Looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make? This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is the perfect solution! It’s a creamy, flavorful dish made with tender ground beef, mushrooms, and onions, all coated in a rich sour cream sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this stroganoff is a great weeknight dinner option and pairs perfectly with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Let’s dive into this quick and delicious recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a simplified version of the classic Russian beef stroganoff, which typically uses thinly sliced beef strips. In this version, ground beef is used to create a quicker, budget-friendly dish. The beef is cooked with onions, garlic, mushrooms, and then simmered in a creamy, tangy sour cream sauce. It’s often served over egg noodles, but it can also be paired with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a side of vegetables.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff
For the Stroganoff:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (optional, but recommended for added flavor)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 ½ cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Serving:
- Egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Substitutions and Variations
This Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is flexible, so feel free to make adjustments to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Meat Alternatives: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork for a different flavor. You can also make it vegetarian by using a plant-based ground beef substitute.
- Mushroom-Free: If you're not a fan of mushrooms, feel free to omit them. You can add extra onions or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for additional texture and flavor.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour or cornstarch to thicken the sauce, and serve over gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap out the sour cream for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or a plant-based sour cream. Use olive oil instead of butter.
- Rich Flavor Additions: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or substitute some of the beef broth with red wine.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s how to make Ground Beef Stroganoff in a few simple steps:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms (if using). Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and the mushrooms are golden brown. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. - Stir in the Flour and Seasoning:
Sprinkle the flour and paprika over the onion and mushroom mixture, stirring to coat. This helps thicken the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. - Add the Broth and Mustard:
Slowly pour in the beef broth while stirring to combine. Add the Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 3-5 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken. - Stir in the Ground Beef and Sour Cream:
Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Serve:
Once the stroganoff is ready, spoon it over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Cook Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by browning the ground beef in a large skillet. Breaking it up as it cooks helps ensure even browning. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy sauce. - Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
After browning the beef, sauté the onions and mushrooms (if using) until softened and lightly browned. This adds depth and richness to the final dish. - Step 3: Create the Sauce
Stir the flour into the sautéed onions and mushrooms to create a roux, which will help thicken the sauce. Slowly add the beef broth while stirring to create a smooth, creamy sauce base. - Step 4: Add Sour Cream
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the sour cream for a rich, tangy flavor. Be sure to reduce the heat before adding the sour cream to prevent curdling. - Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the browned ground beef to the sauce, mix everything together, and serve over your preferred base, such as egg noodles or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Beef: Ground beef cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. Browning the beef should take about 5-7 minutes over medium heat.
- Curdling the Sour Cream: Make sure to reduce the heat before adding the sour cream. Adding it to a very hot pan can cause it to curdle and separate, resulting in a lumpy sauce.
- Not Thickening the Sauce: Be sure to cook the flour for 1-2 minutes before adding the broth. This helps thicken the sauce and prevents a raw flour taste.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Ground Beef Stroganoff is best served hot and creamy. Here are some ways to elevate your presentation:
- Serve Over Egg Noodles: Traditional stroganoff is served over egg noodles, but you can also pair it with mashed potatoes or rice for a comforting meal.
- Garnish with Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
- Add a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stroganoff and adds a refreshing contrast.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Family-Style: Serve the stroganoff directly from the skillet at the table, alongside a bowl of egg noodles or mashed potatoes, so everyone can help themselves.
- Individual Portions: Plate individual servings of stroganoff over a bed of noodles or rice. Garnish each plate with a little fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of paprika for added color.
- As a Make-Ahead Meal: Ground beef stroganoff reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container and enjoy throughout the week.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Skillet Serve: Serve the stroganoff directly from a cast-iron skillet for a rustic, family-style meal.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding a sprinkling of fresh parsley or thyme not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color to the dish.
- Serve with Sides: Complement the richness of the stroganoff by serving it with sides like steamed green beans, sautéed spinach, or a light cucumber salad.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tips
- Make it Ahead: Ground beef stroganoff is great for meal prepping. Prepare it up to 2 days in advance, then store it in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop when ready to serve.
- Leftovers: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to thin out the sauce as needed.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can freeze ground beef stroganoff for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make ground beef stroganoff gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch, and serve the stroganoff over gluten-free noodles, rice, or potatoes.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Yes, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the dish and add a slightly tangier flavor. Just be sure to reduce the heat before adding it to prevent curdling.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the stroganoff for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe is a quick and easy version of a
classic comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With tender ground beef, mushrooms, and onions in a creamy sour cream sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and can be made in under 30 minutes. Whether you serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, this hearty meal is sure to satisfy the whole family. So gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy a delicious, comforting dinner tonight!
PrintGround Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Ground beef stroganoff is a quick, easy, and budget-friendly version of the classic dish. Tender ground beef is cooked with onions, mushrooms, and garlic in a creamy, savory sauce made with sour cream and beef broth. Ready in just 30 minutes, this simple recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners and can be served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting, delicious meal the whole family will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Onion (chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Mushrooms (sliced)
- Beef broth
- Sour cream
- Worcestershire sauce
- Dijon mustard
- Flour (for thickening)
- Butter
- Egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Slowly add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Stir and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in sour cream. Simmer for 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve over egg noodles and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken in place of beef.
- You can add extra vegetables like peas or spinach for more nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
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