Creamy, Easy, and So Comforting

Yesterday I made this Ground Beef Stroganoff for my family, and it was a hit around the table. It tasted so creamy and cozy—like something you’d expect from a fancy restaurant but made right in my kitchen.

Super rich, super satisfying, and done in under 30 minutes. With just a few pantry staples and some ground beef, I had a warm, hearty meal on the table without much effort.

This dish is so simple to throw together, and the result just melts in your mouth! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect dinner after a long day, a comforting weekend lunch, or even as a leftovers lunch for the next day—it’s perfect every time.

I like to enjoy it over soft egg noodles or fluffy mashed potatoes, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and maybe a slice of crusty bread on the side. Some evenings, I make it just for myself with a side salad and a cozy blanket on the couch. This Ground Beef Stroganoff is super easy to make, and it fills your kitchen with the best, warm, delicious smell.

What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a creamy beef and mushroom sauce that’s usually served over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. It’s a simpler twist on the classic Russian dish made with sliced beef, but using ground beef makes it more budget-friendly and quicker to prepare. The sauce is rich and savory with flavors of garlic, onion, and a tangy kick from sour cream. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is actually very simple.

Perfect For:

• Busy Weeknights: It comes together in 30 minutes or less and only needs one pan, making it perfect for after work.
• Family Dinners: Everyone loves this one, even picky eaters! It’s hearty and kid-approved, especially with noodles.
• Meal Prepping: This dish keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it great for lunch the next day.
• Comfort Food Cravings: When you need something creamy, cozy, and filling—this dish hits the spot every time.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1½ cups mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• ½ cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes (for serving)
• Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk or small whisk (for sauce)
• Pot (for noodles, if serving with pasta)

How to make Ground Beef Stroganoff

Step 1:

Over medium heat, cook the ground beef in a large skillet until browned. Drain excess fat if needed and set aside.

Step 2:

In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and mushrooms (if using). Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 3:

Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir until it thickens slightly.

Step 4:

Return the beef to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in sour cream. Heat gently (don’t boil) and season with salt and pepper.

Step 5:

Spoon over cooked egg noodles or your favorite base. Garnish with parsley if you like, and enjoy!

Notes

• Use full-fat sour cream: It gives the sauce a richer flavor and creamier texture without curdling.
• Brown the beef well: Let it cook until slightly crispy—this adds more flavor.
• Don’t rush the onions: Let them soften and sweeten to bring out the best in the dish.
• Add broth slowly: Stir it in a little at a time for a smoother, thicker sauce.
• Let it rest before serving: This helps the flavors settle and the sauce thicken slightly.
• Use wide egg noodles: They soak up the sauce perfectly and hold everything together.
• Season at the end: Taste before serving and adjust with salt or a little splash of Worcestershire.

Optional Ingredients (Get Creative!)

• Mushrooms: Add sliced button or cremini mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
• Frozen peas: Stir them in at the end for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Paprika: A little smoked or sweet paprika adds warmth and depth.
• Dijon mustard: For a subtle tang that balances the creaminess.
• Fresh herbs: Thyme, parsley, or chives bring freshness to the dish.
• Cream cheese: A tablespoon can make the sauce even creamier and more decadent.

What to Pair with Ground Beef Stroganoff?

The best base for this creamy dish is egg noodles—soft, wide, and just perfect for soaking up all that sauce. But rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower mash work beautifully too.

A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness. Add some cherry tomatoes and sliced cucumbers for crunch.

Steamed or roasted green beans, broccoli, or asparagus are great veggie sides that don’t overpower the dish.

Warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls on the side are ideal for mopping up the last of the creamy sauce. No drop should go to waste!

Variations and Substitutions

Use ground turkey or chicken: A lighter version with less fat but still full of flavor. Add a bit of extra seasoning to make up for the milder meat. Great for lean diets.

Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free noodles and thicken the sauce with cornstarch instead of flour. Also make sure your broth and Worcestershire are gluten-free.

Add vegetables: Sautéed zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach go well and stretch the recipe further. It’s a smart way to boost the nutrition.

Go dairy-free: Use plant-based sour cream or coconut milk with lemon juice to mimic the tang. Choose a neutral-flavored dairy-free broth and add a little garlic.

Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or hot sauce for a kick of heat to balance the creaminess. Sriracha or chipotle powder works great.

Use Greek yogurt: Swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed option (just don’t boil it). Add it off the heat to avoid curdling.

Try lentils instead of beef: For a vegetarian version, use cooked lentils with mushrooms and onions—it still tastes hearty and rich. Add soy sauce or miso for umami.

Stretch with pasta: Double the noodles and serve with a lighter spoon of sauce to make it go further without doubling the meat. It’s great for larger families or guests.

How to Store

Let the stroganoff cool completely before storing. Place in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It holds up well and makes a delicious meal prep option.

To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it thickens too much in the fridge, add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it. Avoid boiling once the sour cream is added to prevent curdling.

FAQ

Can I use something other than sour cream?

Yes, you can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese for a different texture and tang. Just avoid boiling after adding it to keep the sauce smooth.

What type of beef works best?

Lean ground beef (85%-90%) works great. You can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.

Do I have to use mushrooms?

Not at all! Mushrooms add flavor and texture, but you can skip them or replace with other veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Wide egg noodles are traditional and soak up the sauce beautifully. But you can use rotini, penne, or even rice or mashed potatoes.

How can I make it spicier?

Add chili flakes, hot sauce, or even cayenne powder to taste. Spicy mustard also gives it a little heat and tang.

Is it gluten-free?

It can be! Just use gluten-free noodles and thicken the sauce with cornstarch instead of flour. Check your broth and Worcestershire for hidden gluten.

What should I do if the sauce is too thick?

Stir in a splash of broth, milk, or water a little at a time until it reaches the consistency you like.

Ground Beef Stroganoff

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

30

minutes

Ground Beef Stroganoff is a creamy, savory comfort dish made with tender ground beef, onions, and a rich sour cream sauce. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and perfect over noodles or mashed potatoes.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1½ cups mushrooms, sliced (optional but recommended)

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• ½ cup sour cream

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes (for serving)

• Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

Directions

• In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add onion and garlic (and mushrooms if using). Cook until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly whisk in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard. Stir until it thickens slightly.
• Return the beef to the skillet. Simmer for 5 minutes, then stir in sour cream. Heat gently (don’t boil) and season with salt and pepper.
• Spoon over cooked egg noodles or your favorite base. Garnish with parsley if you like, and enjoy!