If you have a craving for a comforting, creamy, and utterly satisfying dish, this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining tender ground beef with rich mushrooms and a luscious sour cream sauce, this dish offers the perfect harmony of flavor and texture. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re a stroganoff veteran or trying it for the first time, this recipe brings cozy vibes and that classic Russian-inspired taste everyone loves.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and easy to find, but each one plays a crucial role in building the deep, comforting flavors and the silky texture of this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a hearty and flavorful protein base while keeping it lean for a balanced dish.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness and helps to sauté the veggies beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Gives a sweet, aromatic undertone that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a subtle sharpness and depth that awakens the flavors.
- 8 ounces cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced: Offers earthiness and tender texture that complements the beef wonderfully.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the sauce for that creamy consistency everyone craves.
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth: Forms the flavorful base of the sauce, intensifying the meaty notes.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex umami punch that makes the sauce unforgettable.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Brings creaminess and a subtle tang that balances the richness perfectly.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning so every bite sings.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh brightness.
- 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions: The classic bed for your stroganoff, absorbing all that luscious sauce.
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once melted, add the lean ground beef and cook it until it is beautifully browned, which should take about 6 to 7 minutes. Browning the beef not only locks in flavor but also adds a caramelized richness that forms the backbone of this dish. Drain any excess fat to keep the sauce light yet delicious.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Next, toss in the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onions until they turn translucent and soft, which usually takes around 4 to 5 minutes. This step gently builds layers of sweetness and aroma that make the sauce so comforting. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds while it releases its fragrant, slightly pungent flavor without burning.
Step 3: Sauté Mushrooms
Now, add your sliced cremini or baby bella mushrooms to the skillet. Cooking them for 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and release their earthy juices adds that signature heartiness to this stroganoff. The mushrooms soak up all those savory flavors while contributing a tender bite that contrasts beautifully with the beef.
Step 4: Create the Roux
Sprinkle the flour evenly over your mixture and stir everything together. Continue to cook this for 1 to 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste, creating a roux. This step is crucial because it thickens the sauce later, giving it that silky, velvety texture we all anticipate when we think of stroganoff.
Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer
Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly, ensuring the mixture stays smooth without lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce for a deep umami kick. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld into a rich, savory sauce that perfectly coats every morsel.
Step 6: Incorporate Sour Cream and Season
Reduce the heat to low, then carefully stir in the sour cream until the sauce is creamy and perfectly smooth. This addition gives your Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe its signature tang and silkiness that sets it apart from any ordinary beef dish. Finally, season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tweaking it to your personal preference.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the mouthwatering beef and sauce mixture hot over cooked egg noodles, the classic base that catches all the creamy goodness in every bite. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a bright, fresh contrast both visually and flavor-wise. Now you’re ready to dig into a dinner that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a lovely touch of color and a hint of herbal brightness that cuts through the richness of the sour cream and beef sauce. You can also add a dollop of extra sour cream if you like, or even a sprinkle of paprika for a bit more warmth and a gorgeous finish.
Side Dishes
While egg noodles are classic and perfect, this stroganoff also pairs wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes, rice, or even a crusty slice of sourdough bread to soak up every drip of the sauce. For some extra greens, serve it alongside steamed broccoli or a crisp salad to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to change things up? Try layering the stroganoff inside a hollowed-out baked potato or serving it over roasted spaghetti squash for a lower-carb option. You can also spoon it into warm pita pockets topped with fresh greens for a fun, handheld twist that’s sure to impress at casual lunches or dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your stroganoff, store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy this hearty dish again without any loss of flavor or texture.
Freezing
This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe also freezes nicely. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the sour cream can sometimes separate a bit, so gentle reheating techniques work best to maintain that creamy consistency.
Reheating
Reheat your stroganoff gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave at medium power, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly. If the sauce looks too thick after chilling or freezing, add a splash of beef broth or water to bring it back to that perfect creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic and budget-friendly, you can also try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just keep in mind the cooking times and fat content might vary slightly, so adjust seasoning accordingly.
Is it necessary to cook the beef before adding the mushrooms and other ingredients?
Yes, browning the beef first develops flavor and texture that are essential to this stroganoff. Adding the mushrooms and aromatics after the beef is browned allows each ingredient to retain its character while blending beautifully later on.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Just mix the cornstarch with a little cold water before adding to avoid lumps and continue cooking until the sauce thickens.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don’t have sour cream on hand, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for tang and creaminess. Just make sure to add it at a lower heat to prevent curdling and keep that luscious texture.
How long does this Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe take from start to finish?
This recipe is wonderfully quick, with about 10 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. It’s perfect for nights when you want something hearty without spending hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is one of those unbeatable comfort dishes that feels like a warm embrace from the first bite to the last. It’s easy enough to whip up on a busy evening, yet so rich and flavorful that you’ll want to make it again and again. I genuinely hope you enjoy making and savoring this classic dish as much as I do — there’s nothing quite like cozying up with stroganoff on the table.
Print
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff featuring tender sautéed mushrooms, rich sour cream sauce, and savory seasonings, served over egg noodles for a classic, hearty meal perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or baby bella mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 8 ounces egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add Aromatics: Add the finely chopped onions to the skillet and sauté them until they become translucent, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Sauté Mushrooms: Add the sliced cremini or baby bella mushrooms to the skillet and cook them until they soften and release their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
- Create the Roux: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the mixture in the skillet. Stir well to coat the ingredients and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Add the Worcestershire sauce, stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Thicken the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the sour cream until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Avoid boiling once the sour cream is added to prevent curdling.
- Season: Season the stroganoff with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
- Serve: Spoon the ground beef stroganoff generously over cooked egg noodles.
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of cremini and shiitake mushrooms.
- To make this dish gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Use low-fat sour cream for a lighter version.
- Egg noodles should be cooked according to package instructions and drained well before serving.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
