There's nothing quite like the comforting taste of Ground Beef Stroganoff on a chilly evening. This dish combines tender ground beef, hearty pasta, and a creamy, savory sauce that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s quick to prepare and sure to satisfy the whole family.
I first discovered this recipe when I needed a fast, hearty dinner that used pantry staples. What started as a last-minute idea has now become a favorite go-to meal. Let's dive into the details of what makes this recipe so special.
Why You'll Love This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Get ready to embrace a new favorite dinner that's as simple as it is delicious. This Ground Beef Stroganoff delivers classic comfort food vibes with a modern twist.
First off, it's incredibly quick and easy to prepare. The entire dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic weeknights when you’re short on time but still want a hearty, homemade meal.
It’s also budget-friendly. Using ground beef instead of pricier cuts of meat saves money without sacrificing flavor. Paired with basic ingredients like pasta and sour cream, this dish won’t break the bank.
Another reason to love this recipe is its kid-friendly appeal. The creamy sauce and mild flavors make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters. Plus, you can customize it to include hidden veggies like mushrooms or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
Finally, Ground Beef Stroganoff is endlessly versatile. Whether you’re serving it over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even rice, it adapts beautifully to whatever you have on hand.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of Ground Beef Stroganoff lies in its simple, no-fuss ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich, comforting flavor that makes this dish a standout.
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for the best results. It cooks quickly and ensures a flavorful, tender base without too much grease. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.
- Pasta: Egg noodles are the traditional choice, but you can easily use rotini, penne, or even gluten-free options. Their wide, sturdy shape holds the sauce perfectly.
- Sour Cream: This is what gives the sauce its signature creaminess and tang. If you need a lighter version, Greek yogurt works as a great substitute.
- Beef Broth: A key ingredient for the sauce, it adds depth and richness. For a more robust flavor, opt for low-sodium beef stock and season to taste.
- Onions and Garlic: These aromatics build the foundation of flavor for the entire dish. Don’t skip them; they bring everything together.
A large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta are all the equipment you’ll need, making cleanup a breeze.
How to Make This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Creating this delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff is simpler than you think. Let me guide you through each step to ensure a perfect result every time.
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks, ensuring even browning. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat.
Next, add diced onions to the skillet with the cooked ground beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting its aroma infuse the dish.
Sprinkle flour over the beef and onion mixture. Stir well to coat evenly. This step helps to thicken the sauce later. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and the flavors meld.
Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency, reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Mix until fully combined and smooth. Be careful not to let the sauce boil at this stage, as it can cause the sour cream to curdle.
Finally, drain your pasta and fold it into the skillet, ensuring every piece is coated in the creamy sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.
Storage Options
Ground Beef Stroganoff is perfect for leftovers and reheats beautifully, making it a great meal prep option.
For short-term storage, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed.
Avoid freezing with the pasta mixed in, as it can become mushy. Instead, freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh pasta when serving.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe’s versatility is one of its greatest strengths. Here are a few creative ideas to switch things up:
- Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, peas, or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. They pair beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Try Different Proteins: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a new twist on the classic.
- Use a Different Base: Instead of pasta, serve the stroganoff over rice, mashed potatoes, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish a little kick.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use a non-dairy sour cream or cashew cream and ensure your broth is vegan for a dairy-free version that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
No matter how you customize it, this Ground Beef Stroganoff is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this timeless classic!
PrintEasy Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe
This Easy Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe is a quick and delicious dinner option. Made with tender ground beef, creamy sauce, and classic stroganoff flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 30 minutes, this hearty comfort food will be a hit with the whole family!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 oz egg noodles, cooked
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic in the same skillet until softened. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well. Gradually add beef broth, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, sour cream, and cooked ground beef. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Serve over cooked egg noodles. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Notes
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Use gluten-free flour and noodles to make it gluten-free.
- Add a pinch of paprika for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
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