Ultimate Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe – A Creamy & Comforting Classic

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Introduction

If you’re craving a rich, creamy, and ultra-satisfying dish, this Ground Beef Stroganoff is the perfect recipe. A twist on the traditional Russian Beef Stroganoff, this version uses ground beef instead of steak, making it a quick and budget-friendly dinner option.

This dish is packed with savory flavors, featuring juicy ground beef, tender mushrooms, and a luscious sour cream sauce. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. Serve it over buttery egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort food experience.

➡️ Want to learn more about the history of Stroganoff? Check out this authentic Russian Beef Stroganoff recipe to see how the dish originated!

Ingredients

For the Stroganoff:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (80/20 blend for extra flavor)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, sliced (white or cremini)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 ½ cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • ½ cup sour cream (full-fat for creaminess)
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option)
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried thyme

For Serving:

  • 12 oz egg noodles (or substitute with rice, mashed potatoes, or zucchini noodles)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain, toss with a bit of butter (optional), and set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes), breaking it apart with a spatula.
  3. Once fully cooked, drain excess grease if necessary and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics & Mushrooms

  1. In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft (about 3 minutes).
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and become golden brown (about 5 minutes).

Step 4: Build the Stroganoff Sauce

  1. Sprinkle 1 tbsp flour over the mushroom mixture and stir well to coat.
  2. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard, stirring constantly.
  3. Bring to a gentle simmer, letting the sauce thicken for about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Step 5: Combine & Finish the Dish

  1. Return the cooked ground beef to the pan and stir well.
  2. Lower the heat and mix in sour cream until fully incorporated.
  3. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, but do not boil (to prevent curdling).

Step 6: Serve & Garnish

  1. Spoon the creamy Ground Beef Stroganoff over egg noodles.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley for added freshness.
  3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 4–5
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations & Substitutions

  • Gluten-Free Option: Use cornstarch instead of flour and serve over gluten-free pasta or rice.
  • Low-Carb Option: Swap noodles for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
  • Extra Creamy: Add ½ cup heavy cream for a silkier sauce.
  • Spicy Kick: Mix in ¼ tsp red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Healthier Alternative: Use ground turkey instead of beef and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Storage & Reheating

Storing Leftovers:

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating Instructions:

  • Stovetop: Heat in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if needed.
  • Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
  • Freezing: Freeze without noodles for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the stroganoff sauce and store it in the fridge. Reheat and add fresh-cooked noodles when ready to serve.

2. What type of ground beef works best?

Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner meat (90/10) works but may be drier.

3. Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?

Absolutely! Greek yogurt adds a tangy flavor and is a great lower-fat alternative.

4. What can I serve this with besides egg noodles?

It pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

5. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute sour cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free sour cream alternative.

6. How do I prevent the sour cream from curdling?

Ensure the heat is low when adding sour cream and avoid boiling the sauce.

7. Can I use canned mushrooms?

Fresh mushrooms are best, but drained canned mushrooms can be used in a pinch.

8. Is Worcestershire sauce necessary?

It adds depth, but if unavailable, use soy sauce or balsamic vinegar as a substitute.

9. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add everything (except sour cream) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4–6 hours. Stir in sour cream before serving.

10. What wine pairs well with this dish?

A glass of Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Chardonnay complements the creamy, savory flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef Stroganoff is the ultimate comfort food—quick, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re serving it over classic egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, it’s sure to be a family favorite. With just 30 minutes of cooking time, it’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights!

Give this recipe a try and let me know in the comments—what’s your favorite way to serve Stroganoff? 🍽️😋

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