Ground Beef Stroganoff

Name: Ground Beef Stroganoff
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup sour cream; 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 oz egg noodles; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stroganoff because it’s a comforting dish that brings back wonderful memories of family dinners. The creamy sauce paired with tender beef and mushrooms coats the noodles perfectly, creating a rich and satisfying meal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this recipe is one I come back to time and again. Plus, it's quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal when I want to impress without spending all day in the kitchen.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:47:34.942Z

When I first tried cooking Ground Beef Stroganoff, I wanted to recreate the luscious dish I had at my favorite diner. My secret was using a mix of fresh mushrooms and a splash of Worcestershire sauce, which created a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. The aroma that filled my kitchen took me right back to those cozy diner days.

One tip that I discovered is to cook the beef just until browned; overcooking makes it tough. I also love adding a dollop of sour cream right before serving, which elevates the dish’s creaminess and adds a tangy finish. It’s an absolute winner every time!

Reasons You'll Love Ground Beef Stroganoff
Creamy sauce that brings comfort to your dinner table
Quick and easy recipe perfect for weeknight meals
Rich flavors that the whole family will enjoy

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Stroganoff

One of the key techniques for achieving a rich flavor in your Ground Beef Stroganoff is to properly brown the ground beef. This not only enhances the dish's overall taste but also gives it a beautiful color. Cook the beef over medium heat and allow it to sit in one spot for a few moments before breaking it apart. This helps develop a nice sear. Aim for a deep golden brown before proceeding to the next step, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

When sautéing the onions and garlic, it’s important to not rush this step. Cooking them until the onions are translucent (approximately 3 minutes) adds a depth of sweetness to your dish. If you find the garlic starts to brown too quickly, simply lower the heat to avoid a bitter taste. Adding the mushrooms after the onions ensures they cook properly without releasing too much moisture, preventing your stroganoff from turning watery.

Ingredient Roles and Flavor Balance

The creamy texture of this Stroganoff primarily comes from the sour cream, which not only provides richness but also a slight tang that balances the dish's flavors. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream; just be sure to add it off the heat to prevent curdling. The Worcestershire sauce is another essential element, adding depth and umami. It’s crucial not to skip this ingredient, as it ties all the flavors together, making the dish more complex and enjoyable.

For an even heartier meal, consider incorporating additional vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers. These not only enhance the nutrition but also add color and texture. If you're cooking for a crowd or want leftovers, this recipe easily doubles—just make sure you have a larger skillet or divide the cooking into batches to ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare a delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 cup beef broth
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz egg noodles
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Ensure everything is ready before you start cooking for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a mouthwatering Ground Beef Stroganoff:

Cook the Noodles

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

Sauté Vegetables

To the skillet with beef, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 4 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Sprinkle the flour into the skillet and stir to combine. Slowly pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.

Finish the Dish

Remove from heat and mix in the sour cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Combine the sauce with the cooked noodles.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff!

Serving immediately will ensure the dish stays creamy and delicious!

Pro Tips

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce just before adding the sour cream. It adds a delightful complexity!

Storage and Reheating Tips

Once you’ve enjoyed your Ground Beef Stroganoff, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent the sauce from separating. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, feel free to add a splash of beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

For long-term storage, you can freeze the Stroganoff for up to 2 months. It’s best to freeze it without the noodles, as they can turn mushy upon thawing. Simply transfer the cooled sauce to freezer-safe containers, ensuring to leave some space for expansion. When ready to enjoy again, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding the noodles freshly cooked for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Ground Beef Stroganoff is luscious on its own, but there are plenty of ways to elevate your serving experience. Serve it over a bed of fresh egg noodles or switch it up with mashed potatoes for a comforting twist. A side of steamed broccoli or green beans can provide a nice crunch and balance the creaminess of the dish.

For added brightness and flavor, sprinkle a little extra fresh parsley on top before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a fresh note that complements the rich sauce. You can also experiment with different herbs, like thyme or dill, to create variations based on your personal preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Absolutely! You can replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead and reheat gently before adding the noodles.

→ What can I serve with Ground Beef Stroganoff?

It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.