Ground Beef Stroganoff That’s Creamy, Cozy & Easy!
Rich, creamy, and bursting with savory comfort, Ground Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate weeknight dinner with a luxurious twist. This delightful dish features tender ground beef in a velvety mushroom and sour cream sauce, served over tender egg noodles for a stunning finish. It’s the kind of meal that fills the whole house with incredible aromas and draws everyone straight to the dinner table.
Each bite delivers a heavenly combination of textures—savory beef, silky sauce, earthy mushrooms, and perfectly cooked noodles with rich umami, tangy sour cream, and aromatic herb notes. Whether you’re making dinner for busy weeknights or serving at family gatherings, this stroganoff is as easy to make as it is to love. Add your favorite touches like fresh parsley, extra mushrooms, crispy onions, or a dollop of extra sour cream for a colorful, customizable meal that feels like restaurant-quality comfort food.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Budget-friendly elegance: Uses affordable ground beef instead of expensive beef strips for weeknight ease.
- Ready in 30 minutes: From start to finish, dinner is on the table fast—perfect for busy families.
- One-pot simplicity: Minimal cleanup with most cooking done in a single skillet.
- Crowd-pleasing flavor: Classic comfort food that appeals to kids and adults alike.
- Customizable richness: Adjust the creaminess and seasonings to suit any preference.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, Plus Why They Matter)
Before diving into this delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff, having the right tools on hand will make everything smoother—from prep to clean-up.
Essential Tools & Why You Need Them:
Large Deep Skillet or Sauté Pan
This is the MVP of the recipe. It provides enough space to brown beef and simmer the sauce without overcrowding.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Essential for breaking up ground beef and stirring the sauce smoothly.
Large Pot
Perfect for boiling egg noodles while the beef cooks separately.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board
Ideal for slicing mushrooms and chopping onions evenly for consistent cooking.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Best for precise sauce proportions that create the perfect creamy consistency.
Colander
For draining noodles quickly without losing precious pasta to the sink.
Ladle or Large Spoon
Precision matters—especially for serving generous portions without mess.
Having these items prepped and within reach makes the cooking process seamless and safe.
Preparation Tips
- Use 85% lean ground beef for the best flavor—too lean makes it dry, too fatty makes it greasy.
- Don’t skip browning the beef for deeper flavor and better texture throughout.
- Slice mushrooms evenly so they cook at the same rate without some being mushy.
- Have all ingredients prepped before starting—this recipe moves quickly once you begin.
- Use full-fat sour cream for the richest, smoothest sauce that doesn’t curdle.
- Cook noodles al dente since they’ll absorb sauce and continue softening as they sit.
These small touches make a big difference in taste, texture, and presentation.
Ingredients for This Ground Beef Stroganoff
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this comforting, flavor-packed stroganoff to life. Most of the ingredients are simple staples with gourmet results.
For the Stroganoff:
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (white button or cremini)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For Serving:
- 12 oz egg noodles (wide or extra-wide)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for tossing noodles)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Extra sour cream for topping (optional)
Optional Additions:
- Splash of dry white wine
- Fresh thyme or dill
- Crumbled bacon
- Caramelized onions
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crispy fried onions
Everything in this list balances richness and savory depth—the ground beef and mushrooms pair perfectly with the tangy sour cream sauce. The additions are optional but give the stroganoff a personalized, elevated finish.
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the egg noodles and cook according to package directions until al dente, usually 6–8 minutes. Drain in a colander, return to the pot, and toss with 2 tablespoons of butter to prevent sticking. Cover and set aside while you prepare the stroganoff.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Use the spoon to create small crumbles for the best texture. Once browned, transfer the beef to a plate using a slotted spoon, leaving about 1 tablespoon of fat in the pan. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the diced onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and the mushrooms have released their moisture and are golden brown, about 6–8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Build the Sauce Base
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste, stirring constantly. Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps from forming. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Step 5: Simmer and Thicken
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. The sauce should be rich and velvety but still pourable. Return the browned ground beef to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let it simmer together for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Finish with Sour Cream
Remove the skillet from heat and let it cool for 1–2 minutes (this prevents the sour cream from curdling). Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings with additional salt, pepper, or a splash more Worcestershire sauce if needed. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley just before serving.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the beef stroganoff over the buttered egg noodles, or toss everything together in the skillet for a one-pot presentation. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
Noodle Alternatives: Use rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice for different bases.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of sour cream for a dairy-free option.
Leaner Option: Substitute ground turkey or chicken, though beef provides the most authentic flavor.
Make It Richer: Add a splash of heavy cream along with the sour cream for extra decadence.
Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking
- Adding sour cream while boiling: High heat causes sour cream to curdle and separate. Always remove from heat first.
- Overcooking the mushrooms: They become rubbery and lose flavor. Cook until just golden and tender.
- Using too-lean ground beef: 93% or leaner beef results in dry, bland stroganoff. Stick with 85% lean.
- Not browning the beef properly: Gray, steamed beef lacks depth. Brown it well for caramelized flavor.
- Adding flour directly to liquid: This creates lumps. Always coat the vegetables first, then add liquid gradually.
- Overcooking the noodles: Mushy noodles ruin the texture. Cook al dente since they continue softening in the sauce.
- Skipping the Worcestershire sauce: It adds essential umami depth. Don’t leave it out.
- Serving immediately after adding sour cream: Let it rest 2–3 minutes so flavors meld and sauce thickens slightly.
What to Serve With Ground Beef Stroganoff?
This rich, creamy stroganoff is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can create a complete, well-rounded meal. Whether you’re going simple or elaborate, there’s an option for every preference.
8 Delicious Recommendations:
Garlic Bread
Crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy sauce.
Simple Green Salad
A crisp salad with vinaigrette provides freshness and cuts through the richness.
Roasted Green Beans
Lightly seasoned green beans add color and a slight crunch to the plate.
Steamed Broccoli
Tender broccoli florets provide nutritious balance without competing with flavors.
Buttered Peas
Sweet, tender peas add a pop of color and a touch of sweetness.
Pickled Vegetables
Tangy pickles or pickled cucumbers provide acidity that balances the cream.
Crusty Dinner Rolls
Warm, soft rolls are ideal for scooping up sauce and completing the comfort food experience.
Roasted Root Vegetables
Carrots, parsnips, or beets add earthy sweetness and beautiful presentation.
These pairings help round out the meal and bring a restaurant-level feel to your dinner table.
Storage Instructions
Ground Beef Stroganoff stores beautifully—and the flavors actually deepen over time.
How to Store:
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Store noodles separately if possible to prevent them from absorbing too much sauce.
Freezer: Freeze the beef mixture (without noodles) in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.
Room Temperature: Not recommended—dairy-based sauces must be refrigerated within 2 hours for food safety.
Reheating Instructions:
From Refrigerator: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or milk to restore creaminess. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
From Freezer: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop with added liquid as needed.
Microwave Option: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through. Add a tablespoon of milk or broth to keep it creamy.
Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 6 Servings)
Please note this is an approximate breakdown and may vary based on exact ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 4g |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Saturated Fat | 11g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 9g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 95mg |
| Sodium | 580mg |
This hearty meal delivers satisfying comfort—perfect for family dinners and weeknight ease in generous portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the beef mixture up to 2 days ahead and store refrigerated. Reheat gently and cook fresh noodles when ready to serve.
2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely, though beef provides richer flavor. If using turkey, add an extra tablespoon of butter for moisture.
3. Why is my sauce too thin?
Simmer longer to reduce and thicken, or mix 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water and stir in.
4. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, but use full-fat Greek yogurt and remove from heat before adding to prevent curdling.
5. What if I don’t have egg noodles?
Any pasta works—try penne, rotini, or even spaghetti. Rice and mashed potatoes are also excellent alternatives.
6. Can I add vegetables to the stroganoff?
Definitely! Peas, spinach, bell peppers, or carrots work beautifully. Add them with the mushrooms.
7. How do I prevent the sour cream from curdling?
Always remove from heat before adding sour cream, and let the mixture cool slightly. Use full-fat sour cream and stir gently.
8. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown beef and vegetables first, then transfer to slow cooker with broth and seasonings. Cook on low 4–6 hours. Stir in sour cream just before serving.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate combination of weeknight simplicity and incredible comfort—all rolled into one satisfying, soul-warming meal. With its savory beef, earthy mushrooms, and velvety sour cream sauce over tender noodles, it’s everything you love about classic comfort food, made achievable any night of the week.
Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with minimal effort, this stroganoff is as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, with endless variations and side options, you can make it uniquely yours. So grab your skillet and make dinner something everyone looks forwa
