Ground Beef Stroganoff is a quick, hearty, and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting meal that comes together effortlessly. This dish combines tender ground beef, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious creamy sauce, all served over a bed of egg noodles or rice. It’s a modern twist on the classic Russian Stroganoff, which traditionally uses strips of beef. The best part? This version is budget-friendly and requires minimal prep, making it ideal for families and anyone looking to whip up a delicious homemade dinner in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Stroganoff:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or leaner for less grease)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if using lean ground beef)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces cremini or white mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional but adds depth)
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat for creaminess or light for a healthier option)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- 12 ounces egg noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles
Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the egg noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, tossing with a little butter or olive oil to prevent sticking. - Brown the Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles with a wooden spoon. If using lean ground beef, add a tablespoon of olive oil for extra moisture. Once fully cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and tender. - Make the Sauce
Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to coat evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika, then bring the sauce to a simmer. - Combine Beef and Sauce
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir well to combine and let the mixture simmer for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. - Finish with Sour Cream
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Heat through but do not boil, as boiling can cause the sour cream to curdle. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. - Serve and Garnish
Serve the ground beef stroganoff over cooked egg noodles. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Beef
For the best flavor, use 80/20 ground beef. If you prefer less grease, opt for lean ground beef but add a touch of olive oil to prevent dryness. - Enhance the Mushrooms
If you’re a mushroom lover, use a mix of cremini, shiitake, and portobello mushrooms for added depth. - Thicken the Sauce
If the sauce feels too thin, let it simmer a bit longer or add a slurry made from 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water. - Keep the Sour Cream Creamy
Stir the sour cream in at the very end and on low heat to prevent curdling.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover stroganoff in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezer: Freeze the sauce (without the noodles) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations
- Low-Carb Version
Swap the egg noodles for zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash. - Vegetarian Option
Substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. - Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and serve over gluten-free noodles or rice. - Add Vegetables
Incorporate bell peppers, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition and color.
Nutrition Details (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fiber: 2g
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Cook the noodles fresh for the best texture.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works well as a healthier substitute, but it may slightly alter the taste.
What’s the best way to reheat stroganoff?
Reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken is a great alternative for a lighter version.
What sides go well with Ground Beef Stroganoff?
A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread are excellent sides to balance the meal.