There’s a certain joy that fills the kitchen when the aromas of a homemade meal start to waft through the air. Just the thought of silky egg noodles coated in a creamy, savory sauce makes my heart race. I quickly learned that Ground Beef Stroganoff is my go-to for those evenings when I want comfort without spending hours in the kitchen.
After a long day, I can have this satisfying dish on the table in just over 30 minutes. Tender chunks of beef meld perfectly with sautéed mushrooms and a luscious sauce that clings to every noodle. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a laid-back weeknight meal, this dish checks all the boxes—delicious, easy to prepare, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the recipe that has become a staple in my home, bringing a taste of warmth and nostalgia to every bite.
Why is Ground Beef Stroganoff a Must-Try?
Quick and Easy: This recipe makes delicious comfort food that’s ready in just over 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Indulgence: Silky egg noodles are enveloped in a rich, savory sauce that elevates your dining experience.
Family-Friendly: The tender beef and mushrooms create a dish that even picky eaters will love!
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, or add in some veggies for extra goodness.
Crowd-Pleasing: Your guests will rave about this classic creation, making it an ideal choice for casual get-togethers or cozy family dinners.
Discover more comforting meals by checking out my delightful collection of easy weeknight recipes.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Ingredients
• A cozy dish starts with the right ingredients!
For the Sauce
- Butter – Essential for creating a smooth roux that thickens your sauce.
- Flour – Thickens the sauce beautifully; gluten-free flour can be used if preferred.
- Beef Broth – This rich base infuses incredible flavor; homemade or canned works.
- Worcestershire Sauce – Enhances umami richness; soy sauce can be a substitute.
- Dijon Mustard – Adds a tangy kick to the sauce; yellow mustard is a viable substitute.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Season to taste for a balanced flavor profile.
- Sour Cream – Creates that creamy texture in your sauce; Greek yogurt is a low-fat alternative.
For the Noodles
- Egg Noodles – The perfect base for this dish; try rotini or fusilli for a fun twist.
For the Meat & Veggies
- Ground Beef – The star protein that delivers rich flavor; ground turkey or chicken are lighter options.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing aromatics; vegetable oil can be an alternative.
- Onion – Adds depth and sweetness; shallots can give a milder taste.
- Garlic – Infuses aromatic goodness; freshly minced garlic works best.
- Mushrooms – Contributes umami and texture; replace with cremini or portobello for added depth.
For Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color; can be omitted if not available.
Cook up a delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff that’s sure to impress!
How to Make Ground Beef Stroganoff
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Boil Pasta: Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the egg noodles until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and toss with a bit of butter to keep them from sticking together.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
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Cook Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
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Add Mushrooms: Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes, until they are softened and have released their moisture.
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Make Roux: Push the mixture to one side of the skillet. In the empty side, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Let it cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
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Create Sauce: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, incorporating it with the meat mixture. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Finish with Cream: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream until smooth and creamy.
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Combine & Serve: Toss the cooked noodles with the sauce until well-coated, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.
Optional: Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Complete your comforting meal experience with delightful sides that complement the rich flavors of your stroganoff.
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Crisp Green Salad: Fresh greens with a light vinaigrette brighten your plate and add a refreshing crunch. The acidity of the dressing balances the creamy richness of the sauce beautifully.
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Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant veggie adds a nutritious touch and a pop of color. The slight bitterness of broccoli enhances the savory notes of the ground beef, making each bite even more satisfying.
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Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery, and garlic-laden, this classic pairing is perfect for sopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce. The crispy crust contrasts delightfully with the creamy noodles, creating a textural harmony.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal vegetables, such as carrots and bell peppers, provide a lovely sweet undertone that complements the savory beef. They bring a warm, earthy flavor to the meal, rounding out your plate perfectly.
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Herb Rice: Fluffy rice infused with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme enhances the dish, offering a lighter alternative to pasta. The subtle flavors transport you to comforting family dinners, creating a satisfying experience.
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Classic Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like a Merlot, elevates your dining experience. Its fruity notes intertwine beautifully with the umami of the beef, making the meal come alive.
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Chocolate Mousse: End your delicious meal on a sweet note with a rich, creamy chocolate mousse. The dessert’s luxurious texture contrasts the hearty stroganoff, leaving everyone delightfully satisfied.
Each option invites warmth and flavor to your table, creating a memorable dining experience. Enjoy every moment!
How to Store and Freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the flavors stay intact and keeps the beef tender.
- Freezer: You can freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore creaminess.
- No Refreezing: Avoid refreezing after reheating to maintain the dish’s quality and safety.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you make this comforting dish uniquely yours!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute sour cream with coconut cream for a creamy, non-dairy alternative that adds a hint of sweetness.
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Vegetarian: Swap out ground beef for lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth in place of beef broth for a hearty, meat-free option.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an unexpected heat that will warm you up!
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Herbal Infusion: Stir in fresh dill or thyme before serving to elevate the flavor profile and add a fragrant touch.
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Mushroom Mix: Use a blend of wild mushrooms for an earthy flavor that enhances the dish and adds delightful textural contrast.
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Creamy Spin: Incorporate cream cheese along with sour cream for a richer, velvety sauce that will make each bite irresistibly smooth.
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Casserole Twist: Transform your leftovers into a baked casserole by layering the stroganoff with noodles and cheese, then bake until golden and bubbly.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for a crunch that complements the creamy texture, adding a delightful contrast!
Expert Tips for Ground Beef Stroganoff
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Choose the Right Beef: Use fresh ground beef, preferably 80/20 for a balance between flavor and fat. This ensures a juicy and tender dish.
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Don’t Rush the Roux: Cooking the roux long enough prevents a gritty texture and enhances the sauce’s flavor. Aim for a light golden color.
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Control the Seasonings: Store-bought broth can vary in saltiness, so taste before adding more salt. You can always sprinkle more later, but it’s hard to fix over-salting.
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Simmer for Thickness: For a heartier sauce, let it simmer uncovered for extra minutes. This allows for evaporation, resulting in a beautifully thick sauce.
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Experiment with Noodles: While egg noodles are classic, don’t be afraid to try other pasta types like rotini or whole wheat for a twist on this Ground Beef Stroganoff.
Make Ahead Options
These Ground Beef Stroganoff preparations are ideal for busy cooks looking to save time! You can make the beef and mushroom sauce up to 3 days in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of adding the sour cream, then let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating. The cooked noodles can also be prepared in advance; toss them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce over medium heat, stirring in the sour cream, and then combine with the noodles. With these preparations, you’ll enjoy a comforting meal that’s just as delicious and stress-free as preparing it fresh!
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe FAQs
What type of mushrooms should I use?
You can use button mushrooms for a classic flavor, but I often recommend cremini or portobello for a richer, deeper taste. Just slice them thinly and sauté until softened—they add great texture and umami!
How long can I store leftover Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the dish fresh and ready to enjoy again without losing flavor.
Can I freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the stroganoff cool completely. Then, transfer it into freezer-safe bags or containers, ensuring you remove excess air. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth or water to restore its creamy texture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin?
If your sauce turns out too thin, don’t worry! Simply continue simmering it uncovered for a few extra minutes, which will allow some moisture to evaporate and thicken the sauce. If you need an immediate fix, you can mix in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water) and cook for a couple more minutes until it thickens.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Certainly! If you’re looking to make a healthier version, consider using lean ground turkey or chicken. For those avoiding gluten, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free alternative. Just keep an eye on the cooking process; the roux will still need to achieve that lovely golden color!
Is this dish safe for my pets?
It’s best to keep Ground Beef Stroganoff away from pets. Ingredients like garlic and onions are toxic to dogs and cats, so always create a pet-friendly meal for your furry friends instead!
Heavenly Ground Beef Stroganoff for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the egg noodles until al dente, about 6-8 minutes. Drain and toss with a bit of butter to keep them from sticking together.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes, until they are softened and have released their moisture.
- Push the mixture to one side of the skillet. In the empty side, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Let it cook for about 1 minute until bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, incorporating it with the meat mixture. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- Toss the cooked noodles with the sauce until well-coated, garnishing with fresh parsley if desired.