Ground Beef Stroganoff is a savory and creamy dish that combines tender ground beef, mushrooms, and a flavorful sauce served over egg noodles or rice. This hearty recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner that will become a staple in your meal rotation. With a few simple ingredients, you can have this delicious, comforting meal ready in less than 30 minutes. Stick around to discover the ultimate Ground Beef Stroganoff recipe, cooking tips, and ways to serve it like a pro!
What is Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a variation of the traditional Russian dish, Beef Stroganoff, which typically uses thin strips of beef cooked in a sour cream-based sauce. In this version, ground beef is used instead of sliced beef, making the dish more affordable, quicker to prepare, and equally delicious. The rich sauce, made with sour cream, mushrooms, onions, and beef broth, complements the juicy ground beef perfectly. Paired with tender egg noodles or mashed potatoes, it’s comfort food at its best.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff
To make Ground Beef Stroganoff, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground Beef: 1 pound (use lean beef for a less greasy dish)
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Mushrooms: 8 oz, sliced (white or cremini work well)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Flour: 2 tablespoons (to thicken the sauce)
- Beef Broth: 2 cups
- Sour Cream: 1 cup (full-fat or reduced-fat)
- Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (optional for added flavor)
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Egg Noodles: 12 oz, cooked according to package instructions
- Parsley: for garnish (optional)
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Stroganoff Sauce
The sauce is what makes this dish so special. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need for the sauce:
- Butter and Flour: To create a roux, which will thicken the sauce.
- Beef Broth: For a deep, savory base.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a touch of tang.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A little bit adds depth to the flavor.
- Dijon Mustard: Optional, but recommended for a slight kick and extra richness.
Substitutions and Variations
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You may need to adjust the seasonings since these meats have a milder flavor.
- Vegan or Vegetarian: Use plant-based ground meat alternatives or replace the meat with extra mushrooms, lentils, or tofu. You can also use a vegan butter substitute, vegetable broth, and dairy-free sour cream for a vegan version.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce. Ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free as well.
- Mushroom-Free: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can leave them out or replace them with bell peppers or zucchini for added texture.
- Low Carb/Keto: Instead of serving the stroganoff over noodles, try serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

- Cook the Egg Noodles: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked beef aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and browned.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom and onion mixture, stirring well to combine. Cook for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste. Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes.
- Add the Beef and Sour Cream: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), and sour cream. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is creamy and everything is heated through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Serve: Spoon the Ground Beef Stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Cook Ground Beef Stroganoff: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Base: Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic to build flavor.
- Develop the Sauce: Sauté the mushrooms and create a roux with butter and flour. Add broth and simmer to thicken.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the beef back in, add seasonings, and stir in sour cream for that classic creamy texture.
- Serve Hot: Over noodles, rice, or potatoes, this dish is best enjoyed immediately while still warm and fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Ground Beef: Cooking ground beef for too long can make it dry and tough. Cook just until browned and drain any excess fat.
- Curdling the Sour Cream: To prevent sour cream from curdling, ensure the sauce is not boiling when you add it. Stir it in at the end over low heat.
- Not Seasoning Enough: Ground beef needs a good amount of seasoning. Don’t forget to taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Skipping the Roux: The butter and flour roux is essential to creating a thick, rich sauce. Don’t skip this step or the sauce may turn out too watery.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a homey dish, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it look appealing! Here are some ideas to elevate the presentation:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
- Use a Wide Bowl: Serve the stroganoff in wide, shallow bowls, which are perfect for showcasing the creamy sauce over a bed of noodles.
- Add a Side Salad: Serve with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the stroganoff.
- Top with Crispy Onions: For extra crunch and flavor, sprinkle some crispy fried onions on top before serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef Stroganoff
Ground Beef Stroganoff pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Egg Noodles: The classic choice. Their wide, flat shape holds onto the sauce beautifully.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve the stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes.
- Rice: A simple side of steamed white or brown rice will soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted carrots, broccoli, or green beans for a complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Stroganoff
- Rustic Look: Keep it simple with a rustic presentation in a cast-iron skillet or a large serving bowl.
- Individual Portions: For a more formal dinner, serve the stroganoff in individual bowls with a garnish of fresh herbs and a side of buttered bread.
- Family Style: Serve the stroganoff in a large serving dish with the noodles and sauce side by side, allowing guests to mix and serve themselves.
Ground Beef Stroganoff Recipe Tips
- Make Ahead: Ground Beef Stroganoff reheats well, so it’s perfect for meal prep. Just store the beef mixture separately from the noodles, and combine when ready to eat.
- Freezing: You can freeze the beef and sauce for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, stirring in extra broth or sour cream if needed.
- Boost Flavor: Add a splash of white wine when sautéing the onions for a more complex flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Ground Beef Stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a little extra broth or sour cream if necessary to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture.
Can I freeze Ground Beef Stroganoff?
Yes, the beef and sauce can be frozen for up to three months. However, it’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the noodles. Reheat gently on the stove and combine with freshly cooked noodles.
How can I prevent the sour cream from curdling?
To avoid curdling, make sure to add the sour cream at the end, over low heat, and never allow the sauce to boil after adding it.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you’re out of sour cream, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or crème fraîche for a similar creamy consistency.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Stroganoff is a classic, comforting dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal to share with family and friends, this recipe has you covered. With a rich and creamy sauce, tender ground beef, and a variety of serving options, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal!
PrintGround Beef Stroganoff Recipe
This ground beef stroganoff recipe features tender beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce, perfect for a hearty and easy weeknight meal. Keywords: ground beef stroganoff, creamy stroganoff, easy beef recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp flour
- ½ cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Egg noodles or rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and garlic, cook until softened.
- Stir in mushrooms and cook until tender.
- Sprinkle in flour, stir to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve over cooked egg noodles or rice.
Notes
For added flavor, use a dash of paprika or fresh parsley as garnish. Can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590 mg
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