholesterol: ~75mg
Fiber: ~3g
Sodium: ~500mg

(Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)

This dish is a hearty and satisfying meal, with a good balance of protein, carbs, and fat!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative. Just note that it has a milder flavor, so you may want to add extra seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.

2. What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great substitute that adds creaminess with extra protein. You can also use heavy cream for a richer sauce.

3. How do I prevent the sour cream from curdling?

Make sure to lower the heat before adding sour cream and stir it in gradually. Tempering it with a bit of warm sauce before mixing can also help.

4. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener, and serve it over gluten-free pasta or rice.

5. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer a little longer. You can also mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in.

6. Can I make this in advance?

Yes! Ground Beef Stroganoff reheats well. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently with a bit of extra broth to refresh the sauce.

7. What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of beef broth or milk to loosen it up while reheating. Stir well to maintain a smooth texture.

8. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While egg noodles are traditional, stroganoff also pairs well with fettuccine, rotini, rice, or even mashed potatoes.

Conclusion

Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and comforting flavors—all made in just one pan! Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or meal-prepping for later, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that comes together effortlessly. Plus, with so many ways to customize and serve it, you can make it your own.