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 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 cup sour cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 8 oz egg noodles

Highlighted under: Comfort Favorites

I absolutely love making Ground Beef Stroganoff whenever I want something comforting and savory. This dish reminds me of childhood family dinners, where the flavors of tender beef mixed in a creamy sauce over egg noodles took center stage. The best part is how quickly it comes together, making it perfect for weeknight meals. There’s something about the herbs and spices blending together that just warms my soul, and I know you’ll feel the same when you try it.

Created by

Elodie Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-01-24T14:13:35.181Z

When I first attempted to make Ground Beef Stroganoff, it felt daunting. I was concerned about balancing the flavors, but I quickly learned that a good sear on the beef combined with the sautéed onions packs a flavorful punch. I've found that adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce truly elevates the umami flavor of the sauce.

One of my favorite tips is to make sure to let the beef rest for a few minutes after cooking before you slice it. This keeps every bite juicy and tender. Serve it over wide egg noodles or a bed of rice for a deliciously simple meal that brings warmth to any table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that clings to the noodles perfectly
Hearty ground beef that makes each bite satisfying
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of ground beef plays a significant role in the flavor of your Stroganoff. I recommend using a ground beef that has a moderate fat content, around 80/20, as it provides enough fat to build flavor without being overly greasy. This fat renders down during cooking, enriching the sauce with a savory depth that pairs beautifully with the creamy sour cream and beef broth.

Mushrooms add an earthy note to the dish, enhancing the overall umami flavor. When selecting mushrooms, fresh cremini or button mushrooms are excellent options for their meaty texture and mild taste. Be sure to slice them uniformly to ensure they cook evenly, developing a nice golden-brown color that adds both flavor and visual appeal to your Stroganoff.

Perfecting Your Technique

When browning the ground beef, it's crucial to allow it to form a nice sear. Heating the oil until it's shimmering before adding the beef will help achieve this. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause steaming instead of browning. If your pan seems too crowded, consider cooking in batches to ensure maximum flavor development.

For the sauce, stirring in the sour cream off the heat prevents it from curdling and maintains a creamy texture. A helpful tip is to take a ladleful of the hot broth to temper the sour cream before adding it to the skillet. This technique gradually warms the sour cream, creating a cohesive sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

For the Stroganoff

1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup beef broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
8 oz egg noodles

Instructions

Cook the noodles

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

Brown the beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.

Sauté the vegetables

Add chopped onions, garlic, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes.

Make the sauce

Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes, then stir in the sour cream, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Combine and serve

Toss the cooked noodles with the beef mixture until well coated. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Ground Beef Stroganoff!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce. Also, if you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a little cornstarch with water and stir it in while simmering.

Make-Ahead and Storage

Ground Beef Stroganoff is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can cook the beef and mushroom mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

If you want to freeze the Stroganoff, I suggest freezing the beef mixture separately from the noodles. Store the beef in an airtight container for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and quickly reheat it while cooking fresh noodles.

Variations and Serving Suggestions

For a lighter version, consider using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. These lean meats will still yield delicious results when cooked with the same spices and sauces, though you might want to add a touch more olive oil to maintain richness. Additionally, experimenting with different types of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, can add unique flavors to the dish.

In terms of serving, Ground Beef Stroganoff pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to brighten the plate. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, can elevate the dish, adding color and freshness that balances the rich sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Chicken or turkey can be substituted for ground beef; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Can this dish be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Stroganoff ahead and reheat it when ready to serve. The flavors will meld beautifully!

→ Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes! Ground Beef Stroganoff can be stored in an airtight container and frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with Stroganoff?

It's typically served over egg noodles, but it also pairs well with rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.